Can't Connect More Than Two Bluetooth Peripherals

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Level 1

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Can't Connect More Than Two Bluetooth Peripherals

Background: I've got a late 2013 13" Retina MBP with Bluetooth Apple keyboard, Magic Trackpad, and Magic Mouse. I've been using this set up for quite a while now without any problems.

A few weekends ago out of nowhere I started having Bluetooth connectivity issues. All three peripherals would randomly drop and reconnect every few minutes. My wifi signal would also randomly drop although not nearly as often. I thought maybe it was interference caused by my FIOS router so I switched to a specific channel instead of leaving it automatic. I also rebooted a few times but that didn't fix it.

Somewhere along the line I also noticed that when I turned off one of the three devices the other two stayed on just fine. But as soon as I turn back on the third peripheral the connectivity problems start again.

Ideas?

Posted on Jul 10, 2014 1:04 PM

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Answer 1

Linc Davis

Level 10

209,547 points

Jul 10, 2014 1:53 PM in response to CrazedVW

Make a "Genius" appointment at an Apple Store, or go to another authorized service provider.

Back up all data on the internal drive(s) before you hand over your computer to anyone. There are ways to back up a computer that isn't fully functional—ask if you need guidance.

If privacy is a concern, erase the data partition(s) with the option to write zeros* (do this only if you have at least two complete, independent backups, and you know how to restore to an empty drive from any of them.) Don’t erase the recovery partition, if present.

Keeping your confidential data secure during hardware repair

Apple also recommends that you deauthorize a device in the iTunes Store before having it serviced.

*An SSD doesn't need to be zeroed.

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Answer 2

CrazedVW Author

Level 1

0 points

Jul 10, 2014 2:49 PM in response to Linc Davis

You really think it's a hardware failure issue when it works fine when I only connect two of the three?

I've been reading up a little more on this and saw something suggesting it could be too much interference in the 2.4Ghz wireless band between my router and the three. (And being in a neighborhood with houses close by. I'm picking up multiple other wifi signals.) But without a dual band router I have no way to test that theory by switching my internet to 5Ghz.

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Answer 3

Linc Davis

Level 10

209,547 points

Jul 10, 2014 3:16 PM in response to CrazedVW

I think you have a warranty and you should take advantage of it.

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