Migrated to PI 4, bad range? (USB3 2.4GHz interference)

[vikdb]

Hi,

I've been using this custom integration for over a year and it just works perfect with my Xiaomi Mijia Bluetooth sensors.
But last week i did a migration from my pi3 to a pi4 and now it seems that the sensors upstairs are out of range..

I thought the raspberry 4 had better bluetooth range, not worse?
ANy ideas?

[Ernst79]

Did you also change to an SSD drive in stead of SD card at the same time? or any other hardware changes?

[vikdb]

Yeah i upgraded my setup to a SSD, do i need to change something when migrating to a SSD?

[Ernst79]

SSD drives block the Bluetooth signal for some reason. It is a very common problem (I had it myself too). I've written something in the faq about this issue (https://github.com/custom-components/ble_monitor/blob/master/faq.md#my-sensor-doesnt-receive-any-readings-from-my-sensors-anymore-or-only-occasionally)

The solution is to use an extension cable between your PI and SSD drive, and place the SSD as far away from your PI. Somehow SSD drives interfere with the Bluetooth signal.

[vikdb]

Ok i'll try it!

Its a shame, i really like my new case with the SSD on the bottom :(

[Ernst79]

Yeah, sorry 😢 Unfortunately, I'm pretty confident that this is the issue you are facing. You are not the first....

[Thrilleratplay]

@vikdb Try connecting the hard drive to a USB 2 port. Some users of the Govee BLE Thermometer/Hygrometer plugin did some debugging and research into a similar issue and found that USB3 can interfere with 2.4GHz wireless devices.

• link 1
• link 2

[Ernst79]

I assume your issue is solved with these tips. Feel free to reopen if you still encounter issues.

[kaizersoje]

I am having a similar isssue. I have connected the SSD via an 1m extension cable to the Pi. If I move the BT sensor in the same room as the Pi, I am able to receive the data. However, if I move the sensor to the place it used to be, the Pi is unable to receive the data.

Anything else I can do?

[Ernst79]

Try to move the SSD around, it might be better in another position. If that doesn’t work, try to disable WiFi and connect the pi via a LAN cable. Other options are using an external Bluetooth adapter, with antenna

[kaizersoje]

The Pi is connected via LAN. How do I disable the Wifi?

[Ernst79]

First hit in google

https://raspberrytips.com/disable-wifi-raspberry-pi/

if you are on Home Assistant Os, it might not work. You can use this

https://community.home-assistant.io/t/quick-question-how-to-i-turn-of-the-wifi-radio-on-my-rpi3-using-hassio/78955/3

[Magalex2x14]

Some attention should be paid to the quality of the USB cable. The cable must be shielded and twisted pairs. If it does not have ferrite cores, then you can buy ferrite clamps:

They are not expensive, and it is useful to install them on the power cord too.
You can move on further only with an external usb-bt adapter. Close to ideal, I personally see the setup with a raspberry and an SSD on a short wire, installed inside a common metal case, and an external bt adapter on a usb extension cord.

[kaizersoje]

First hit in google

https://raspberrytips.com/disable-wifi-raspberry-pi/

if you are on Home Assistant Os, it might not work. You can use this

https://community.home-assistant.io/t/quick-question-how-to-i-turn-of-the-wifi-radio-on-my-rpi3-using-hassio/78955/3

I am not able to figure out where to find the config.txt file. I have the SSH addon installed.