One of the main problems when using PLC devices is slow internet connection. This, logically, can affect the proper use we make of the connection. There are different reasons, as we will see. Also some recommendations to take into account. At Actelser we do not always recommend the use of PLCs as they will never transmit 100% of the connectivity, but in this article we wanted to compile the main failures of PLCs to offer you a first aid kit.
Using PLCs in a power strip
This is one of the most common mistakes users make, and it certainly greatly affects the performance of PLC devices. If we use a power strip and connect the devices there, we can see a significant decrease in performance. After all, we are not connected directly to the electricity, but through another device.
Therefore, our advice to avoid problems with PLC devices is to connect the device directly to the electrical network. Power strips and similar devices, which could significantly affect proper operation, should be avoided.
Problems with electrical wiring
Beyond being able to have problems with power strips, it could also be due to a poor condition of the electrical wiring. This fact could affect Internet speed and connection stability. If we are connecting the PLC to old or faulty wiring, we could have these types of problems.
In this case, the solution would be more complex, since we would depend on the entire electrical connection of the house. If we see that the problem is significant and persistent, we would have to opt for other devices to improve the wireless connection.
Too far from the router
It can also happen that we are simply too far from the router. Although PLC devices can cover a large area, the truth is that the further away we are from the access point, the more problems we can have.
What we could do in this case is try to put the PLC devices closer to the router. This reduces the risk of some type of problem and we could always connect via a LAN cable that we can place.
Bad configuration with PLCs
Many PLC devices allow some configuration changes. We can even do it from the mobile application. One of these options is the improvement in terms of energy saving. However, it may be causing problems and making the speed that arrives very limited.
Therefore, an issue to take into account is to enter the configuration of the PLC devices, if this option is available, and see if we have something misconfigured. Especially, we must observe if we have the energy saving mode activated.
We are using the wrong band
As we know, wireless networks today allow us to connect through the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Each has its positive and negative points. For example, the former is the most suitable when we are going to connect from a considerable distance, although it offers lower speed. On the other hand, the 5 GHz band is the fastest, although more sensitive to obstacles and distance.
It is possible that we are connected to the wrong band or that it is not the most optimal in certain circumstances. We can simply try changing bands and see if the signal speed improves. It is very common for PLC devices to be dual-band.
The LAN cable is bad
Many PLC devices allow us to connect both by LAN cable and Wi-Fi. In the first case, it is essential that we are using a compatible cable that allows Gigabit Ethernet. Otherwise, we would have limited speed and could have navigation problems.
That is why we must pay close attention to the type of Ethernet cable we are using. It must be in good condition and of course have the correct category to be compatible with maximum speed. This way we can connect our equipment by network cable and not have performance problems.
In short, these are some tips we can give to try to solve problems with PLC devices. We must avoid failures that can harm the speed and stability of the connection. In this way we can navigate normally, without interruptions appearing.
PLCs are a bit unpredictable
The truth is that a priori you never know what performance you will be able to get from your PLC repeaters, there are many factors at play in each house and the only way to know is to risk trying. It is for this reason that they are not a good option if you are looking to hit the nail on the head the first time and get 100% of the connectivity you pay for at home. They are an option if you want to improvise and try your luck. As for wiring, there is nothing, that's why we like the Plastic Fiber option so much, but if you can't, PLCs can be your option.
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