Networking :: Site survey scan?

I would like to know if there is a way for me to scan for networks around me.

I have tried to use Synaptics to install Kismet, but my lack of linux experience didn't get me far. I had tried Auditor linux in the past and kismet used to be a little button I could click.

I got to the point where I had to login to root to do a "scan", but I could not get the program to do anything interesting. It was unable to see anything so I don't think it was actually working.

I am using a Dlink DWL 122 USB dongle that works great for wifi on this distro.

I do not need lectures about scanning, hacking, and overall stealing wifi. I have my own DSL and routers. It would just make life easier if I could go to a public hotspot, do a scan to see whats avalible then enter the SSID into the Prism2 GUI.

Thank you.

(Open to kismet howto or similar scan apps)

original here.