What characteristics should an access point (AP) have for effective WLAN site surveys?

For effective WLAN site surveys, an access point (AP) should ideally have variable output power and external antenna connectors. This is because variable output power allows the technician to adjust the signal strength as needed during the survey. Different areas may require different levels of signal strength, particularly if there are obstacles or varying distances from the AP to the client devices. By being able to modify the output power, the technician can better assess coverage and performance throughout the intended area.

External antenna connectors are also crucial because they allow for the use of different types of antennas, which can be tailored to specific survey needs. For example, omnidirectional antennas can be useful for broader coverage, while directional antennas can focus the signal in a specific direction to test coverage in harder-to-reach areas. This flexibility is important in a site survey to ensure that all possible deployment scenarios are considered.

Having a built-in web server, while beneficial for managing the AP remotely, does not specifically enhance the ability to conduct a comprehensive site survey. Compact size and low price, while potentially desirable for other reasons, are not essential characteristics that facilitate effective site surveys. Lastly, fixed output power and the absence of connectors would limit the technician's ability to adapt the AP to varying conditions, making this configuration less