FAQ: Improving Sensor Signal Strength & Connectivity
1. What is sensor signal strength, and why does it matter?
Sensor signal strength reflects how well your sensor communicates with the gateway. A strong signal ensures accurate data collection and conserves battery life. Weak signals can lead to missed readings and faster battery drain, as the sensor uses more power trying to stay connected.
2. What can cause poor signal strength?
Poor signal strength is usually caused by:
Obstructions: Thick walls, metal surfaces, or dense materials that block or absorb wireless signals.
Interference: Other devices or materials that disrupt radio frequency communication (e.g., large motors, Wi-Fi routers, microwaves).
3. How do I check a sensor’s signal strength?
Jolt Mobile App:
Open the Sensors page, select a sensor, and check the most recent signal strength reading.Jolt Web Portal:
Go to the Sensors, Dashboard, choose a location and sensor, and filter by Signal Strength under Reading Type.
4. How can I improve sensor signal strength and connectivity?
‼️ Make sure you wait 24h after trying the steps below:
✅ Reduce Interference
Test the Range: Move the sensor within 10–15 feet of the gateway, avoiding any physical barriers. If the signal remains weak, contact Jolt Support.
✅ Optimize Gateway Placement
Elevate the Gateway: Mount it as high as possible, away from obstructions like metal shelves or thick walls.
Relocate if Needed: Use a longer Ethernet cable to move the gateway closer to low-signal areas (e.g., walk-in freezers).
✅ Adjust the Antenna Properly
Laird (Blue) Gateways: Keep the long LoRa antenna vertical (facing straight up or down).
Multitech Gateways: If wall-mounted, angle antennas outward. For other antenna types, keep them vertical regardless of mount position.
✅ Use Sensor Probes Strategically
Reposition Sensors: If your sensor has a probe, place the main sensor body outside high-interference zones (like freezers) and run the probe inside.
✅ Consider Additional Hardware
Install Extra Gateways: If signal issues persist in large or complex locations, adding a second gateway may help. Try the above fixes first to avoid unnecessary hardware.
5. What if the signal is still weak?
If you’ve tried all of the above and are still seeing poor signal strength, reach out to Jolt Support. Our team can help diagnose the issue and recommend next steps.