If you observe that your player's Signal Strength is below -65 dBm, to the extent that it impacts the streaming of your High-Quality files, we suggest implementing adjustments to enhance the network signal strength to your Player.
For information on locating your player's Signal Strength and its impact on playback, refer to our Help Center article.
Two primary factors can impede a player from receiving a robust signal between the router and the player: the physical distance separating the two devices and any obstacles obstructing the signal's path.
Distance
The impact of distance on signal strength can vary between different router models. Bluesound Players exclusively utilize the 2.4 GHz wireless band when connecting to a Wireless-N router. Certain routers may perform better on specific wireless bands depending on the internal hardware than others.
Obstacle
In a typical household, common obstacles usually encompass walls, floors, furniture, and even occupants. Additionally, the composition of walls and floors influences the behavior of wireless signals. For instance, wood is more porous than cinder blocks, meaning network signals can penetrate an internal wall more easily than an external one.
Tips
If relocating your player to a better location is not feasible, here are some suggestions that can assist you in enhancing the signal:
- The wireless antennas in your Bluesound Players are positioned toward the front of the Player. Orienting your Player with its front facing your router may result in a slight improvement in signal strength.
- Wireless signals radiate outward from the sides of the antennas on your router. Think of it like placing a doughnut on the tip of your finger, where your finger represents the antenna, and the doughnut symbolizes the direction of the signal waves radiating from the antenna. This concept resembles the ripples created on a pond when you toss a stone in. The waves primarily propagate in two dimensions, with limited vertical coverage. If you have multiple antennas all pointing in the same direction, it could be beneficial to reposition them at opposing 45-degree angles. This adjustment can enhance the ability of the antenna's signal to penetrate walls or floors more effectively.
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You can also use various devices to expand the wireless network to Bluesound Players.
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Wireless Repeaters (extending wireless to wireless)
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Wireless Access Points (extending wired to wireless)
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Powerline Kits enable the extension of your wired or wireless network by leveraging the existing electrical wiring in your home, ensuring a safe and effective network extension.
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Bluesound users with multiple Players or Players in areas with weak signals have successfully expanded their home networks using these methods. Our suggestion is to opt for a network-extending device from the same brand as your home router to ensure optimal compatibility.