Photon2 not able to see WiFi networks

Connectivity
1

Hi

I have a number of Particle Photon 2s deployed at remote sites which connect to the internet via a Tenda N300 Wi-Fi 4G LTE router. When trying to connect to the Wifi network using the Configure Wi-Fi | Tools | Particle tool, I am usually/often not able to see the Wifi network provided by this router. I can connect to other Wifi networks without a problem (eg a hotspot created from my laptop or phone). Nearby Wifi networks are shown.

After several attempts to see the Wifi network, the Photon2 will show network and I can connect to it, but after a few hours it will drop off the network and not be able to reconnect, sitting with the flashing green LED as it searches for a Wifi network.

Any tips as to how to try debug this?

2

It sounds like the P2 does not have a good Wi-Fi signal to that access point.

Is the P2 in an enclosure? What material is it made of?

How is the enclosure mounted?

Using an external antenna would likely solve the problem, but if you are making a commercial product, it will likely require recertification.

You can be sure by logging the RSSI values during a WiFi.scan() or after connection.

3

Thanks, Rickkas. I initially wrote P2, but it's actually a Photon2. The Photon2 is in a plastic enclosure around 6-7ft from the access point. The enclosure for the Photon2 is mounted against a wall and there is free air between the router and the enclosure. I can try the external antenna, but I really don't think that's the issue because the Photon 2 can see other Wifi networks much further away than the router I am trying to connect to.

4

Hey, I had issues in the past with Photon 2's and Wi-Fi.

Two suggestions:

1- update DeviceOS to 5.9.0
2- I've heard rumors that some photon 2's came out of factory with the external antenna set, this can be an issue in the cases where the external antenna might not be connected. Ensure that this setting is not getting in the way by setting the antenna in firmware to what you are using on these devices.

Best of luck,

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