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What should you note in the wireless local area network (WLAN) site survey if a semidirectional antenna is required for adequate coverage?

User Ivor Zhou
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Final answer:

In a WLAN site survey, it is vital to note the orientation, optimal placement, and tuning of a semidirectional antenna for the best possible network performance. The antenna should match the polarization of the transmitter and be placed to overcome physical obstructions, with calculations done for correct antenna size based on frequency.

Step-by-step explanation:

When conducting a WLAN site survey and determining that a semidirectional antenna is required for adequate coverage, several important factors should be noted. Firstly, it's crucial to understand that a semidirectional antenna's orientation plays a significant role in the reception and transmission of radio waves. This orientation should align with the electric field of the waves for optimal performance. When a transmitter uses a vertically oriented antenna, the receiving straight wire antenna should also be vertical to best receive the signals. Similarly, a loop antenna should be aligned so that its plane is perpendicular to the direction of the incoming radio waves.

During the site survey, it involves mapping out the area to be covered and noting potential obstructions that can affect signal propagation. The planned placement of the semidirectional antenna should avoid barriers that impede its line of sight to the area to be covered. Enhancement of the antenna's efficiency is achieved by placing it at an appropriate height, minimizing interference from other electronic devices, and ensuring it addresses areas where coverage is most needed.

The resonance of the antenna is another crucial aspect, as it must be tuned to the correct frequency for efficient broadcasting. This tuning relates to the antenna's physical dimensions and orientation concerning the wavelength of the radio waves it will transmit or receive. The antenna size correlates with one-fourth the wavelength of the radio signal for maximum efficiency; thus, calculations for this are necessary for the setup. In practice, this means that the positioning and specific technical setup of the semidirectional antenna should be documented in detail within the site survey to achieve the best network performance possible.

User Adam Tropp
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