Tips and Tricks for Connectivity
When using laptops with air cards (Verizon or Sprint)
- Make sure your wireless antenna is turned on. Sometimes this switch or button is accidentally turned off. The wireless switch is usually found at the front of the laptop and the wireless button is usually found on the keyboard. (Your laptop will only have one, not both) Either move the switch to the left or right to turn it on, or press the wireless button to turn the wireless back on.
- Work near a window. The walls and ceilings of buildings often block wireless signals, resulting in poor reception.
- Keep the laptop plugged in, so it devotes more energy to staying connected.
- Move away from sources of wireless interference, such as microwaves, cordless phones, baby monitors, and wireless routers. The signals these devices emit can interfere with the signal your laptop needs to receive for good reception.
- Power cycle your laptop if connection doesn't improve after moving away from potential obstructions. To power cycle, take out your laptop’s battery while the device is still on. (Make sure to save documents that are open) Replace the battery after three seconds or more, then turn your laptop back on.