We are excited to announce the successful conclusion of a pioneering research project conducted in collaboration with the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).
At Gardner Engineering, we pride ourselves on being a leading UK manufacturer of high-quality hardware, including monitor mounts and camera brackets. While our roots are in CCTV, we recently set out to prove a theory: that our versatile mounting solutions could significantly improve Wi-Fi connectivity in industrial and commercial environments.
With funding provided by the SCAN South Ribble Project, the AMRC put our brackets to the test. The results are in, and they validate that correct positioning using GE brackets delivers superior network performance compared to standard setups.
The Challenge: Placement Matters
In many industrial and commercial settings, Wi-Fi Access Points (APs) are often placed sub-optimally—sometimes sitting on workbenches or shelves. This leads to signal obstruction and “dead zones”.
The goal of this study was to compare two scenarios:
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Workbench Setup: Placing the AP on a standard table (approx. 1 meter high).
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Gardner Engineering Mounts: positioning the AP at an optimal height (6-8 feet) using our specialized brackets.
The Results: Faster Speeds, Lower Latency
The AMRC conducted rigorous testing across eight distinct locations within a facility, measuring Ping (latency), Upload Speed, and Download Speed. The data clearly shows that utilizing Gardner Engineering brackets to optimize AP placement yields significant network improvements:
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Improved Download Speeds: Our mounting brackets demonstrated higher download speeds across the majority of test locations. In some areas, the difference was substantial—for example, one location saw speeds jump from 137 Mbps (tabletop) to 191 Mbps (mounted).
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Faster Uploads: The tests confirmed faster upload speeds in most locations when using our mounts. This is critical for modern businesses relying on video calls and large file transfers.
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Lower Latency (Ping): Stability is key for real-time applications. The study found that APs mounted on GE brackets generally provided lower and more stable ping rates compared to tabletop setups, reducing delay.
Innovative Design: No Drilling Required
One of the standout features of the tested Gardner Engineering bracket is its versatility. Unlike traditional mounts that require drilling into walls—which can damage property or be prohibited in rental and heritage buildings—our design offers a unique alternative.
The bracket tested can be clamped securely onto existing pipes or rods without drilling holes, making it the perfect solution for complex environments where preserving the building structure is a priority.
A Sustainable, UK-Made Solution
This project not only validates the technical performance of our products but also reinforces our commitment to UK manufacturing. All our components are sourced and manufactured right here in the UK.
By proving that our existing product range can be effectively repurposed for the IT and Telecommunications sector, we are opening new doors for our customers to achieve better connectivity with little to no re-design required.
Read the full findings in the AMRC report or contact our team today to discuss how Gardner Engineering can support your infrastructure needs.
