When using a WLAN design tool with propagation modeling capabilities, what critical step must be...

Accurate WLAN design relies heavily on the precision of the floor plan used in predictive modeling tools. Before placing Access Points (APs), antennas, or defining attenuation factors, it's imperative to calibrate the floor plan. This involves setting a known scale, typically by measuring a known distance within the plan, to ensure that the software accurately represents real-world dimensions.

Proper calibration ensures that signal propagation, coverage areas, and interference zones are accurately predicted, leading to a more reliable and efficient WLAN design.