To optimize the placement of a 5G repeater in a small apartment, consider these practices:
* Height and Orientation Place the repeater at a similar height to the main router, around 4 feet high, to help it receive a better signal[1]. Elevate the router to about two meters from the ground to prevent signal blockage from furniture[2]. Position the repeater to face towards the main router for optimal signal reception and broadcasting[1]. If the repeater has external antennas, orient them vertically[1][4]. If there are two antennas, place them at a 90-degree angle; for three antennas, use a 45-degree angle[6].
* Distance Positioning is very important, place the Wi-Fi repeater where you already have a Wi-Fi signal[3]. For a repeater with an external antenna, place it 25 to 40 feet away from the main router if there are almost no obstacles and the router's signal is still good at 40 feet[1]. If the repeater has an internal antenna, position it 20 to 35 feet away[1].
* Obstacles and Interference Avoid placing the repeater behind blockers and dampeners[2]. Keep the router away from walls and obstructions to prevent interference and overheating[4]. Ensure there are no significant obstacles, such as reinforced concrete, in the path of the Wi-Fi waves[6]. Avoid objects that reflect signals (mirrors, metal) or absorb them (walls, cabinets)[1]. Also, keep the repeater away from other electronics that emit radio-frequency signals, like microwaves, cordless phones, and refrigerators[1][6].
* Power and Adjustability Use a power strip to plug in the repeater, making it easier to adjust its height, antenna angle, direction, and distance[1].
* Alternative Mode If obstacles or distance prevent a stable wireless connection, place the repeater closer to where the Wi-Fi signal is needed[1]. Run an Ethernet cable from the router to the repeater and switch the repeater to AP mode to ensure a strong, stable Wi-Fi signal[1].
Citations:
[1] https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/faq/3103/
[2] https://www.choice.com.au/electronics-and-technology/internet/connecting-to-the-internet/articles/the-best-place-to-put-your-wi-fi-router
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWhXzgWtkG8
[4] https://www.pcmag.com/how-to/10-ways-to-boost-your-wi-fi-signal
[5] https://www.weboost.com/blog/how-to-boost-cell-phone-reception-in-your-apartment
[6] https://www.sailskywifi.com/5g-wireless-router/
[7] https://forum.gl-inet.com/t/best-strategy-to-extend-wifi-coverage-in-the-whole-house/34850
[8] https://www.wilsonpro.com/blog/optimizing-your-cell-phone-signal-booster
[9] https://www.hiboost.com/blogs/news/how-to-boost-cell-signal-in-your-apartment