How far can you push the range of Wi-Fi connectivity in an ideal environment?
4 days ago
- The project tested the maximum range of 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi under ideal conditions, aiming to control a robot via Wi-Fi commands.
- Wireless communication power is measured in watts and dBm; antenna gain in dBi; EIRP is transmitter power plus antenna gain.
- In Canada and the US, the maximum allowed transmitter output for 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi is 1W (30dBm) with a max EIRP of 4W (36dBi) without a license.
- A standard 0.1W (20dBm) transmitter can use an antenna with up to 16dBi gain to stay within legal limits.
- 2.4 GHz was chosen over 5 GHz because lower frequencies travel farther with less loss.
- Equipment included 802.11n USB Wi-Fi adapters (20dBm output), a 12dBi omni-directional antenna, a 14dBi Yagi antenna, and a Phidget SBC4.
- Testing took place at a small airport for flat terrain, clear line of sight, and minimal interference.
- Results showed Wi-Fi can extend to 1400m with proper antennas; stock 2dBi antennas reached 430m, but with intermittent signal beyond.
- The Yagi antenna had less signal drop-off along its beam but was sensitive to misalignment.