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@TID: PyGate/Linux 1.5.13
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Subject: Re: How to wake up the WiFi on a Zero 2W (it was
working but has stopped)
On 18/03/2026 13:56, Chris Green wrote:
> The Natural Philosopher <
tnp@invalid.invalid> wrote:
>> On 18/03/2026 12:55, Chris Green wrote:
>>> I have a new[ish] Pi Zero 2W running in a building close to our house
>>> (close means about 30 yards away). When I installed it I configured
>>> one of the possible WiFi SSIDs with rpi-imager, then after installing
>>> I added the other possible SSID (using nmcli I think).
>>>
>>> It has run quite happily for a few days but as of yesterday afternoon
>>> shows no sign of being connected.
>>>
>>> I have tried restarting it, no effect. I have checked both of the
>>> routers it might connect to and they`re both running and haven`t
>>> moved. I`ve even moved one of them into what is effectively line of
>>> sight to the Zero 2W. Still no connection.
>>>
>>> What might be wrong and what can I do to get it to connect?
>>>
>> Bring it in and put a terminal and keyboard on it so you can look at the
>> logs.
>>
> That`s not very easy, it`s a bit of a `fixed` installation. It might
> be easier to move one of the routers nearer to it.
>
Well keyboards are portable enough. HDMI screen - not so much.
>> I have a 30 metre pi Pico and it connects anywhere between -80dM and
>> `not at all` for no visible reason - maybe its leaves blowing in the
>> wind. I dunno.
>>
>> Right now its a happy little -84dBm. Its having a good day.
>>
>> 30 metres is pretty tough for a pi.
>>
> I just checked the WiFi signal strength using an Android tablet right
> next to the Pi Zero and the better of the two SSIDs is around -70dBM
> so it **should** be OK I would have thought.
>
I get up to 20dB variation. Try rebooting it and see if you can get it
back on target
--
Climate is what you expect but weather is what you get.
Mark Twain
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