I connect to the Internet on my laptop to one of two WiFi hot spots. ( Access Points )

The problem is this :

- When not connected, the connection strength is reported as very good : 4 out of the 5 bars are ON.

- The moment I connect, the strength drops to "low". Only 2 bars are ON.

Why does this happen ? It is as if I am consuming the broadcast power !

OK even with the strength at very low level, I can download files at a max rate of 225 kbps. I am sure the download rates are decided by other factors rather than the signal strengths.

I know the solutions to solve this are minimum but is this normal and anything possible to get the strength back ?

Thanks

Raghu