Analyzing Low-cost Homebrew Antennae Design

Analysis and Comparison of 2 types of "Homebrew" antennas

CA homework

Analyzing Low-cost Homebrew antennas (with focus on one particular model)

Overview

This project is about looking at the design and fabrication of low-cost homebrew antennas. These antennas can be used for many applications, but a particularly interesting application is the use of these types of antennas in mesh networks. Because of their low cost and relatively easy fabrication, they are a very enticing option for community wireless projects.

Goals

In moving forward with this project, the following steps are planned, and should indicate success if completed.

analyze status quo of homebrew antennas environment/community
analyze design of specialty homebrew antenna from George at fab.cba
after understanding specialty antennas, fabricate it and test

Note: if time permits, explore possibilities of attaching radio/(Actual send/receive mechanism) directly onto antenna via usb, instead of costly cable connectors.

References

network utility diagnostics with and without antenna (using stock card and using antenna plugged in).

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