Absolute Beginners Frustration

[hhornig]

Here I was up in the spare bedroom trying to set up a new iPad that I plan to give to my wife on Christmas and I can't get the WiFi to consistently operate. The MacBook is sitting right beside me working like a charm. I called Apple Care and I am sitting there thinking I can't remember the WiFi password and the Apple tech tells me that I need to find another WiFi source and see if that works or take it to an Apple store. Fortunately my wife goes to sleep and I move to a room closer to my router and everything works fine.

After joining this forum, I read in the first thread that I am supposed to read that this is a common problem. Now why doesn't all Apple Care representative know about this and give proper instructions? Better yet, why doesn't Apple repair the problem?

 

[scifan57]

Have you tried resetting the router? If that doesn't work, you could reset all settings. To do that, go to Settings>General>Reset>Reset All Settings. You won't lose any data but you will have to re-enter your preferred settings and website passwords.

Let us know if either solution gives you normal WiFi reception on your new iPad.

 

[hhornig]

Have you tried resetting the router? If that doesn't work, you could reset all settings. To do that, go to Settings>General>Reset>Reset All Settings. You won't lose any data but you will have to re-enter your preferred settings and website passwords.

Let us know if either solution gives you normal WiFi reception on your new iPad.

I have done both and it still is not as good as the MacBook in the spare bedroom. It is useable elsewhere in the house.

 

[twerppoet]

The iPad does not have as good of wi-fi reception as most laptops. It is mostly about the size and position of the antenna. Laptops have a lot more room and choices design wise.

That's not to say it isn't a problem that Apple couldn't fix. Only that they are unwilling to make the other tradeoffs that would gove the iPad similar ranges as laptops. Things like bulk, case materials, space for battery, etc.

Most tablets that have better range compromise on one or more of these.

Possible solutions would be a router with better range, relocating the router, or wi-fi network extenders (if your house is largish). You probably don't want to hear or deal with that, but it's what it is.

I do agree, the technician should have caught the possibility that you had a weak signal and needed to move closer to the router. I'd add that to your support feedback. Not to get back at the tech. Everyone has a bad day. But in case it helps the next person.

 

[smalltowngirl13]

Welcome aboard and sounds like a nice Xmas present you are giving your wife ...