Quick answer
📱 iPad app blinking on and off? This is typically caused by a weak Wi-Fi connection between your computer and iPad. Try connecting with a USB cable to test if the issue is network-related.
💡Quick test:
USB connection: Connect computer and iPad with USB cable to verify if issue is Wi-Fi related
If USB works: Problem is definitely network connectivity
If USB also has issues: May be a different technical problem
Common Symptoms
⚠️ Signs of Wi-Fi Connection Issues
You may experience one or more of these symptoms:
iPad app blinking: App repeatedly opens and closes
Connection failures: Astropad not connecting initially
High latency: Noticeable delay between actions and response
Slow redraw: Poor visual performance and screen updates
App instability: iPad app opening and closing unexpectedly
Quick Troubleshooting Steps
🔧 First Steps to Try
Follow these steps in order:
Restart devices: Restart both your computer and iPad
Restart router: Power cycle your Wi-Fi router
Move closer: Get closer to your router or reposition it for better signal
Check AirDrop: Ensure AirDrop isn't actively in use (can interfere with connection)
💡Test after each step: Check if the blinking issue is resolved before moving to the next step.
Common Wi-Fi Connection Causes
🌐 Network-Related Issues
Router and band issues:
2.4GHz band conflicts: Router on 2.4GHz may conflict with Bluetooth devices
Distance: Being too far from the router
Router positioning: Poor router placement affecting signal strength
Mac-specific issues:
Hotspot mode: Using your Mac as a Wi-Fi hotspot
Ethernet interference: Ethernet cable plugged into computer while using Wi-Fi
Network complexity:
Multiple routers: Multiple routers or network systems
Wi-Fi extenders: Range extenders can cause connection issues
Network switching: Device jumping between different networks
Security and Software Issues
🔒 Security-Related Causes
Network security:
Corporate policies: Corporate network security restrictions
Firewalls: Firewall or security software blocking connections
VPN interference: Active VPN connections disrupting local network communication
⚠️ Corporate networks: Often have strict security policies that can interfere with device-to-device communication.
Solutions by Category
🔧 Targeted Solutions
For router/band issues:
Switch to 5GHz: Use 5GHz Wi-Fi band instead of 2.4GHz
Separate networks: Create separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz network names
Router upgrade: Consider newer router with better range and performance
For distance/signal issues:
Reposition router: Place router in central, elevated location
Remove obstacles: Clear physical barriers between devices and router
Upgrade antenna: Use router with better antenna design
For security/software issues:
Disable VPN: Temporarily turn off VPN during Astropad sessions
Firewall exceptions: Add Astropad to firewall whitelist
Corporate IT: Contact IT department for network configuration help
Alternative Connection Methods
🔌 When Wi-Fi Won't Work
If Wi-Fi issues persist, consider these alternatives:
USB connection: Direct USB cable connection between devices
Ethernet: Wired Ethernet connection for your computer
Dedicated network: Set up separate network just for Astropad devices
❓ Additional Support
If the blinking issue continues after trying these steps:
Test USB first: Always verify if USB connection works properly
Document symptoms: Note specific error messages or patterns
Contact support: Reach out to the Astropad support team with your troubleshooting results
💡Tip: If USB connection works perfectly but Wi-Fi doesn't, the issue is definitely network-related and can be resolved with network adjustments.