What's important in budgeting a wireless network project?

Active Survey happens when you do an onsite survey using testing equipment and live access points. This is typically done when wireless is mission-critical to business success. Another method of planning for wireless, is to do a predictive survey where assumptions are made and software is used to predict the behavior of wireless.

The amount of cables needed for each access point is based on throughput, redundancy or the use of one port for console. The amount of cables to each access point and the type of Category cable can affect cost.

Do you wish to cover all spaces in your facility or just certain areas? Some installations require only common areas while others are looking for total coverage. Knowing the differences and what you are trying to accomplish is critical in the budgeting process.

Consider how many people will be accessing the wireless network in a given area. For instance, in auditorium, class room, event area, shopping centers, you will need to plan for many users. Understanding your mobile users needs will affect cost.

The applications that are allowed and consume bandwidth on your network affect cost. For instance, will they be watching Netflix, downloading content in 4K, streaming music or just surfing the web?

Outside of common security measures, such as encryption, you may want to deploy radius, LDAP, 2-Step authentication or other physical or software based security measures. Security needs will affect cost.

Some clients prefer to have a physical controller at each site while others use solutions where the controller is centralized. How you deploy the smarts of your wireless network will affect cost.

Physical installation of the access points is an important factor in budgeting. Factors like ceiling heights or whether the access point will be installed outdoors will affect the overall price of the system.

Most manufacturers have management or cloud licensing fees that range anywhere from one and three year increments. These costs need to be considered when considering total cost of ownership.

Where is the project located? Some parts of the country are more expensive than others. Some rural areas may require travel due to availability of the field resources which could increase cost.

Type of environment will impact price. Class A Office, Distribution Center, Manufacturing, Retail, Indoor vs. Outdoor could all impact overall cost.

Projects being installed with a Union Labor requirement will be more expensive than projects without the requirement. Some projects require a prevailing wage to be paid to a technician which can also increase costs.

Permitting varies from state to state and city to city. One city may not require anything more than an application form to receive a permit, while others may want full engineered drawings that go through a plan review process. The full set of engineered drawings carries a substantial price tag that elevates the overall system cost. Another consideration is the time required if the review process is a requirement.

New construction will typically be less expensive than renovation.

Local codes can drive cost as they vary in requirement. For instance, in some locations across the U.S. all overhead cable must run in conduit while others can be supported with J-Hooks in the ceiling.

Pathways can contribute greatly to overall system costs. Costs of core holes sizing and cutting slab for conduits needs to be considered in your budgeting process.

What type of structure is being built? A system in a manufacturing plant is developed completely different than a high rise office building. An apartment complex can reuse the same templates for each building; this saves design time and costs.

Normal working hours will be less expensive than after hours or weekends.