Keep in mind that the steps may differ slightly due to the model of iPhone and cellular carrier, but these instructions should get you started. There are different ways to enter field test mode, depending on which version of iOS you’re using. You have to punch a series of commands into your phone’s keypad to enter field test mode, but it’s fairly straightforward. Because it isn’t a feature that the iPhone promotes to customers, you won’t find it easily accessible on an app or menu. You can find this measurement on your iPhone only when you’re in field test mode.įield test mode is used by technicians and engineers. The standard industry measurement for cellular signal strength is decibel milliwatts, or dBm. Industry Standards for Measuring Cell Signal Strength However, because there’s no actual unit of measurement, you can’t be certain exactly how strong or weak your signal is. Two bars of signal strength mean you have a stronger signal than if you have one bar. The bars only provide you with a relative measurement. Three bars on your iPhone may be the same as two bars on a phone from another manufacturer. The connectivity bars on your cell phone are a symbolic representation of signal strength, but they aren’t standardized. Why the Bars on Your Cell Phone Aren’t Accurate Read on to learn more about the hidden field test mode on iPhone, as well as how to access it and what the signal strength measurements mean. While this can give you a general idea of how strong or weak your cell signal is, there’s no across-the-board standard for what these bars mean.įortunately, there’s a more accurate way to measure your connectivity and it’s right on your iPhone. Most people who have connectivity problems on their phone usually look at the number of bars on their home screen to check their signal strength. When you’re trying to connect with someone on your mobile phone, there’s nothing more frustrating than a call that drops or a text that just won’t send.

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