Setup an Orb Sensor

An Orb sensor is any device running the Orb software that continuously monitors your network connectivity. This section guides you through setting up sensors on different devices.

Choosing the Right Sensor

The best sensor for you depends on your specific needs:

• Always-on monitoring: Choose a dedicated device like a Raspberry Pi or repurposed old phone
• Monitoring a specific location: Set up a sensor at that location for accurate results
• Quick setup: Use your existing smartphone, tablet, or computer with the Orb app installed
• High reliability: Consider a router-based sensor or a dedicated single-board computer

Orb Sensor Setup Guides

• Linux
• Raspberry Pi
• OpenWrt
• Docker
• Home Assistant
• Proxmox
• Steam Deck
• GL.iNet Brume 2
• Spare iPhone
• Spare Android
• WLAN Pi

Sensor Placement

For the most accurate results:

• Place your sensor in a location where you most commonly use the internet
• Try to avoid placing it too close to your router or access point (at least 5-10 feet away)
• If monitoring Wi-Fi, place the sensor where it has a good but not excellent signal (2-3 bars)
• For monitoring multiple locations, set up separate sensors in each area

Multiple Sensors

You can add multiple sensors to your Orb account to monitor different networks or locations. This is particularly useful for:

• Comparing home and work connectivity
• Monitoring different areas of a large home or office
• Tracking both wired and wireless connections
• Keeping an eye on a vacation home or remote location
• Checking internet connectivity at home while on-the-go

To add multiple sensors, simply follow the setup guide for each device and link them all to the same Orb account.