Bluetooth signal quality on MacBook Pro

If you press the Option key then click the Bluetooth icon on your MacBook Pro then MacOS will show you the signal strength (RSSI) and other info about your Bluetooth devices. RSSI is the “Received Signal Strength Indicator” as explained by ChatGPT. The current RSSI for my bluetooth speakers is -67dBm, which ChatGPT explains:

An RSSI value of -67 dBm is generally considered a good signal strength when it comes to WiFi, and the same could be roughly said for Bluetooth and other wireless communication technologies. In terms of qualitative interpretation:

  • -30 to -50 dBm: Excellent signal strength. This is about as good as it gets. Usually, this is only seen when you’re very close to the access point or device.
  • -50 to -70 dBm: Good signal strength. For most general applications, this range provides a reliable, strong connection. Voice, streaming, and even video applications usually work well in this range.
  • -67 dBm: This specific value is often cited in WiFi scenarios as the minimum strength for reliable voice applications.
  • -70 to -90 dBm: Fair signal strength. The connection is more susceptible to interference and might not be reliable for all applications. Data rates will be lower, and minor obstructions can cause the signal to drop.
  • Below -90 dBm: Poor signal strength. The connection is unreliable and might drop frequently. It’s challenging to maintain a stable connection in this range.

So, an RSSI of -67 dBm is generally good for most applications, including voice and streaming. However, the actual performance can vary based on the specific wireless technology in use, the environment (presence of physical obstructions, other interfering signals), and the application’s specific requirements.

Fuse access

I rewired my ATX power supply breakout board so that I would have ready access to the fuses. Probably gonna blow a few of those! The fuses are 5A 250V fast blow (F5A250V) so I can’t draw more than 60 Watts (at 12V). You can see in the previous post and the picture at the bottom of this post that the terminals used to be connected above the fuses, impeding access.

The ATX power supply breakout board is a Geekcreit® XH-M229 Desktop Computer Chassis Power Supply Module ATX Transfer Board Power Output Terminal Module.

This is the new setup:
ATX power supply breakout board with 3.3V, 5V, and 12V wiring

This is the old setup:
Previously the fuses weren't accessible

Bluetooth!

For a long while now I have been having intermittent problems with the audio in my lab. I stream the GoaPsy channel from di.fm, and I really love it, but not when there’s skipping! I figured the problem was related to latency and jitter on my broadband connection, and if so, there was little to be done, except to wait for network conditions at my ISP to change.

But this evening I noticed that when I sat close in to my workstation to type the skipping would start. Then if I moved back in my chair, it would stop. I found I could actually cause the skipping to start or stop just by moving around in my chair!

Turns out the problem wasn’t my internet connection, the problem was the bluetooth connection between my laptop and my speakers! To fix the problem I got underneath my desk and moved my sub woofer about one foot to the left. Now when I move around in my chair my music doesn’t skip anymore! Happy days!

Early Content #8: Making Input Power Cable for EBD-A20H Battery Tester | In The Lab With Jay Jay

This post is part of my video blog and you can find more information about this video on this show’s homepage which is here.

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In this video I make an input power cable for my ZKE Tech EBD-A20H Battery Tester and Electronic Load. This power cable connects a DC female input to four male banana plugs, two positive, two negative. This power cable can be used to connect a power source for testing by the EBD-A20H.

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Following is a product I use picked at random from my collection which may appear in my videos. Clicking through on this to find and click on the green affiliate links before purchasing from eBay or AliExpress is a great way to support the channel at no cost to you. Thanks!

Yum Cha Dual-Purpose Sanding StickThis is an image of the product.notes

Let’s go shopping!

Early Content #7: Sorting Soldering Iron Tips | Learning Electronics In The Lab With Jay Jay

This post is part of my video blog and you can find more information about this video on this show’s homepage which is here.

You can support this channel on Patreon: patreon.com/JohnElliotV

I was watching EEVblog #168 – How To Set Up An Electronics Lab and Dave suggested using chisel tips instead of conical tips, which inspired me to check what I was using and also to sort the tips I presently own into three categories:

  • Chisel tips
  • Other tips
  • Conical tips

If you’re interested in soldering temperatures I wrote a follow-up post on that topic: soldering iron temperature.

Thanks very much for watching! And please remember to hit like and subscribe!


Following is a product I use picked at random from my collection which may appear in my videos. Clicking through on this to find and click on the green affiliate links before purchasing from eBay or AliExpress is a great way to support the channel at no cost to you. Thanks!

Yum Cha 10pcs Magic Foam SpongeThis is an image of the product.notes

Let’s go shopping!

Fluke VoltAlert

I was watching this old EEVBlog video: EEVblog #168 – How To Set Up An Electronics Lab and Dave recommended a Fluke VoltAlert. I discovered there are various versions, such as the 1AC and 2AC, and those alternatives are explained here: Best Non-Contact Voltage Tester.

The Fluke 1AC II Non-Contact Voltage Tester looked like a pretty good one for my purposes and I found one on eBay for AUD$35.40 so I hit the buy button.