What is RSSI?
RSSI stands for Received Signal Strength Indicator. It's a measurement of how strong a Bluetooth signal is when it reaches your phone.
How RSSI is Measured
RSSI is measured in decibels relative to one milliwatt (dBm):
- Values are typically negative
- Closer to 0 = stronger signal
- More negative = weaker signal
RSSI Range Guide
| RSSI Value | Signal Strength | Approximate Distance |
|------------|-----------------|---------------------|
| -30 to -50 | Excellent | Less than 1 meter |
| -50 to -60 | Very Good | 1-2 meters |
| -60 to -70 | Good | 2-5 meters |
| -70 to -80 | Fair | 5-10 meters |
| -80 to -90 | Weak | 10+ meters |
| Below -90 | Very Weak | Far or obstructed |
Factors Affecting Signal Strength
Several things can impact RSSI:
Physical Obstacles
- Walls reduce signal by 3-10 dBm
- Metal objects block more signal
- Water (including human bodies) absorbs signal
Device Factors
- Battery level of the Bluetooth device
- Antenna design and quality
- Bluetooth version (BLE 5.0 is more efficient)
Environmental Interference
- Other Bluetooth devices
- WiFi networks (same 2.4GHz band)
- Microwaves and other electronics
Using RSSI to Find Devices
The Walk-and-Watch Method
- Open FindMyGear
- Note the initial RSSI value
- Walk in one direction
- If RSSI increases (less negative), continue
- If RSSI decreases (more negative), turn around
The Grid Search
For larger areas:
- Divide the area into sections
- Stand in center of each section
- Record RSSI values
- Focus on section with strongest signal
Pro Tips for Accurate Finding
- **Move slowly** - RSSI updates take time
- **Hold phone consistently** - Same height and orientation
- **Check multiple angles** - Signal can be directional
- **Account for delays** - Wait 2-3 seconds between readings
Conclusion
Understanding RSSI helps you find devices more efficiently. With FindMyGear's real-time signal strength display, you can use these principles to locate any Bluetooth device quickly and accurately.