Client Background
Eurokey Recycling operates within a complex recycling environment, with large-scale processing areas incorporating conveyor systems, mezzanines, machinery and other industrial infrastructure.
Reliable wireless connectivity is essential to supporting day-to-day operations across the site. As with many complex warehouse WiFi environments, conveyor systems, mezzanines, machinery and changing operational conditions can make consistent wireless performance challenging.
The Challenge
Eurokey approached DTE following concerns with the performance and reliability of its existing wireless network.
The client required an onsite RF survey to investigate the reported issues and provide clear evidence of any underlying wireless problems across the site. Due to the complex environment, including extensive conveyor systems, mezzanine levels and industrial equipment, DTE was tasked with identifying the factors contributing to the network’s performance issues.
The Solution
DTE completed a comprehensive onsite RF WiFi survey using the Ekahau Sidekick 2 to assess the existing wireless network and identify areas of poor performance, configuration issues and potential sources of interference.
Based on DTE’s best understanding of Eurokey’s wireless requirements, the survey was assessed against a target signal strength of -71 dBm within the warehouse environment and -65 dBm within office areas to support VoWiFi calling.
The survey identified a number of issues within the existing deployment, including an access point in the entrance lobby that was disconnected and therefore not providing wireless coverage. Multiple access points were also operating on DFS channels and using 80 MHz channel widths, creating an unsuitable configuration for the complex RF environment.
The survey data was analysed in detail to identify and demonstrate the wireless issues throughout the site. DTE produced an in-depth report documenting the findings, supported by survey data and coverage analysis, providing Eurokey with clear evidence of the problems identified within the existing network.
The Result
The project provided Eurokey with a clear understanding of the condition and performance of its existing wireless network and demonstrated where the network was not meeting the understood coverage requirements.
The survey and resulting report:
| Result | Outcome |
|---|---|
|
Wireless Issues |
Coverage and configuration problems clearly identified |
|
Access Point Issue |
Disconnected AP identified in the entrance lobby |
|
Channel Configuration |
Multiple APs found using DFS channels and 80 MHz widths |
|
Warehouse Coverage |
Assessed against a -71 dBm target |
|
Office & VoWiFi |
Assessed against a -65 dBm target |
|
RF Evidence |
Detailed survey data demonstrated where performance issues existed |
|
Next Steps |
Clear technical findings provided to support network remediation and improvements |
By combining detailed onsite RF surveying with comprehensive analysis and reporting, DTE provided Eurokey with clear, evidence-based findings to demonstrate the issues affecting its wireless network and establish a clear basis for future improvements.
