RSSI

RSSI is received signal strength indication. It is a generic radio receiver technology metric used to determine the strength of the link between a receiver and a transmitter. In the case of the NL241, RSSI is the measurement between the NL241 and a wireless access point. The strength of this link is recorded in dBm (power ratio in decibels) and can be found on the Wi-Fi tab in the Settings Editor of Device Configuration Utility.

RSSI in the NL241 is measured in a scale between –100 dBm and 0 dBm. The higher the number (for example, –12 dBm as compared to –72 dBm), the better the connection between Wi-Fi devices. A reliable connection will be maintained if the RSSI reading in the NL241 stays between –85 dBm and –15 dBm. A weak, and thus intermittent, connection will have readings between –85 dBm and –95 dBm. For every 3 dBm increase, the NL241 is receiving twice as much signal (radiated power). For every 3 dBm lost, the NL241 is receiving 50% less signal.

To improve your RSSI readings, shorten antenna cable lengths and use frequency-matched antennas with higher gain. An NL241 with a 0 db gain antenna can achieve ranges of up to 32 meters (120 feet) indoors and 95 meters (300 feet) outdoors. Ranges can be improved by installing higher gain antennas on both the NL241 and/or the wireless access point. Remember that RSSI can also be affected by weather, vegetation, terrain, interference, and antenna cable length and type.