Logitech FAQ Resource Central

I'm sure many of you out there may have experienced wireless range issues with your Logitech products and are looking for ways to improve or boost the signal strength. Here is the cold hard truth, it is impossible to boost the signal strength nor there is any modification that you can do to boost the signal efficiency.

Having said that, it is however crucial to understand why you are experiencing lack of range with the devices. You can refer to this page for the complete list of Logitech wireless devices with the default range. Let's take the MX Revolution Laser mouse as an example. Do note that it was stated that the particular device can have "up to" 30 feet of range. It does not mean that the device will always work 30 feet away. We will explore some of the factors affecting the range and some tips and suggestions on how to improve the signal range of the devices.

First factor: Wireless Interference
Anything that runs on electric or motor will release unwanted EM (electromagnetic) waves. This includes your computer power supply unit, electrical power points, electrical fans, cordless phones, monitor screens, etc. These parasite waves can interfere with devices that runs on RF (Radio frequency). Imagine throwing a stone at each sides of a pool. When the water ripples come in contact with each other, what happens? They almost cancel out each other. Depending on which side is stronger; the stronger one may prevail but it's strength weakened after the collision.

It is virtually impossible to eliminate interference but there are ways to improve the situation. Here are a couple of things that you can try to reduce wireless interference with Logitech devices:
- Re-locate the receiver from the back of your computer casing to the front to avoid the huge interference from the power supply unit at the back.
- Use the bundled USB extender (usually provided in the package) to re-locate the receiver away from the computer casing, monitor or places where electrical devices are located.
- Re-connect the Logitech wireless devices. This will allow the devices to scan and connect to a channel with less interference.


Second factor: Low battery
Many are not aware but if your Logitech cordless devices are low on battery, the device will decrease in range and may frequently disconnect. Try changing some fresh batteries for a boost.


Third factor: Using the device on metallic surface
What do you think the TV antenna is made of? Why do people keep metallic objects away while navigating with the compass? The theory is the same for wireless devices. Metal attracts unwanted interferences. Imagine all the other signals are preventing your device from communicating with the receiver. Just avoid using metallic surfaces will to improve the signal.


Fourth factor: Location
Where is your computer located and where exactly are you using the device? Radio frequency travels by bouncing off walls. Many people think that the signal can pass through walls which is not true. If you are keeping your computer inside a cabinet or in a different room upstairs or even in a room with two walls away; chances of you getting good signal will decrease dramatically. The devices do not need to have line of sight. However, by concealing or blocking the signal from traveling freely will impact the range performance.


Fifth factor: Environment
Do a reality check. If you are using your Logitech cordless devices in a noisy environment (as in interference heavy), do not expect the range to be good. This is especially true in some offices where the environment is constantly bombarded with WiFi signals, cordless phones, running machines, miscellaneous cordless devices and so on. Logitech cordless devices work best in an environment void of other 3rd party cordless devices which in reality is not so that possible.


Having all the five factors in check, if you are still experiencing extremely short range with your device, it is possible that your device could be failing (as in if the device will not work 1 feet away from the receiver). You should contact Logitech for a resolution.