I had the same problems with dongle on the PC or even with a 2m USB extension. Switched to a 5m extension and now have solid fixes every time for the last year.
Black cable on the ground though with a black dongle on the end led to standing on it during one session and destroying it. Second dongle is now fitted inside a sturdy white plastic drinks bottle that can withstand my size 12's.
Also works for the mini-PC that I switched to - same problem and solution for me.

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