Airport signal varying

Discodog

My PB G4 is connected to my modem via wi-fi & it works fine. But the signal strength on my airport icon can vary from 2 bars to 4 bar even though the computer & modem never move. Does anybody know why ?

Colonel Panic

Interference from all sorts of things from cordless phones to other wireless networks.

Type 17

Download a free Wi-Fi scanner (example) app and you can then change the channel you use, to see if it helps.

If possible, try to be two channels away from any other networks, e.g.: if a neighbour is on 7, you should avoid 6 or 8, although there may be too many networks in your area for this to be possible.

Discodog

I am not near another network - the joys of country living . I did wonder about electric devices but turning on the interference robustness makes no difference. I also can't think of anything that could be turning on or off to affect it.

whiterebel

Discodog wrote: »

I am not near another network - the joys of country living . I did wonder about electric devices but turning on the interference robustness makes no difference. I also can't think of anything that could be turning on or off to affect it.

Microwave?

Discodog

Nope that's never on for long enough. It's not a problem but it is a bit intriguing. Dropping from 4 bars to 2 bars doesn't seem to affect the speed.

Liameter

By "modem" I assume "router". Check in its menu and set the signal strength higher if it's not on maximum. Switch off and unplug any other wireless devices such as portable phone, weather station. Other possibilities include "energy saver" lights, fluorescent lights, failing power supply in computer, TV, DVD recorder etc. Switch them all off. Try a different computer. If the router has an external antenna(s) try repositioning the antenna(s). Move the Mac closer to the router. Make sure it has line of sight without obstructions such as concrete or stone.

Bodies moving around can also affect the signal. I use "iStumbler" to monitor it on my Macs.

Discodog

I think that I have found the cause. The modem is a Huwei 585 & it is connected to a mains charger. I think that the variation in signal is caused when the modem starts charging.

Liameter

Oh, it's a 3G wireless modem with a SIM card. :rolleyes:

Discodog

That's why I referred to it as a modem

Hobbes

The Airport, set it to fixed channels. By default it can switch bands if it detects interference, it can lead to lag.

Second, if you can set your device to use the 5GHz channel. It has a slightly shorter range then the lower band but doesn't get interference from devices in the house.