Comparison of 2.4 and 5 GHz WLAN network for purpose of indoor and outdoor location

This paper presents comparison of prototype location system built with standard components of 2.4 and 5 GHz WLAN network infrastructure. The system can be used for personal or other objects’ positioning, both for indoor and outdoor environments. The system is local, i.e. its operational area is limited to WLAN network operating range. The system is based on standard and widely available WLAN components (access points, network adapters). The goal is to avoid any hardware and software modifications. Also position calculation should not be power hungry operation. Method of location is based in Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) returned by most of RF ICs (including WLAN). The main focus is research of how much accuracy (and usefulness) can be expected from standard WLAN hardware. Both static and dynamic scenarios have been tested and compared