WokFi
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WokFi is a term commonly used to indicate a style of Wi-Fi antenna made out of simple Asian cookware scoops, or similar easy to find household metallic reflective items (which don't even need to be perfectly parabolic), in conjunction with an USB Wi-Fi dongle. This approach is considered simpler and cheaper than classical home built antenna projects (like the popular Cantenna), but is a very effective way to boost the Wi-Fi connection quality, audit AP site coverage & even quickly establish WLAN viability- perhaps if a more professional setup is eventually intended.
A significant advantage is that regular cheap USB passive extension cables can be used for up to a (& sometimes over) 5 meters run, with no worries about microwave signal losses,costly cabling or proprietory fittings, since the USB communication operate in the 'slower' digital domain with standardised connectors. Chaining active USB repeaters and passive cables, it's possible to extend the connection even more (10s of metres), which is especially useful at WiFi's microwave frequencies when line of sight (LOS) obstacles such as vegetation and walls need to be cleared.
WokFi gains are typically 12-15dB, with range boosts thus 4-6 times over a bare USB adapter. Ranges (LOS) are typically 3-5km,althougth 2 similar setups point to point may reach to nearer 10km over a clear path. Nearby interfering 2.4GHz signals (perhaps from cordless phones, AV links,leaky microwave ovens, other APs or Bluetooth) can also be nulled out- a useful feature in this increasingly crowded spectrum portion.
[edit] External links
- USB adaptors & DIY antenna = "Poor Man's WiFi" ? - Kiwi Stan Swan's site, where the whole WokFi thing sparked
- “WokFi” Down South - Report of a practical experience in the field, providing internet access to a film crew
- WiFi Anywhere - WokFi as a quick way to get a viable connection at campgrounds
