Q: Designing a small church WIFI network using Apple Extreme(s)
I have been tasked with extending a church WIFI network throughout its facility (hospitality offering and education use with iPads). For the sake of simplicity, I want to use a combination of Apple devices (Airport Extreme and Airport Express). We have two MacBook Pro laptops, and three Dell desktops in an Verizon FIOS system. The desktops use Ethernet and the MacBooks use WIFI. One Airport Express unit is installed in the sanctuary to provide connectivity for the MacBook Pro that works with a projection system.
I am trying to predict what and how Airport many units I am going to need.
The main issue I am wrestling with is positioning WIFI devices to service the Education Wing which incorporates 8 classrooms, two offices, and a 75 ft hallway. All of which is separated from the FIOS router by metal doors, concrete floor, concrete block wall, and distance (125 ft approx.). However, there are two Ethernet ports available to the Education Wing (one on each end of the Education Wing). Recent construction upgrades preclude running additional cable..
First, I need the broadcast strength of the Extreme and Express (in decibels I think). Second, the broadcast shape. And, third suggestions for design tools (free is best).
The iPad "WiFi Planner" application offers promise if I can correlate the Extreme and Express specifications with the application's output.
If I had a device in hand then positioning and measuring signal strength would be a snap, but I do not have a device on hand except for the Airport Express.
Airport Exteme and Express, WIFI device placement.
Posted on Jul 21, 2015 5:33 AM