[Tfug] Router testing

[Don Freeman]

Thanks to all who replied to my original post. I found the problem was
solved by reorienting the adapter antenna and resetting the adapter
configuration. Apparently the kids (6&3) messed up the config. :) Aren't
they a joy?

Have a great weekend.


-----Original Message-----
From: tfug-bounces at tfug.org [mailto:tfug-bounces at tfug.org] On Behalf Of
Bexley Hall
Sent: Thursday, June 18, 2009 7:30 PM
To: Tucson Free Unix Group
Subject: Re: [Tfug] Router testing


> Doing a site survey with only wifi tools may not inform you about 
> other RF interference sources.  For example, I experienced a situation 
> where a break room microwave was hosing wifi connections for people in 
> nearby offices.  Only by experimenting and a lucky guess were we able 
> to determine the cause of the problem.  I'm assuming there is 
> equipment that will help you track down general sources of RF 
> interference, but not sure what those might be.

Correct.  But, microwave ovens tend to be intermittent usage.  A more
probable culprit (if the interference is prolonged) is an old 2.4G "portable
phone".  (Note there are lots of other things that can be using that band as
well)

Of course, if the OP is experiencing these problems and *knows* he isn't the
cause of the interference, he's largely SOL -- unless he can find the
offending individual and convince them to change their behaviour(s).

When I've had problems at home, I've relocated the wireless router and done
site surveys from each of the new locations (just to get a feel for what is
going on among my immediate neighbors).  When I see three (clueless)
neighbors all using "ch 6", it tells me my first action is to move to 1 or
11.

It's also worth noting if you have problems at certain times of the day.
E.g., in my case, some neighbors leave their AP's on 24/7.  Others turn them
on when they are home/needed.
Just watching the WiFi usage patterns helped me figure out where my problem
was coming from and an effective way around it.

YMMV, of course.


      

_______________________________________________
Tucson Free Unix Group - tfug at tfug.org
Subscription Options:
http://www.tfug.org/mailman/listinfo/tfug_tfug.org