Lexmark 4600 Series How can I improve wireless signal strength?, Remove Sources of Interference

How can I improve wireless signal strength?

A common reason wireless printers fail to communicate over a network is poor wireless signal quality. If the signal is too weak, too distorted, or blocked by an object, it cannot carry information between the access point and the printer. To determine if the printer is receiving a strong signal from the access point, print a network setup page. The Quality field indicates the relative strength of the wireless signal the printer is receiving. Drops in signal strength can be intermittent, however, and although the signal quality appears high, it may drop during certain conditions.

If you think signal strength is a problem between your access point and the printer, try one or more of the following:

Notes:

•For ad hoc networks, adjust the computer where the access point is indicated.

•Ad hoc networks have a much shorter range than infrastructure networks. Try moving the printer closer to the computer if they seem to have trouble communicating.

MOVE THE PRINTER CLOSER TO THE WIRELESS ACCESS POINT/WIRELESS ROUTER

If the printer is too far away from the access point, it will not be able to communicate with other devices on the network. For most indoor wireless networks, the maximum distance between the access point and the printer is approximately 100 feet (30 meters). This distance could be longer or shorter, depending upon the layout of the network and the limitations of the access point.

REMOVE OBSTACLES BETWEEN THE ACCESS POINT AND THE PRINTER

The wireless signal from your access point will pass through most objects. Most walls, floors, furniture and other objects will not block the wireless signal. However, there are materials that are too dense for the signal to pass through. Objects containing metal and concrete can block the signal, including:

•Cubicle walls

•Ducts

•Window frames

•Poles and interior support columns

•Metal office furniture and cabinets

•Elevators

•Steel doors

•Walls and other structural elements reinforced by rebar

Arrange your printer and access point so that the signal is not blocked by any of these objects.

REMOVE SOURCES OF INTERFERENCE

Other types of radio frequencies can cause problems with the wireless signal on your network. These sources of interference can cause printing issues that seem to come and go. Some common sources of interference are:

•Cordless phones

•Microwave ovens

•Refrigerators and other appliances

•Bluetooth devices

•Other wireless networks

•Motors

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