Mapping and Assessing Wi-Fi Network within PNG Unitech using GIS and 3D Visualisation of Signal Transmission Interference

Abstract

This paper is the first known attempt in Papua New Guinea (PNG) at mapping Wi-Fi networks using GIS, although there are quite a good number of studies related to Wi-Fi mapping around the world. The striking difference between those previous studies and the present study is that, while other studies focused on wireless network coverage and signal strength they do so without identifying instances where some locations had poor signal coverage at certain locations compared to others. In the present study, the application of Geographic Information System (GIS) enables the assessment of an existing Wi-Fi network. The study was aimed at identifying potential sources of interference resulting in signal loss within the PNG University of Technology campus. The widespread use of GIS in various disciplines including wireless communication technology is not only because of its flexibility in linking thematic data to topological data but also to perform various analytical procedures on these thematic data in the system. This has enabled the prediction of the wireless network coverage range and identification of potential sources of interference. This paper investigates the factors that influence the performance of signal strength across the network coverage and assesses the existing Wi-Fi network at Unitech. Factors considered in the assessment were the material composition of buildings, trees, and channel or frequency configuration. The resultant findings can be used to support future network quality upgrade to enhance the performance of the Unitech Wi-Fi service and that of similar networks around the world.