2. The Site Survey is approved
In the site survey, Ground Control learns if the client has permission to access the roof, and a number of other assorted questions that help paint a clear picture of what is necessary for an installation. At this time Ground Control will work out the details of the installation (such as pole mount or non-pen mount) with the client. Also, the client can request a preferred installation date. Many of these are simply "ASAP". The installer will always receive a copy of this site survey from Ground Control.
3. Ground Control locates an installer
An installer is contacted by Ground Control and asked to perform the installation. When accepted, Ground Control will generate a work order for that installer, as well as sending along a copy of the Site Survey form to give them a clear idea of what to expect going into the installation.
4. The Installer contacts the client
Once you have the site survery and the work order, you know almost everything you need about the installation. Use this information when you call the client to arrange the final details and the installation date.
You may want to review the items on the site survey and ask any questions of the client that seem pertinent. Remember that while working on these installations, you are a representative of Ground Control: should you be asked a question to which you are not certin of the answer, it is always wise to say "I'll find out for you", then call Ground Control for specific answers to your questions.
5. Ground Control ships the equipment
Sometimes, the equipment is sent to the installer if they are a representative of an authorized reseller or partner. Most times, however, the client will receive the shipment directly from Ground Control.
6. Installer Prepares for installation
Purchase any supplies you will need, any consumables, or any extra or special tools you will require, based on the site survey and your conversations with the client. Remember to purchase the cinderblocks to stabilize the mount if it's a Non-Penetrating roof-mount, or grounding wire and mounting hardware. Always come prepared!
Also, double-check to make sure your laptop is loaded with the correct software. Do you have the CPE Wizard? The iSight software? Make sure your laptop is in good working order, and that you have your straight through cable, your crossover cable, and your wireless card. Charge up your cell phone and your camera, and make sure you have enough room on your camera to take the installation pictures.
7. Installer calls the client the day before the installation
To make sure that all of the equipment has been received and everyone is ready to make the installation happen, call the customer the day before the scheduled installation to confirm everything. Make sure that all equipment is in good condition.
8. Installation Day
Make CERTAIN that you have your cell phone, camera, and laptop as well as the chargers for all three before heading out. You'll need the laptop and phone to call Ground Control during the Cross-Pol testing, and you'll need the camera to take your installation photos.
9. Sign-Off
Once the installation has been completed and the cross-pol has finished, record the Isolation score given to you by the Network Operations Center on the work order, then get the customers signature on the sign-off portion. Be sure to take pictures of your complete installation, including the radio equipment, the coax cables, and the Point of Entry into the building. These pictures will need to be sent to Ground Control Technical Support, along with the customer-signed work order, before we can sign off the installation.
