A predictive wireless design is the process of modelling a wireless network before deployment using specialised software and floor plans. By considering building materials, access point models, coverage requirements and expected user density, engineers can create a design that provides reliable wireless performance before any hardware is installed.
Why Is Predictive Wireless Design Important?
Wireless networks are often expected to support business-critical applications, voice services, video conferencing and large numbers of connected devices. A predictive design helps reduce deployment risk by identifying suitable access point locations and estimating wireless performance before installation.
How Does Predictive Wireless Design Work?
Engineers begin by importing floor plans into wireless design software. Building materials, ceiling heights, walls, shelving and other environmental factors are then considered to model how wireless signals are likely to behave throughout the environment.
Coverage, capacity and roaming requirements can then be assessed to determine the optimal access point placement strategy.
Information Required For A Predictive Design
- Floor Plans - Accurate drawings of the environment help ensure the design reflects the physical layout.
- Coverage Areas - Clearly defining required coverage areas allows engineers to design the wireless network around business needs, ensuring reliable connectivity throughout the intended spaces.
- Building Materials - Different materials affect wireless signals in different ways and influence coverage predictions.
- User Requirements - Expected user numbers and application requirements influence capacity planning.
- Access Point Models - The proposed hardware is used when modelling wireless coverage and performance.
Benefits Of Predictive Wireless Design
Predictive wireless design provides valuable insight before deployment begins. It helps reduce installation costs, improve design accuracy and minimise the risk of unexpected coverage issues.
It also provides a strong foundation for APoS surveys, deployment planning and post-installation validation.
Predictive Design vs APoS Surveys
Predictive wireless design uses software modelling to estimate wireless performance. APoS surveys build upon this process by temporarily deploying access points within the environment and collecting real-world measurements to validate the proposed design.
For many projects, both methodologies are used together to achieve the best possible outcome.
Key Points
- Predictive designs model wireless networks before deployment.
- Building materials and floor plans are key inputs.
- Coverage and capacity requirements can be assessed early.
- Predictive designs help reduce deployment risk.
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WirelessMancer provides wireless design, capacity planning and survey services for organisations of all sizes across the UK and Europe.
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