Warehouse Wireless Access Point Design Considerations
For modern distribution centers and warehouses, a speedy and dependable wireless network is essential for companies seeking to increase productivity and profitability. Issues stemming from a faulty or poorly designed network can result in economic losses.
Organizations should prioritize their wireless access point (WAP) design to ensure efficiency in their facilities. The following will discuss 5 key WAP features, so you are aware of their importance during the design process.
Access Point Locations
Some mistakenly believe successful access point (AP) installation is totally reliant on coverage and ensuring access points can reach every corner. But their location is a factor often overlooked. Placing APs close to brick, concrete, or metal surfaces may decrease signal strength and noticeably reduce performance in a warehouse.
Dual Radio APs
Devices are typically capable of connecting to access points over various frequencies. A connection over a 2.4Ghz frequency will be slower but have a longer range. In contrast, a connection over 5Ghz will be faster while having a shorter range.
A dual-radio access point can connect over either frequency. This would allow your warehouse’s network to be available to a greater number of devices even in high-density locations. Thus, the optimum network performance can be maintained even in wireless areas with many users connected.
Firmware Updates
Like software, firmware requires updates to improve performance and security. These updates can be performed by your cabling contractor or your company. Firmware updates are important because they will allow your wireless network to perform at its best.
Load Balancing
Although devices can access a warehouse’s network, it does not indicate it can cope with the demand. There may be locations such as conference halls where network usage will have big spikes. Spikes can be handled by balancing the load between two or more access points nearby. If these big spikes are not addressed, frequent speed and connectivity problems will occur.
Speed of Access Points
Selecting access points with the wrong speed can drastically affect network performance. An AP should be a good technical match for your network’s speed. For example, a warehouse network running on 50Mb speeds, should not use 1Gb access points.
802.11ac is the standard for businesses, and it can handle a signal ranging from 450Mb to a few Gb per second.
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.
