Psiber Data Systems RF3D manual Optimizing Wireless Networks

manual

When you choose channels for the access points, it can be helpful to switch the view mode from signal power to data rate, because the data rate view reflects any adverse effects of co-channel or near-channel interference due to channel settings.

Checking the results of access point settings in the Data Rate view.

4.4 Optimizing Wireless Networks

When you have finished planning wireless signal coverage for the building, you can begin to optimize the network.You can do this in several ways, using the RF3D WifiPlan- ner’s various views on the Simulation tab, such as data rate, interference, etc. One approach is to display the expected data rates. The data rate view reflects all radio effects, including interference, signal-to-noise ratio and network traffic loads. Gaps or areas with lower data rates indicate room for improvement. To analyze the causes of lower data rates, you can use the interference or SNR views. The problems can be al- leviated by changing the access point settings.

When you are satisfied with your basic WLAN plan, you can then simulate its behavior in case of faults, such as access point failures. Do this by deactivating individual ac- cess points on the Access Points tab. A better way, however, is to use the “Log. Power Reliability Level 1” view. In this view, RF3D WifiPlanner displays the signal power that would be received at each location in the plan if the strongest access point for that location had failed. For high-reliability applications, gaps in the coverage in this view can be a problem.You can fill such gaps by adding access points.

There is always more than one way to design a wireless network. The need for a reliable or “high-availability” network is often difficult to reconcile with the need to ensure high data rates by avoiding interference. You will find, however, that networks you have designed using RF3D WifiPlanner are efficient, optimum solutions.

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