network connection status bars

k0eoo

I'm running all the latest stuff here, W11, 8600, V401 and so on with a DIRECT connection to my router via a GB network switch.

So why does my network status go up and down all the time form Excellent to Poor over and over again when I have a 100MB direct cable connection to my router. Seems to go up and down more when using smartlink but it even does it when I'm not??

Ha Gei

Same here..

Since , i think a 3.9 upgrade all freaked up, nearly bricked 6400

Same network bars issue and choppy transmitting . We had such 2 years ago too. It was all back normal after an update , i think end of 2023 .

Network works perfect, can stream multiple 4K and Icom TRX works perfectly too.

Harry

DL9NDW

Mike-VA3MW

There is a big difference between streaming and real time HF communications. With Stream, you do not notice any packet loss. On HF you can hear it as clicks.

It is normal for a network to have some changes in bandwidth and you will see the network health go up and down as the switch manages traffic.

To prove it is in the switch, try a direct cable connect, called link.local and see if it goes away.

Diagnosing Network Issues with a Link-Local Test

A Step-by-Step Guide for FlexRadio Users

Introduction

FlexRadio transceivers rely on stable network connections for optimal performance. If you’re experiencing disconnects, audio dropouts, or other network-related issues, performing a Link-Local Test helps determine whether the problem lies with your radio or your network. 

This test directly connects your PC to the radio, bypassing any external network components.

This document outlines how to conduct the test and interpret the results.

Why Perform a Link-Local Test?

• Isolates the Problem – Helps determine if the issue is related to your network or the radio itself.
• Eliminates Variables – By removing routers, switches, and other network devices, we can focus on potential hardware or software issues.
• Simplifies Troubleshooting – If the radio works properly in this test, then the issue is within your network setup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Required Equipment

• Your FlexRadio transceiver
• A PC or laptop running the latest version of SmartSDR
• A single NEW LAN (Ethernet) cable

2. Power Down Your Equipment

• Turn off both your PC and your FlexRadio completely.
• Unplug any existing network connections to ensure no external devices are affecting the test.

3. Directly Connect the Radio to the PC

• Use an Ethernet cable to connect your PC directly to the LAN port on the FlexRadio.
• Do not connect the radio or PC to any router, switch, or other network devices.

4. Power Everything Back On

• First, turn on your radio and allow it to fully boot.
• Then, turn on your PC and let the operating system load completely.

5. Launch SmartSDR

• Open SmartSDR on your PC.
• In the radio chooser window, check if your radio appears as an available device.

Interpreting the Results

✅ If the radio appears and works correctly:

Try to recreate the same problem.  If you are not able to, then this means your radio is functioning properly, and the issue likely stems from your network setup. 

The next steps are:

• Check for faulty Ethernet cables, switches, or routers.
• Ensure your network is properly configured for SmartSDR.
• Look for any network congestion or interference.

❌ If the radio does NOT appear or crashes:

This could indicate a hardware or software issue with the radio or PC. In this case:

• Restart the test to confirm consistent failure.
• If the issue persists, contact FlexRadio Support and report your findings.

Conclusion

The Link-Local Test is a crucial step in troubleshooting network-related issues with your FlexRadio system. By eliminating network components, you can quickly determine whether the problem is internal to your radio or caused by your home network.

k0eoo

Thank you both for your responses! I did not understand, until your comments Mike, how my switch and/or router could effect the connection quality. I think I get it now.

Regards, Dennis, k0eoo