We currently provide a template for three different types of training: A three day intensive "Boot Camp", a five day course, and a ten day course.
All training days include lecture in the morning followed by lab in the afternoon. Work days tend to be long, particularly with the three-day course. Due to the complexity of the topic and the amount of material to be covered, we expect prompt attendance and seven hour work days. Evening sessions are p
ossible if the training facility is near where the participants are staying, but are always optional. We assume that network connectivity will be provided by the host institution, and that PC computers are available for lab exercises.
Three-day Wireless Boot Camp
The goal of the 3-day crash course is to help people understand that WiFI can go further, how to choose the right antenna, how to properly install WiFi equipment, and to understand how all of this fits into their existing network.
DAY 1
- Local case study, provided by a local instructor
- Antenna fundamentals: Antenna basics
- Crash course introduction to link budget: dB math and Link Budget Calculation
- Antenna lab
DAY 2
- Radio spectrum, wireless standards, and protocols: Wireless Standards, Spectrum Management & Regulatory Issues, Comparative Use of Unlicensed Radio Spectrum
- TCP/IP fundamentals: Networking Basics
- Bandwidth requirements for various applications
- APs and clients: WiFi Networking Architecture, Access Point Configuration
- Wireless configuration lab
DAY 3
- Power over Ethernet, grounding, and lightning protection: Powering Issues
- Outdoor installation
- Wireless Security
- Case study review
Five-day Course
In the one-week course, the above topics are covered in greater depth. We also spend more time on advanced topics such as long distance WiFi and mesh networks. The following subjects are introduced:
- Mesh networking: Mesh Networking
- How to choose wireless networking equipment
- Long distance considerations: Radio Mobile
- dB math
- Network management and monitoring: Network management with Nagios
- Site survey
Ten-day Course
In the two-week course, the above topics are covered in even greater detail. We also introduce a group challenge, where teams are expected to cooperate to solve a real-world wireless problem. If logistics permit, we also introduce a field experiment to create a long-distance wireless link between buildings on campus.
Additional topics can be tailored to fit the audience, and may include:
- Applied mesh networking exercises
- Wireless sensor networks
- Antenna modeling software
- DIY antenna designs
- Case studies (in collaboration with all participants)