I’ve been using a Fluke Networks AirCheck WiFi analyzer at the eWEEK San Francisco test lab and the results are pretty good. You’ll be able to read my full review later this week, but for now, here are some of my preliminary findings.
AirCheck reports more. Anyone with a WiFi enabled phone can find access points. There are even no cost WiFi analyzer apps for Android that do a passable job of identifying wireless network components and general performance characteristics. Even with it’s relatively small 3-inch screen the AirCheck’s well thought out interface displays an array of useful information.
Compared to the free Android apps, it was far easier to interpret channel use and wireless problems using the AirCheck.
As with any wireless network analyzer tool, I’m always taken aback at the amount of information that is shouted into the air. Planted in the the heart off over 1.5 million square feet of offices in downtown SF our office is engulfed in a maelstrom wireless traffic. I’m reminded again of the importance of ensuring that radio traffic is secured especially seeing that we work in cramped quarters when seen from a radio’s point of view.