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DSL-G684T Wireless ADSL Router User Guide
Location and Wireless Operation
Many physical environmental factors can impact wireless networks. Radio waves are used to carry the encoded data
between devices. These radio transmissions can become degraded due to signal attenuation, multi-path distortion and
interference or noise. Attenuation simply means that the strength of the signal weakens with the distance it travels, even
if the transmission path is unobstructed. Multi-path distortion occurs when radio signals bounce off objects like walls,
ceilings, metal appliances, etc. This may cause a signal to be duplicated, with each separate yet identical signal arriving
at a receiver at different times. Interference and noise from electrical devices such as microwave ovens, fluorescent
lights, automobile engines and other radio emitting devices can cause signal degradation. With all this in mind, choose a
location for all your access points including the DSL-G684T.
The access point can be placed on a shelf or desktop, ideally you should be able to see the LED indicators on the front if
you need to view them for troubleshooting.
Wireless networking lets you access your network from nearly anywhere you want. However, the number of walls,
ceilings, or other objects that the wireless signals must pass through can limit signal range. Typical ranges vary
depending on the types of materials and background RF noise in your home or business. To range and signal strength,
use these basic guidelines:
1. Keep the number of walls and ceilings to a minimum: The signal emitted from Wireless LAN devices can
penetrate through ceilings and walls. However, each wall or ceiling can reduce the range of Wireless LAN
devices from 1 to 30M. Position your wireless devices so that the number of walls or ceilings obstructing the
signal path is minimized.
2. Consider the direct line between access points and workstations: A wall that is 0.5 meters thick, at a 45-
degree angle appears to be almost 1 meter thick. At a 2-degree angle, it is over 14 meters thick. Be careful to
position access points and client adapters so the signal can travel straight through (90º angle) a wall or ceiling
for better reception.
3. Building Materials make a difference: Buildings constructed using metal framing or doors can reduce
effective range of the device. If possible, position wireless devices so that their signal can pass through drywall
or open doorways, avoid positioning them so that their signal must pass through metallic materials. Poured
concrete walls are reinforced with steel while cinderblock walls generally have little or no structural steel.
4. Position the antennas for best reception: Play around with the antenna position to see if signal strength
improves. Some adapters or access points allow the user to judge the strength of the signal.
5. Keep your product away (at least 1-2 meters) from electrical devices: Position wireless devices away from
electrical devices that generate RF noise such as microwave ovens, monitors, electric motors, etc.
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