CTS 391 – How to Perform an AP-on-a-Stick Survey Effectively

An AP-on-a-Stick (APoS) survey is the most reliable way to know how a Wi-Fi design will behave in a difficult environment. You mount a real access point on a tripod, place it where you plan to install it, and measure. It is also the survey type where the most time gets wasted — and almost never on RF.

In this episode we go through how we prepare and run APoS surveys: the conversation with the client, the equipment decisions, the configuration work that belongs in the office, and the way we organise the survey files we bring back.

What we cover

• When an APoS survey is justified, and when a predictive design plus a validation survey is the better answer
• Preparing the work on site with the client: escorts, access, PPE, production constraints, and communicating what our equipment entails
• Choosing the right equipment for the site: stick height, antennas, brackets, PoE batteries
• Why the access points must be configured and tested before leaving the office
• The case for a two-person crew
• Planning the measurements in advance so the on-site day is pure execution
• Using one survey file per variable to compare antennas, locations, heights and power levels

APoS preparation checklist

• [ ] Escorts confirmed, with names and time slots
• [ ] Site access, parking and PPE requirements documented
• [ ] Client informed of the equipment coming on site and its footprint
• [ ] APs configured, labelled and tested: SSID, channel, width, tx power, name broadcast
• [ ] Full kit tested end to end, batteries charged, spares packed
• [ ] Velcro wraps, zip ties, duct tape and screwdriver kit in the bag
• [ ] Measurement plan built from the predictive model, test points numbered on the floor plan
• [ ] Survey file naming convention agreed before the first walk

Key takeaway

An APoS survey is won or lost before you get on site. Prepare off site, execute on site.

• Vantage Point 6/9/12 m tall mast tripod for APoS surveys
• Manfrotto 269HDBU — 7 m super high stand
• Manfrotto 1004BAC — 3.6 m air-cushioned stand
• Ventev Venvolt 2 site survey battery pack
• Ekahau AI Pro — design, survey and reporting software
• Ekahau Sidekick 2 — survey measurement device
• Hamina Planner — browser-based design and analysis
• Hamina Onsite — site survey and APoS validation app
• WiFiStand — AP mount that clamps onto standard poles
• AirConsole — wireless serial console adapter
• AccelTex Accelerator PoE battery
• Mist AI WLAN Design Framework #12 — Access Point on Stick (APoS)

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