Re: RadioLabs Mobile Antenna System.

"mimsmall" <dsduquet@xxxxxxxxxxx> hath wroth:

Looking for users to give the group feedback on the 'long range wifi
traveler kit'. I wish to connect to the public library 2-3 miles los.
Lots of trees, most structures are one story. In Brevard County FL the
Public Library has open wifi for members and visitors. Members get
perks ofcourse. The system is available from the parking lot with
pcmcia card and no attatched antenna.

This one?
<http://www.radiolabs.com/products/wireless/antennas/2.4gig/long-range-wifi-kit.php>

I don't think it's going to do much for you. The page claims that it
works "up to 4 miles" which implies line of sight. If you're at 3
miles, you're already near the extreme range. In addition, the
library access point will not be located in a convenient location such
as in a window. You'll have to "drill" through the walls. It also
will not have a high gain antenna at the library end. A large mass of
trees and structures will literally block the signal. Frankly, I
don't think you have a chance unless you can get clear line of sight.

On the techy side, the antenna is only 12.5dBi gain. That's not much
more than a double biquad antenna. You can get 24dBi gain from a big
dish antenna, such as:
<http://www.radiolabs.com/products/antennas/2.4gig/2.4-aluminum-parabolic.php>
To put that in perspective, you get double the range for every 6dB of
increased antenna gain. That means the 24dBi dish will go 4 times as
far as the 12dBi yagi.

Lastly, I don't consider it ethical to use the library system for your
personal entertainment or whatever. It's a dis-service to the library
patrons to consume their bandwidth. You're also suppose to get
permission before using or accessing someone elses system. Florida
has a law for the occassion:
<http://www.flsenate.gov/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=Ch0815/ch0815.htm>

--
Jeff Liebermann jeffl@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
150 Felker St #D http://www.LearnByDestroying.com
Santa Cruz CA 95060 http://802.11junk.com
Skype: JeffLiebermann AE6KS 831-336-2558
.

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