Power mismatches between access points (APs) and client devices pose a variety of challenges for wireless networks. These mismatches shorten communication range and decrease signal strength, resulting in a signal that is too weak to be received properly.
In his WLPC Prague 2024 session, AccelTex Antenna Product Manager and Engineer Connor Burke discusses how higher gain antennas address Tx power mismatch between APs and client devices through bidirectional range increase. Join us as we explore how to measure output from antennas and APs, how Tx power mismatch affects different devices, and our solutions for this common wireless challenge.
What is Tx power mismatch?
A Tx power mismatch occurs when two communicating wireless devices (usually an access point and a client device) have different transmit strengths. One device sends out a much stronger signal than the other. This creates a communication imbalance that leads to poor roaming or dropped connections.
Why do APs and client antennas experience Tx power mismatch?
A few of the most common causes of Tx power mismatch include differences in device type, configuration, and environment.
Different types of devices
Tx power capability often varies by device. For example, an iPhone has less Tx power capability than a tablet or laptop because of its smaller size and rated amperage of its charger. APs are typically designed with very powerful antennas or amplifiers, and it can be difficult for smaller devices to match their signal.
AP configuration
Improperly configured APs with high transmit power can overwhelm devices with weaker signals. This causes interference that makes it difficult for both devices to communicate and transmit data.
Environment
Walls, floors, buildings, and other environmental factors can weaken signals, creating a mismatch between the AP’s intended range and the reach of the client device.
How does Tx power mismatch affect network performance?
Tx power mismatch can impact network performance in a variety of ways, including the following:
- Coverage issues
- Poor load balancing and roaming
- Interference
- Decreased device battery life
AccelTex higher gain antennas: your Tx power mismatch solution
AccelTex higher gain antennas help mitigate transmit power mismatches by providing a bidirectional signal increase. Think of these antennas like megaphones. They can both increase the signal strength of APs (talking louder) and also detect lower signals client devices at the same ERP (hearing better).
Our antennas direct transmitted power towards the intended receiver, while also compensating for potential power discrepancies between the transmitting and receiving devices. The concentrated beam delivers a stronger signal at the target location, mitigating the impact of a weaker transmitter.
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Watch the full talk
Want to learn more about the effects of Tx power mismatch? Watch the full talk below to uncover strategies for resolving Tx power mismatch and real-world use cases that show higher gain antennas in action.
