WiFi killed by baby alarms and TV

Posted on 11 May 2009 at 11:54

Baby monitors and other domestic wireless devices are causing problems with WiFi connections. When your PC can detect your wireless router (and even report a good signal) but can't connect to it, the chances are that a deregulated wireless gadget is causing enough interference to cause WiFi failure. This is contrary to the popular belief that nearby WiFi routers are the prime suspects.

A report commissioned by Ofcom found that the main problem is caused by non-WiFi interference rather than too many wireless networks fighting for airspace. Although many problems were diagnosed as being related to the wired part of the network, such as faulty ADSL connections or even unavailable servers on the internet, issues with wirelessly transmitted data were found to be caused by non-WiFi equipment. "Where the users' problems are spectrum-related they tend to be due to interference between devices in the 2.4 GHz ISM band rather than congestion, as was initially believed," said the report.

The solution is a certification scheme, according to the report's author. "Some non-WiFi devices already sport 'WiFi-friendly' claims on their datasheets. We propose extending this concept to a '2.4 GHz friendly' logo, which would help drive acceptance of innovative technologies in this band," said Mass Consultants.

WiFi works using the 2.4GHz band of radio frequencies, which extends up to 2.483GHz. It is intended to be used for WiFi, Voice over IP and gaming networks, as well as remote control units, security cameras, audio visual senders (that allow you to rebroadcast TV programmes from one room to another) and baby monitors. Microwave ovens can also emit waves in this frequency range.

Author: Simon Edwards

Get more reviews, tutorials and in-depth advice, every month with Computer Shopper.
Click here to try 3 issues for £1

< Previous News : Networking Next >

Be the first to comment on this article

You need to Login or Register to comment.