With the rise of AI and automated predictive tools, many wonder whether on-site assessments are still necessary for Wi-Fi planning. This article explores the differences between on-site assessments, predictive surveys, and hybrid approaches.
On-Site Assessment
An on-site assessment involves a physical evaluation of the location to determine the optimal placement of access points (APs). This method ensures the most accurate data collection by considering real-world conditions.
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Passive Site Survey:
- Conducted in a fully furnished or nearly completed building.
- Requires installed APs.
- The surveyor walks through the entire building, including perimeters, collecting data on signal strength.
- This method captures the real impact of physical obstructions and external networks.
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AP on a Stick:
- It involves temporarily mounting APs to simulate their placement.
- The surveyor conducts detailed walkthroughs to measure coverage areas and capture edge data.
- Data collected is used to accurately model the impact of walls and furniture on signal strength.
- Experienced engineers may take additional notes and pictures of IDF (Intermediate Distribution Frame) closets and areas of concern, enhancing the accuracy of the final plan.
Predictive Survey
A predictive survey uses software tools like Sidos Cloud to estimate AP placement and performance based on provided environmental data. This method is more cost-effective but less accurate compared to on-site assessments.
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Data Collection:
- Requires detailed information about wall types (drywall, plaster, brick, etc.), furniture types, and locations.
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Software Analysis:
- Tools like Sidos Cloud provide an initial predictive model of Wi-Fi coverage.
- Manual AP placement by an experienced engineer is required to get the most accurate predictive model.
Hybrid Assessment
A hybrid assessment combines on-site and predictive survey methods to balance accuracy and cost. This approach leverages on-site data collection and remote analysis.
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Pre-Assessment Walkthrough:
- An on-site individual, equipped with tools like the Sidos Wave measurement device, capture RF signals.
- Specific instructions are provided on where to walk and how to capture data.
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Data Analysis:
- A trained Wi-Fi professional analyzes the collected data to make educated assumptions about the environment.
- This method provides a more accurate prediction than a purely predictive survey, considering measured figures for better extrapolation.
- Sidos AI can enhance the accuracy for wall calibration, filling in of areas that were non-accessible during a survey, among other use cases.
- What-if modeling using Sidos AI provides real-time visualizations to help model changes, fixes and adjustments in the environment.
Comparison and Considerations
On-Site Assessment
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Advantages:
- Most accurate data collection, considering real-world reflections and obstructions.
- Allows for detailed notes and visual documentation of the environment.
- Provides the most reliable foundation for Wi-Fi deployment plans.
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Disadvantages:
- Time-consuming and expensive due to travel and labor costs.
Predictive Survey
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Advantages:
- Cost-effective and faster to conduct.
- Useful for creating initial budgetary lists and prompting discussions about infrastructure needs.
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Disadvantages:
- Less accurate, relying heavily on the quality of provided data and the engineer's experience.
- Essentially a well-informed guess rather than a precise plan.
Hybrid Assessment
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Advantages:
- Balances cost and accuracy, providing more reliable results than a purely predictive survey.
- Trains less experienced individuals in Wi-Fi planning through hands-on data collection and analysis.
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Disadvantages:
- Still involves some level of guesswork, though based on measured data.
Conclusion
Choosing the right assessment method depends on your specific needs and resources. On-site assessments offer the highest accuracy but at a higher cost. Predictive surveys are more budget-friendly but less precise. Hybrid assessments provide a balanced approach, combining the strengths of both methods.
For most scenarios, a hybrid assessment is the recommended approach, offering a fair compromise between cost and accuracy. This method leverages on-site data collection and remote analysis to create a reliable Wi-Fi deployment plan, ensuring robust network performance.
By understanding each method's strengths and limitations, you can make informed decisions that best suit your environment and budget, ultimately ensuring a successful Wi-Fi deployment.