Wireless Network Installation

"The barcoding industry has pioneered the use of wireless data networks since the 1970's. We install wireless networks not only for barcode scanners and mobile computers, but also for desktop computers, and Voice over IP (VoIP) systems." - Jay Steinmetz, President

Wireless (RF) Site Survey

When considering the use of wireless networks, it is extremely difficult to predict the propagation of radio waves and detect the presence of interfering signals without the use of specialized test equipment. Even if your installation includes omni-directional antennas, radio waves do not travel the same distance in all directions. Walls, doors, elevator shafts, people, and other obstacles offer varying degrees of attenuation, which cause the radio frequency (RF) radiation pattern to be irregular and unpredictable. As a result, one should have an RF site survey performed to understand fully the behavior of radio waves within a facility before installing any wireless devices.

The goal of an RF site survey is to gather enough information and data to determine the number and placement of access points that will provide optimal wireless network coverage. That usually means the support of a minimum data rate in a given area. An RF site survey will also detect the presence of radio interference coming from other sources that could degrade the performance of the wireless LAN.

The need and complexity of an RF site survey will vary depending on the size of the facility and the work that is to be accomplished. A site survey is a good idea for the use of any wireless device because without a survey, users could end up with inadequate coverage and suffer from low performance in some areas. The purchase of wireless equipment is no small expenditure, so it is best not to leave any portion of the project up to chance.

For more information about site surveys, contact Barcoding Inc.

On-Site Network Analysis

On-site wireless analysis services can determine if wireless networking is a viable option for the location or can provide troubleshooting for problems with existing wireless networks. Common problems include lack of communication between mobile units and handhelds, or dead spots where the radios fail to work. Barcoding Inc. will send a certified network engineer with all the test equipment necessary to evaluate or troubleshoot your situation.

Installation of Equipment

The installation phase is the most physically demanding phase of the project. Using the site survey report, the installation should be a smooth process. The access points and antennas will be installed in the facility using the marked up drawing made after the site survey. Usually, the higher the access points and antennas are mounted, the better the signal will propagate. This will require the installer to have the ability to reach the support joists for the ceiling or roof. Some of the activities that will take place during the installation include but are not limited to:

Mounting of access points
Installation of NEMA enclosures on case-by-case basis
Mounting of antennas
Connection of antennas to access points
Connection of backbone LAN to access points
Connection of power to access points
Installation and connection of remote power system
Verification of coverage
Configuration of access points and PDT's to include:
- Proper firmware level
- Radio information (system ID, channel, bit rate)
- IP addresses (provided by customer)
- Verification of backbone connectivity: Ping access points Ping host

All cabling and power runs should be done and tested prior to the installation of the access points. After completing the installation, testing for proper operation and coverage may indicate the need to move access points and possibly use different settings. Finally, documentation on all the system hardware and software will be provided to the IT staff as an aid to be used when supporting the operational system.

For more information, contact Barcoding Inc.

For Further Information

Services Information

Call Now: 888.412.7226

Our sales team will answer all your questions about inventory control and automatic data collection.