CTS 391 – How to Perform an AP-on-a-Stick Survey Effectively

https://youtu.be/gDR38L1sOfQ




An AP-on-a-Stick (APoS) survey is the most reliable way to know how a Wi-Fi design will behave in a difficult environment. You mount a real access point on a tripod, place it where you plan to install it, and measure. It is also the survey type where the most time gets wasted — and almost never on RF.



In this episode we go through how we prepare and run APoS surveys: the conversation with the client, the equipment decisions, the configuration work that belongs in the office, and the way we organise the survey files we bring back.



What we cover




* When an APoS survey is justified, and when a predictive design plus a validation survey is the better answer



* Preparing the work on site with the client: escorts, access, PPE, production constraints, and communicating what our equipment entails



* Choosing the right equipment for the site: stick height, antennas, brackets, PoE batteries



* Why the access points must be configured and tested before leaving the office



* The case for a two-person crew



* Planning the measurements in advance so the on-site day is pure execution



* Using one survey file per variable to compare antennas, locations, heights and power levels




APoS preparation checklist




* [ ] Escorts confirmed, with names and time slots



* [ ] Site access, parking and PPE requirements documented



* [ ] Client informed of the equipment coming on site and its footprint



* [ ] APs configured, labelled and tested: SSID, channel, width, tx power, name broadcast



* [ ] Full kit tested end to end, batteries charged, spares packed



* [ ] Velcro wraps, zip ties, duct tape and screwdriver kit in the bag



* [ ] Measurement plan built from the predictive model, test points numbered on the floor plan



* [ ] Survey file naming convention agreed before the first walk




Key takeaway



An APoS survey is won or lost before you get on site. Prepare off site, execute on site.



Resources




* Vantage Point 6/9/12 m tall mast tripod for APoS surveys



* Manfrotto 269HDBU — 7 m super high stand



* Manfrotto 1004BAC — 3.6 m air-cushioned stand



* Ventev Venvolt 2 site survey battery pack



* Ekahau AI Pro — design, survey and reporting software



* Ekahau Sidekick 2 — survey measurement device



* Hamina Planner — browser-based design and analysis



* Hamina Onsite — site survey and APoS validation app



* WiFiStand — AP mount that clamps onto standard poles



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