Ask Slashdot: Overcoming Convention Hall Wi-Fi Interference?

bbowman writes "One of my job responsibilities is to set up the small network for our company's exhibit at the trade shows we attend. The mobile demo devices we use depend upon a reliable Wi-Fi connection to a router I have in the exhibit. In the days leading up to the opening of the trade show, W-iFi connections are reliable and work as expected. However, as soon as the show opens none of our devices can reliable maintain a Wi-Fi connection to the router. The devices we use at the trade shows are Windows-based laptops, iPods/iPads, Android tablets, and a variety of Wi-Fi enabled cell phones. I have tried using channels 1, 6, and 11 (as well as the others) and used different routers (Linksys, D-Link, Netgear) without success. I'm sure it is likely that there are poorly insulated electrical cabling, fluorescent lighting, and other issues that would contribute to Wi-Fi interference in the convention hall. A quick scan shows dozens and dozens of discoverable Wi-Fi networks nearby. If I take the router back to my hotel room, I have zero connection problems. How can I overcome this so that Wi-Fi works reliably in the convention hall?"

Just ask What would Jobs do?

[arcite]

Then stand up and announce on the loud speaker in a polite English accent to everyone; "So you guys have a choice: Either turn off your Wi-Fi (devices) or I give up. Would you like to see the demos?" ......"Then all you bloggers need to turn off your notebooks. Go ahead, just shut the lids. I'll wait," he said.

I'm sure everyone will understand.

Re:Get ye some 802.11a.

[Anonymous Coward]

Alternatively, install a giant metal Faraday cage. (Good luck with that.)

I second this. We had one of those cheap plastic Faraday cages, and it did not work worth crap. Last time I try to pinch pennies with the Faraday cage I tell ya.

Re:Get ye some 802.11a.

[Culture20]

I second this. We had one of those cheap plastic Faraday cages, and it did not work worth crap. Last time I try to pinch pennies with the Faraday cage I tell ya.

Unless he bites, it's often easier to just put your Faraday on a leash.