Basics of Effective Wireless Implementation for Warehouses – Part 2

As discussed in Part 1, warehouses and distribution centers are under increased pressure to move goods at greater speeds while minimizing mistakes. To meet this demand, facilities must have a dependable and fast wireless network. Part 2 will discuss Five Essential Practices for Design, and Platform & Architecture.

Five Essential Practices for Design

To create an effective design for your warehouse’s wireless network, the following five essential practices for design should be carried out:

1. Avoid dead zones by performing a wireless network survey to determine where access points (antennas) should be installed.

1. By utilizing the heat map produced during the wireless network survey, technicians can determine the type and number of access points required for providing adequate wireless coverage within the warehouse.

1. As devices do not have identical capabilities in reception sensitivity, it is crucial to accurately select and install the devices that will be connecting and operating inside the warehouse’s wireless network.

1. The warehouse’s environment, including interior features and any objects that can cause interference or affect wireless coverage, should be considered. This includes high ceilings, machinery, pallets, pillars, power lines, racks, shelves, and walls.

1. As the wireless network’s access points will be connected to the network backbone, it is crucial to choose the proper type of cable. The minimum category for modern facilities is Cat6a. Ensure cable run lengths stay within specifications.

Platform & Architecture

The proper selection of the platform and architecture of the warehouse’s wireless infrastructure is essential for making its implementation successful.

Keep in mind that a warehouse’s network can be much more technologically complex than one for an office. Industrial grade access points mitigating interference and providing robust signals will be required. For example, smart industrial antennas that can recognize obstacles and compensate for them are now available.

For warehouses with multi-antenna environments, wireless controllers will be required for tracking devices connected to the network and forwarding their credentials as they roam. In addition, solutions can now detect the type of traffic – data, video, or voice – and adapt correctly to their technical requirements. As an example, VoIP (Voice over IP) needs low latency over a wireless network to prevent distortion during phone calls.

Progressive Office Cabling

Founded in 1986, Progressive Office’s success has been a direct result of years of commitment to seeking cost-effective solutions. Working together, Progressive teams are committed to getting your data cabling, access control, and telecom systems installed and operating while minimizing disruption and downtime. Call our toll-free number (800) 614-4560 today.

Stu Kushner

Stu Kushner earned an Engineering Degree from the University of Maryland, College Park. From there he worked at Boeing Commercial Aircraft, Hexcel Corporation and Case-Rixon as a computer design engineer and systems manager. He now works as the marketing director and project manager here at Progressive Office since its founding in 1986.

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