August Lock: Troubleshoot Slow Communication on Mesh... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August Lock communicates via Wi-Fi (2.4GHz) on a mesh network. Slow communication indicates network congestion, weak signal strength (RSSI below -70dBm), or device processing delays. Door position sensor (DPS) data may be lagging due to the slow response. The August Lock utilizes TLS encryption for secure communication with the August cloud servers. The lock's firmware version and the mesh network router's firmware influence communication speed.

Symptoms:

Observed communication latency between the August Lock and the mobile app exceeding 5 seconds. Intermittent "Device Unavailable" errors in the app. LED indicator flashes red after a lock/unlock command, indicating a timeout. Event logs show frequent disconnects from the Wi-Fi network.

Possible Causes:

Wi-Fi interference from other devices on the 2.4GHz band (microwaves, Bluetooth devices, neighbouring networks).
Excessive distance between the August Lock and the nearest mesh Wi-Fi node, resulting in low RSSI.
Network congestion on the mesh Wi-Fi network due to multiple connected devices.
Outdated firmware on the August Lock or the mesh Wi-Fi router.
Battery impedance increase due to cold Canadian winter temperatures (-20°C to -40°C), affecting the lock's radio performance.
Mechanical binding in the door locking mechanism creating increased load on the motor, affecting its ability to quickly report its status.

Solution:

1

Verify Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI) at the lock's location using a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone. Aim for RSSI above -65dBm.
2

Relocate the nearest mesh Wi-Fi node closer to the August Lock to improve signal strength. Ensure clear line of sight, avoiding obstructions like metal doors or thick walls.
3

Update the firmware on both the August Lock and the mesh Wi-Fi router to the latest versions. Check for updates in the August app and the router's administration interface.
4

Change the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi channel on the mesh router to a less congested channel (1, 6, or 11) using the router's administration interface. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer to identify the least congested channel.
5

Replace the batteries in the August Lock with fresh, high-quality lithium batteries. Ensure correct polarity during installation. Check the battery voltage with a multimeter; it should be above 3.0V per cell.
6

Inspect the door frame and strike plate for any mechanical binding. Lubricate the locking mechanism with graphite lubricant if necessary. Ensure the door closes smoothly without requiring excessive force.
7

For Bell Giga Hub users, verify that the "Whole Home Wi-Fi" feature is properly configured and that the August Lock is connected to the optimal band (2.4 GHz) and node. Rogers Ignite users should ensure their Wi-Fi pods are correctly positioned for optimal coverage.

Safety Warning:

Ensure data privacy by using a strong and unique password for your August account and enabling two-factor authentication. Protect against physical tampering by regularly inspecting the lock for signs of damage or forced entry. Do not attempt to disassemble the lock or replace its components without proper knowledge and experience. Incorrect handling of lithium batteries can cause fire or explosion. Always dispose of used batteries properly at designated recycling locations.

Prevention:

- Regularly check the August Lock's battery level in the app and replace batteries proactively before they are depleted, especially before winter. - Periodically update the August Lock's firmware and the mesh Wi-Fi router's firmware to benefit from performance improvements and bug fixes. - Monitor Wi-Fi signal strength at the lock's location and adjust the mesh network node placement as needed to maintain optimal signal strength. - Inspect the door locking mechanism annually for mechanical binding and lubricate it as necessary. - Consider assigning a static IP address to the August Lock on the mesh Wi-Fi network to prevent IP address conflicts.

Expert Tip:

To quickly diagnose Wi-Fi connectivity issues, temporarily disable one or more mesh Wi-Fi nodes (excluding the one closest to the August Lock) to isolate the lock's connection to a single node. This can help identify if a specific node is causing the communication problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I check the Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI) at my August Lock?

Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone or tablet. Stand near the lock and measure the RSSI value for your Wi-Fi network. A value above -65dBm is generally considered good.

•What type of batteries should I use in my August Lock?

Use high-quality lithium batteries. Avoid alkaline batteries, as they have lower capacity and may not perform well in cold temperatures.

•How do I update the firmware on my August Lock?

Open the August app, navigate to the lock's settings, and check for firmware updates. Follow the on-screen instructions to install any available updates.

August Lock: Troubleshoot Slow Communication on Mesh Wi-Fi

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I check the Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI) at my August Lock?

•What type of batteries should I use in my August Lock?

•How do I update the firmware on my August Lock?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: