Inspect the installation locations on-site and verify your Thread network plan:

  • Is access to 230 V power and to Ethernet network available and within max. cable reach?
  • Is the next device in a signal path visible from the previous device? Is there a clear line of sight without any obstacles between devices?
  • Are there any changes or obstacles you did not consider in your off-site planning?
  • Are there any other wireless networks or devices which can cause interference?
  • Is the Thread signal strength sufficient?
  • Is the Thread network planning robust enough for an operational building (with more people, wireless devices, etc.)?

Testing Signal Strength

The Thread range testing app can be used on a smartphone to verify and measure signal strength. The signal strength is measured in decibels relative to a milliwatt and is represented in –dBm format (0 to -100). The higher the value, the stronger is the signal. Minimum signal strength for reliable packet delivery is approximately -70 dBm.

  • Install and open the Thread Range test app on your smartphone (Android only).
  • Connect the Thread dongle to your smartphone.
  • Pair the Thread Range test app to another Thread device (e.g. a TME).
  • Monitor and log the Thread signal strength.
  • Check Thread signal strength.
    • If the Thread signal strength is strong enough: Write down the signal strength on your Thread network plan and proceed to the next device for the range test.
    • If Thread signal strength is not strong enough: Adjust Thread network configuration or environment parameters and repeat the Thread signal strength test.
  • Save the Thread signal strength log.
  • Export the Thread signal strength log and add it to project documentation.

Interfering Signals

A signal scan can reveal interfering radio signals from WiFi and other sources.

  • Install a WLAN network analyzer tool on your Windows PC or Android smartphone.
  • Start scanning for WLAN SSIDs on-site.
    You can begin to get a general idea of network load on the 2.4 GHz band based on the number of identified SSIS.
  • Start scanning for WLAN channel usage.
    The load on specific WLAN channels and signal strength help identify potential channels for the Thread network.

The figure below illustrates WLAN and Thread channels overlap.

WLAN and Thread channel overlapping