Site Planning Preparation Checklist

Proper preparation is the key to a smooth and efficient Silvanet deployment, and it starts with planning your site.
Before creating your site plan, use this checklist to gather essential information, confirm conditions that aren’t visible on maps, and ensure your plan supports a reliable and efficient field deployment.

1. Site Visit & Assessment

Visiting the site (if possible) helps you validate map data and account for real-world conditions.

• On-the-ground verification: Confirm terrain, vegetation, and accessibility for installation teams.

• High human-use or high-risk areas: Identify trails, campsites, roads, or areas with a history of fire.

• Obstacles: Note large rocks, structures, or terrain features that could block wireless signals.

• Accessibility: Ensure personnel can safely reach any areas where devices will be installed, noting spots that may require specialized equipment or additional planning.

See also: Scouting and Evaluating Deployment Locations

See also: Can I Plan a Site Without Visiting the Area?

2. Power & Connectivity Pre-Planning

Before placing gateways in your plan, determine where reliable power and connectivity will be available.

• Solar exposure: Identify areas with consistent sunlight for solar-powered devices.

• Mains power / LAN access: Note potential PoE installation points for Border Gateways that require fixed infrastructure.

• Cellular coverage: Check LTE-M or NB-IoT connectivity for Border Gateways via coverage maps or perform on-site testing if coverage is uncertain.

See also: How Border Gateway Connectivity and Power Type Affect Site Planning
See also: Checking Mobile Connectivity Before Site Planning: Why It Matters

3. Device Placement Considerations

Pre-planning device positions ensures a connected, efficient, and maintainable network.

• Border Gateway height and mounting: Identify strong trees or poles and plan for optimal line-of-sight and solar exposure.

• Mesh Gateway & sensor zones: Plan placement for consistent coverage, accounting for obstacles and terrain.

• Network performance: Identify placements that avoid obstacles not visible on maps, such as large rocks, structures, or unexpected dense vegetation that could block connectivity. 

See also: Understanding Border Gateway Installation Heights and Mounting Methods for Planning
See also: Understanding Site Priority Areas and Sensor Density Planning

Note: Completing this checklist before starting your site plan helps minimize surprises in the field, speeds up planning validation, and supports a successful deployment.