Compensating for attenuation in long antenna cables

[benjo]

I'm a newbie to the WLAN/802.11b world whose hoping to set up a system that can link a few rural places not so far apart (<0.5km). Problem is the buildings are surrounded by trees and the normal <30m antenna cables won't get me out far enough to clear space.

Sooo, is there a way of boosting the signal to/from the antenna with any specific Access Point / Antenna combination?

I found the the AMP-500, 500 mW amplifier from Alvarion but it only works with their $1000+ PRO.11 D Model unit or DS.11 bridge I think.

I know it must be a special bi-directional amplifier I can't find anything else for cheaper setups than the Alvarion one...

Any clues greatly appreciated!

 

[daronwilson]

There are more generic amplifiers at hypertechlink for one, and several other online distributors. However, it is not the best way to go. In situations like this I usually mount the radio in a weatherproof box and use a 3' feedline to the antenna. Then I run ethernet and power to the box mounted up on the peak of the roof or whatever. Now there is a risk of a lightning hit on the ethernet (and the AC), so you need to protect those, but I think it is more effective and less costly than the amplifier option.

Good Luck It is only my opinion, based on my experience and education...I am always willing to learn, educate me!
Daron J. Wilson, RCDD
daron.wilson@lhmorris.com

 

[benjo]

Hi Daron

Thank you, most enlightening! Could you tell me what &quot;radio&quot; I could use that would require absolutely minimum power (so that it can be run though trees, on private land in countryside, without fear of electricuting anyone/thing!) I presume something must be around that runs off 9 or 12 V... pretty cheap one naturally which can accomodate an external antenna.

Thanks again

Ben

 

[dhnl]

Look for an 'IF' solution. Breezecom, WI-Lan & others provide this type of product. Or, the Motorola Canopy product uses ethernet cable right to the antenna/AP