SmartSDR Locks Up Intermittently on iPad on Fast 5Ghz WiFi

Rick - W5FCX

Using SmartSDR for iOS on a fast WiFi network results in intermittent lockups every few seconds. The entire app display freezes for up to two seconds and audio stops, then suddenly takes off running normal for a couple of seconds. Running on a slow WiFi network works fine. Also, why doesn’t the iPad app provide the same SmartLink connection option as it does on the iPhone? I have already tried the various Net, reduced update rates, background update changes recommended in related posts. I’m on an iPad Air 2 on iOS 11.1.

Jim Gilliam

Have you gone to Settings and pressed "check Smartlink status?"

Rick - W5FCX

Yes. That enabled SmartLink but it doesn’t connect to the radio when selected. Works great on iPhone on same WiFi network. Beginning to think this iPad is no good.

Rick - W5FCX

Yes. It says SmartLink is okay.

Larry _ NY8T

When i was running my linksys router i had to use 802.11 g @ 2.4 Ghz to stop the stuttering. The asus router i have now works fine on the fastest settings.

Rick - W5FCX

I tried an old linksys router I have connected upstairs for my security cameras and it works perfectly over the VPN. Very odd that the slow WiFi works while the high speed WiFi fails. Must be a timing bug in the app that can’t handle the faster I/O rates. Still unable to connect via Upnp channel... but at least I’m up now on the iPad.

Rob Fissel

This whole WLAN thing is a fad anyway. Full of problems. You need to hardwire your iPad to Ethernet. I do all the time, and it works great. I have a 300 foot length of CAT5 which let's me tether to my router and walk around the house. Works great!

Yes, I'm totally joking. Glad to hear you got it somewhat working. 

Mike VE3CKO

Good one Rob!

KC9NRN

I use a Netgear Nighthawk for 5GHz and my iPad Pro has no issues but then my 5GHz config has almost no competition either. There are apps that you can download that will tell you how many other wireless networks are using the same channels which could cause issues. Adjust to ensure you aren't in the "default" ranges.

Rick - W5FCX

Seriously. It’s an unacknowedged bug. It fails miserably on fast networks! Would I kid about it?

Bill Garfield W1BG

Just IMO one of the best IOS apps for finding all of the 2.4 and 5 gHz access points out there (and the channels they are operating on) is "Airport Utility" available from the App store on your IOS device.  It's about a 3 yr old app that could use some upgrading, but it works great for this specific purpose.