Our Process · Step 02

Baseline RF Survey

Measuring what’s actually there — before assuming anything.

Before any design work begins, we measure the existing signal environment using professional-grade tools. The baseline establishes what’s already present, where the problem areas are, and gives the design process objective data instead of assumptions.

What this step involves

Signal measurements collected with PCTEL SeeHawk Touch and the IBflex scanning receiver
Measurement walks covering every area the system must serve
Survey data imported into iBwave for analysis and design input
For buildings under construction: first-floor signal strength predictions are modeled in iBwave when physical access isn’t yet possible

Engineer conducting an RF signal measurement survey inside a building — Baseline RF survey with SeeHawk Touch and the IBflex.

Floor plan heat map of predicted first-floor signal strength from path loss calculations, with signal strength legend at right — First-floor signal strength prediction using path loss calculations. Green in the heat map indicates the signal strength is greater than the required -95 dBm. If the prediction is correct, the entire 1st floor fails and an ERCES is required.

Floor plan heat map of measured first-floor signal strength from the baseline RF survey walk, with signal strength legend at right — Pre-installation first-floor signal strength data collected by walking the floor — the baseline RF survey, or benchmark. Green indicates the signal strength is greater than the required -95 dBm. The baseline RF survey confirms the 1st floor has failed and an ERCES is required.

What we deliver

Baseline survey data covering each floor or area in scope

Documentation of existing coverage and dead zones

A measured “before” picture that any post-installation result can be compared against

Why it matters

Designs built on assumptions fail grid tests. The baseline also produces objective evidence — when the AHJ or a carrier asks what changed, the before-and-after data answers the question.

Talk through your project

Tell us about your building and coverage requirements — we'll help you determine what's needed and walk you through exactly how we'd approach it.

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