Objective:

I can demonstrate my understanding of computer networks, network operating systems and wireless networking by assembling a directional antenna with the intent of establishing and sustaining a 2.4 GHz wireless signal at a distance of greater than 100 yards.

Links:

Do It Yourself Wireless Antenna (Pringles Can Yagi): https://www.binarywolf.com/249/pringles_cantenna.htm

How to Build a Tin Can Waveguide WiFi Antenna: https://www.turnpoint.net/wireless/cantennahowto.html

802.11b Homebrew Wi-Fi Antenna Shootout: https://www.turnpoint.net/wireless/has.html

DIY Bi-Quad Directional Wi-Fi Antenna: https://lifehacker.com/5964111/diy-wi-fi-antenna-cheaply-extends-your-wireless-network

Build a Directional Wi-Fi Antenna from Kitchen Gear and a Baby Bottle: https://lifehacker.com/build-a-directional-wi-fi-antenna-from-kitchen-gear-and-1686173362

$10 Wi-Fi 16dBi Super Antenna: https://www.instructables.com/id/10–WIFI-16dBi-Super-Antenna-Pictorial/

Topics Discussed:

Wireless Networking
802.11 Wi-Fi spec
Directional Antennas
Waveguide Antenna
Yagi Antenna
Flickenger design Antenna

Assignment:

Today, we will continue the build phase of our directional antenna project. Remember that the goal is to sustain a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi signal over a minimum distance of 100 yards (300 ft or ~92m).

All tools and equipment are located in Room 212. The wireless network cards are located in the cabinet closest to the Teacher Workroom door in Room 212. If the cabinet is locked, see Mr. Herrera for the key. If you have not already, you should request a wireless network card and install it in your PC. There should be enough wireless network cards to install one in each team’s PC for testing.

Please use this time to make progress on your project. I have extended the time well beyond the original projected testing date, but we do not have unlimited time. On Tuesday, March 1st, we will go out to the football field and test all completed antennas to allow those with working products to see the results and modify their designs if necessary. It is in your best interest to test tomorrow so you can tweak the design if necessary before the final test!

We will conduct final tests the week of March 7th. To be considered a success (and receive credit for the project), your antenna design must be able to sustain at least a one-bar wireless signal over a 100 yard distance (the length of the football field).

Reminder: The team (or individual) that produces the antenna that can reliably sustain the highest gain signal over the longest distance will receive a personal pizza and wings party, to be held while everyone else writes a four paragraph personal reflection describing their participation in this project.

Good luck, and remember: Your antenna doesn’t have to be perfect, it just has to be better than everyone else’s.

Posted: February 29th, 2016
Due Date: March 7th, 2016