FAQ Which mobile reception values are relevant for good data transmission?


3G mobile network (UMTS / HSPA / HSPA+)

ALERT! The 3G mobile network has already been shut down in Germany.
Data transmission in the 3G mobile network depends on the current signal strength (RSSI). The current signal strength can be read out in the cellular router, see e.g:
mdex MX760 & Advantech router: Status MOVED TO... Mobile WAN
MX760_3G.png
Status MOVED TO... Network: Mobile
MX880_3G.png

RSSI (Signal strength)

The 'Received Signal Strength Indicator' (RSSI) shows the current signal strength.
RSSI Data transmission
RSSI-3G.png Very good reception with optimal data transmission
Good data transmission without serious dropouts or interference.
Data transmission is possible with restrictions (low bandwidth). 1
Disturbed data transmission with dropouts, aborts and long packet transit times. 1
No connection establishment and no data transmission possible any more. 1

1 Stable data transmission with high bandwidths is not possible. Reception should be improved:

  • When used inside buildings, radio waves are absorbed and reflected. The antennas should therefore be placed as close as possible to a window facing the transmitter mast.
  • Antennas should always be placed as high as possible and ideally free-standing.
  • Magnetic base antennas have a better effect if they are fixed to a metal surface (e.g. radiator, metal cabinet, etc.).
  • In isolated rooms and in locations with very weak reception levels, an outdoor antenna should be used.
  • Cellular routers usually have 2 antenna connections (MAIN & AUX, ANT & DIV, etc.). Especially in mobile use (e.g. in vehicles), both mobile radio antennas should be connected.


2G mobile network (GPRS / EDGE)

Data transmission in the 2G mobile network depends on the current signal strength (RSSI). The current signal strength can be read out in the cellular router, see e.g:
mdex MX760 & Advantech router: Status MOVED TO... Mobile WAN
MX760_2G.png
Status MOVED TO... Network: Mobile
MX880_2G.png

RSSI (Signal strength)

The 'Received Signal Strength Indicator' (RSSI) shows the current signal strength.
RSSI Data transmission
RSSI-2G.png Very good reception with optimal data transmission
Good data transmission without serious dropouts or interference.
Data transmission is possible with restrictions (low bandwidth). 1
Disturbed data transmission with dropouts, aborts and long packet transit times. 1
No connection establishment and no data transmission possible any more. 1

1 Stable data transmission with high bandwidths is not possible. Reception should be improved:

  • When used inside buildings, radio waves are absorbed and reflected. The antennas should therefore be placed as close as possible to a window facing the transmitter mast.
  • Antennas should always be placed as high as possible and ideally free-standing.
  • Magnetic base antennas have a better effect if they are fixed to a metal surface (e.g. radiator, metal cabinet, etc.).
  • In isolated rooms and in locations with very weak reception levels, an outdoor antenna should be used.
  • Cellular routers usually have 2 antenna connections (MAIN & AUX, ANT & DIV, etc.). Especially in mobile use (e.g. in vehicles), both mobile radio antennas should be connected.