To optimize the placement of a 5G repeater (also known as a range extender) in your home, consider the following tips:
1. Distance from the main router:
* For range extenders with external antennas, position the repeater 25 to 40 feet away from the main router if there are few obstacles and the router signal is still good at that distance[1].
* If the repeater has internal antennas, place it 20 to 35 feet away from the main router[1].
* If there are walls or obstacles between the repeater and the main router, experiment with placement to find the best balance of signal reception and coverage[1].
2. Height:
* Place the range extender at a similar height to the main router, around 4 feet high, to help it receive a better signal[1].
* Elevate the router by placing it on a table or shelf for better transmission[3].
3. Antenna position:
* Position the antennas vertically to ensure the extender receives and transfers data effectively[1].
4. Minimize obstacles:
* Avoid placing the repeater near objects that can reflect or absorb signals, such as mirrors, large metal objects, walls, cabinets, or masonry[1].
* Keep the repeater away from devices that emit radio-frequency interference, like microwave ovens, cordless phones, refrigerators, and baby monitors[1].
5. Direction:
* Position the extender to face the main router for optimal signal reception and broadcasting[1].
6. Central location:
* Place the router in a central location within your home to evenly distribute the signal[3][4]. Avoid placing the router in a corner, as Wi-Fi signals broadcast in all directions[4].
7. Power Strip:
* Using a power strip can help in adjusting the repeater's height, antenna angle, and direction[1].
8. AP Mode:
* If a stable wireless connection cannot be established due to obstacles or distance, position the repeater closer to where the Wi-Fi signal is needed and connect it to the router using an Ethernet cable. Then, switch the repeater to AP mode[1].
Additionally, to find the best location for a 5G router, you can use cellmapper.net to check the locations of local masts, which can help determine optimal router placement[8]. You can also identify cell tower locations using websites like AntennaSearch or the FCC's Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) system, or cell tower map apps like Cell Tower Locator (Android) and OpenSignal (iOS)[6].
Citations:
[1] https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/3103/
[2] https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-ways-to-boost-your-wi-fi-signal
[3] https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/455/
[4] https://www.tp-link.com/pk/blog/87/6-tips-on-where-to-place-your-wireless-router-for-the-best-signal-coverage/
[5] https://telconews.com.au/story/top-ten-tips-for-boosting-wi-fi-range-in-large-homes
[6] https://www.ubersignal.com/blogs/articles/cell-tower-locations
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctZtBbCJwoE
[8] https://www.ispreview.co.uk/talk/threads/how-to-find-the-best-place-for-a-5g-router.39498/