Warehouses are notoriously difficult when it comes to providing a good WiFi solution. Many are 50,000 square feet or larger, but sheer size isn't the hardest thing to work with when it comes to wireless connectivity. Much more intrusive are things like the racks, the ever-changing stock, equipment, and the devices trying to utilize the wireless. What should you consider before investing in a warehouse WiFi solution?
1. What Kinds of Devices Does the Warehouse WiFi Solution Need to Support?
Usually, getting the WiFi signal out to users devices isn't the biggest problem; the biggest challenge is that low-powered devices (like smartphones and tablets) can't get their signal back to the access point. Smaller devices are typically lower-powered devices, so if these need to connect to your WiFi, you'll need a wireless network plan and site survey to properly place the correct number of access points in the proper locations.
2. What Concentration of Users Should You Expect?
Another challenge in a warehouse is the constantly fluctuating number of users. Today, there might just be a handful of forklift drivers around. Tomorrow, there might be a group of 20 partners or investors visiting, quickly and drastically upping the demand for bandwidth. The types of applications users access also plays a role, so you will need to plan for different capacities, depending on the types of applications your users need to access via your network.
3. Can Your Wireless Network Change when the Environment Changes?
A common mistake in warehouses is to crank the power settings up to the maximum to try to get a higher powered signal out to the workers. This doesn't work. First, it does nothing to combat the problem we just discussed -- the devices being able to get a signal back to the access points. Secondly, it causes more interference than it does signal improvements. Invest in a properly designed warehouse WiFi solution that has the ability to adapt to the ever-changing environment; and get the right number of access points for your unique location(s).
4. What Type of Antenna Do You Need?
There are two types of antennas: directional antennas that are designed to push a signal out into a specific area or direction, and omnidirectional that are designed to push a signal out 360-degrees. Many locations require a combination of antenna types due to rack locations, ceiling heights, ability to run cabling and out buildings. Be sure to select the correct types of antenna you need, based on the layout of your warehouse and the configuration of your wireless network.
5. Where is the Best Placement for the Access Points?
The location of the access points, types of antennas you need, and the devices and applications in use on the network all significantly impact the type of warehouse WiFi solution you need.
Should you opt for placing the AP's on the ceiling of the warehouse? Doing so could move the access points out of range for many devices, as the ceilings of a warehouse are often 30 feet or higher. Placing the AP's too low can result in poor coverage due to racks of goods, or damage from forklifts. This is another example of when proper planning with a well thought out RF design and site survey will help achieve a solid, reliable wireless network.
6. Are There Outdoor Areas (Docks, Break Areas, etc.) That Need WiFi Coverage?
If you need to deliver WiFi access outside the confines of the warehouse walls, you will probably need to invest in additional AP's. Outdoor break areas, docks and other outdoor environments present their own WiFi challenges, not the least of which are heat, humidity and contaminants. Discuss your particular situation and needs with your warehouse WiFi solution provider.
Are you ready to get started? Call Turn-key Technologies today to request a quote for reliable, dependable warehouse WiFi solutions.
