Is there any fix to poor signal?

[Ilmbg]

I just bought a ipad 3.
I have a 4-5 year old HP Mini.
The signal strength on the ipad is less than the cheap HP! I have read many posts about this being a common problem early in 2012. Has it been addressed? It makes no difference if I take the cover off or leave it on. The difference is so significant that I cannot use the ipad in the livinroom. I have to bee in the bedroom, about 12-15 feet closer to wireless router. I am disappointed.

 

[The OB]

I just bought a ipad 3.
I have a 4-5 year old HP Mini.
The signal strength on the ipad is less than the cheap HP! I have read many posts about this being a common problem early in 2012. Has it been addressed? It makes no difference if I take the cover off or leave it on. The difference is so significant that I cannot use the ipad in the livinroom. I have to bee in the bedroom, about 12-15 feet closer to wireless router. I am disappointed.

Hi Ilmbg. If it's not possible to shift the router to a more central position in the house, and experiment with signal strength that way, I would suggest buying a signal enhancer unit. Amazon.uk have models at quite reasonable prices. Just google "WiFi repeater" or "Range extender" and see what you can buy in London
Regards, Andrew

 

[berberry]

I just bought a ipad 3.
I have a 4-5 year old HP Mini.
The signal strength on the ipad is less than the cheap HP! I have read many posts about this being a common problem early in 2012. Has it been addressed? It makes no difference if I take the cover off or leave it on. The difference is so significant that I cannot use the ipad in the livinroom. I have to bee in the bedroom, about 12-15 feet closer to wireless router. I am disappointed.

Before you buy a new repeater or access point, you might want to google 'dd-wrt'. It's a free firmware program that can run on many common home wifi routers, including most popular older models, and effectively convert them into repeaters or access points. The reason you might want to do that is to save some money. Dedicated hardware for these tasks can be expensive, but used routers are not.

Nearly a year ago I had the same problem you describe, and dd-wrt completely solved it for me. Using the software is a bit technical, but there's a HUGE user base supporting it on the dedicated forum, and an excellent wiki with step-x-step setup instructions for popular routers.

AxE: Oops, forgot to say that my suggestion relates to the idea of acquiring a second router to enhance the wifi coverage area in your home. This would not replace your current setup, but add to it.

 

[noodle24]

You could try updgrading to a new router that is more compliant with modern technologies like the iPad.

 

[Wolfpuppies3]

Is your router 802 g/b/n? If it will transmit at n speeds, your iPad can certainly receive at that speed. If your router is more than a couple of years old, it needs replacing.