3802E weaker 5GHz

[DJX995]

The power level on 2.4GHz is 22dBm.

The power level on 5GHz is 23dBm.

Scanning around with a WiFi analyzer I consistently see the 5GHz signal -10 lower than the 2.4GHz.

Even line of sight.

Is this a defective 3802E?

[Philip D'Ath]

This sounds like expected behaviour to me.

[DJX995]

I forgot to mention that the antennas are: 

AIR-ANT2535SDW-R

Which should have 5dB gain on 5GHz and 3dB gain on 2.4GHz.

So, I don't understand.

I have more power and more antenna gain on 5GHz but a weaker signal?

[Philip D'Ath]

The 5Ghz band looses signal faster the the 2.4Ghz band.  If you go far enough way, you should be able to reach a point where you can't get a 5Ghz connection but can still get a 2.4Ghz connection.

[DJX995]

Even with a total of 28dBm (with antenna gain factored in) on 5GHz vs 25dBm (with antenna gain) on the 2.4GHz side?

[Scott Fella]

Even if you match the power or legs say EIRP or even go 6dbi lower on the 2.4ghz, the lower the frequency the less susceptible to attenuation.  

-Scott 

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[DJX995]

So you agree that the AP is good/acting normal?

Even line of sight, say 20ft, to see this difference?

[Scott Fella]

What are you using to capture the RSSI/SNR/Noise?  Line of sight you see signal like -67dbm or better on both.  When you go further out, the 2.4ghz will extend further than the 5ghz  they will never be the same.  

-Scott 

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[DJX995]

Just using some free WiFi analyzer on a smart phone. Is there another preferred application to use (PC or Android)?

I see the -10dBm difference line of sight and it gets worse the further away you go.

I thought the point of the new "B" regulatory domain was to put 5GHz on par with 2.4GHz by increasing the power level.

[Scott Fella · Accepted solution]

If your signal is still -67 or better on the 5ghz when 20 feet away, then that is good. Don't compare the signal of the 2.4ghz vs 5ghz because the 2.4ghz is a lower frequency.

-Scott 

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