Tag Archives: bluetooth

Bluetooth signal quality on MacBook Pro

Posted on by
Reply

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.

Bluetooth!

Posted on by
Reply

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!