DIY Friday: Wireless Internet Cantenna

For those of you who are unaware, a Cantenna is “a directional waveguide antenna for long-range Wi-Fi used to increase the range of (or snoop on) a wireless network.” WiFi antenna designs are almost limitless – you can use a mineral water bottle, a cable antenna, a pringles can, a fire extinguisher, a kitchen steamer, or a cooking strainer and thumbdrive. Leave me a comment if I missed something.

The most common design utilizes a simple tin can, an N-Female chassis mount connector, and some thick wire. Instructions are available here, but the process is fairly simple: “1. Collect the parts; 2. Drill or punch holes in your can to mount the probe; 3. Assemble the probe and mount in can.” If you want to optimize different size cans, the (somewhat complicated) math is described here.

For a good overview of WiFi antennas, check out this excellent episode of Systm:

But, since Really Rocket Science tries to push the DIY-limits (and since we really like satellite dishes), try “hot-rodding” a basic can-Cantenna by adding an old satellite dish. Instructions are available here – let’s just say it takes a fair amount of creative ingenuity. It’s for the DIY-expert.

And, as usual, you could just be lame and buy one.


6 Comments

  • Gordon Woollen says:

    Hello! I know this is kinda off topic but I was wondering which blog platform are you using for this site? I’m getting fed up of WordPress because I’ve had issues with hackers and I’m looking at alternatives for another platform. I would be great if you could point me in the direction of a good platform.

  • Cristie Palczewski says:

    Wireless internet is really great, i always use wireless internet at home and the coverage and the bandwidth is great. ,.’*:

  • Dan Worthey says:

    Wifi antennas that are made of silver or silver coated seems to give the best performance. ^

  • Samual Namanny says:

    Wireless internet will become even more popular because people love to travel a lot.

  • 情報 says:

    情報

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