I have a facility that is 200 feet long by 120 feet wide, I have 45 employees all on the same floor. I want to plan a pilot network , what quanity and placment would I need ? What pitfalls should I avoid? what standard would you recommend?
To plan a pilot network for your facility, there are a few factors to consider: the area's size, the number of employees, placement of network equipment, and the chosen standard. Let's break down the steps to determine the quantity and placement of network equipment, as well as the potential pitfalls and recommended standards.
1. Determine the coverage area:
- Calculate the square footage of your facility: 200 feet (length) x 120 feet (width) = 24,000 square feet.
2. Understand the density of employees:
- You mentioned having 45 employees on the same floor. Divide the total area by the number of employees to get an idea of the employee density: 24,000 sq ft / 45 employees = 533 sq ft per employee.
3. Evaluate network equipment quantity:
- Depending on the range and capacity you require, you may need multiple network access points (APs). The number of APs will vary based on the equipment specifications and coverage capabilities.
- As a general starting point, you could consider placing an AP in the center of your facility, with additional ones spaced evenly around the area. This helps ensure even coverage throughout the space.
- It is advisable to consult with a network specialist or IT professional who can consider specific factors like building materials and layout to determine the optimal placement and quantity of APs for effective coverage.
4. Avoiding pitfalls:
- Interference: Make sure to consider potential sources of interference, such as physical obstructions, neighboring Wi-Fi networks, or electronic devices. These factors can impact the coverage quality and performance.
- Scalability and capacity: Plan for future growth and ensure your network infrastructure can accommodate additional devices and increased data usage.
5. Selecting a network standard:
- One commonly used standard for wireless networks is the Wi-Fi standard.
- The latest standard is Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), which offers improved performance, higher capacity, and increased efficiency compared to previous standards. However, the choice of standard depends on your specific requirements and budget.
- Consider consulting with network experts or IT professionals to determine the most suitable standard for your needs.
In summary, to plan a pilot network for your facility:
- Calculate the coverage area and determine employee density.
- Consider the quantity and placement of network access points for even coverage.
- Avoid potential pitfalls like interference and plan for scalability.
- Consult with network specialists to determine the suitable standard for your requirements.