Manual

Log. Power

This is the received signal strength of the strongest access point at each location. Use this view to gauge the quality of your network coverage. A value of –70 dB or higher is sufficient. (Remember that, since the values in dB are negative, a higher value is one that is closer to zero.)

Log. SNR

This view shows the signal-to-noise ratio at each location, which reflects the effects of co-channel interference. A value of 10 dB or higher is good.

Data Rate

The data rate view shows the estimated attainable data rate at each location. This is a very useful prediction of how the projected network will actually perform. The display shows values between 1 and 54 Mbit/s. Higher data rates are better.

Interference

Interference is a major concern in wireless network planning. Interference is caused mainly by co-channel overlap with other access points. Reduce interference by select- ing different channels for adjacent access points, or by reducing the output power of certain access points. This will reduce the size of the cell. How much interference you want to accept depends on your specific needs for redundancy and for throughput.

Redundancy (full version only)

Access point redundancy is important in areas that require continuous network avail- ability even when local failures or system overloads occur.The RF3D WifiPlanner provides various views to help you plan access point redundancy. Each view simulates a certain scenario in which you can ensure that critical areas have adequate backup cover- age.

Log. Power Reliability Level 1

This view displays the signal strength received from the second strongest access point at each location, assuming that the strongest access point is no longer working.

Log. Power Reliability Level 2

This view displays the signal strength received from the third strongest access point at each location, assuming that the strongest access point is no longer working.

Log. SNR Reliability Level 1

This view displays the signal-to-noise ratio at each location assuming that the strongest access point is no longer working.

Log. SNR Reliability Level 2

This view displays the signal-to-noise ratio at each location assuming that the two strong- est access points are no longer working.

F.The color scale indicates what numeric values correspond to the colors in the main dis- play.You can modify the range and the number of gradations in the input fields below the color scale. This is practical when you would like to display finer distinctions in the plan.