A cantenna is a directional waveguide antenna for long-range Wi-Fi used to increase the range of (or discover) a wireless network.
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The term "Cantenna" originally referred to a product sold by Heathkit Co. in Benton Harbor, MI, USA. It was a 50 ohm resistive load used by radio amateurs.[1] However, in the more casual vernacular of the Do-It-Yourself community, it has functionally become a portmanteau of can (e.g. an empty Pringles can, see below) and antenna, since the device is used to broadcast (and receive) signals, and not just terminate them.
Although some designs are based on a Pringles potato chip can, in reality this tube is too narrow to be practical.[2] However, a cantenna can be made from various cans or tubes of an appropriate diameter.[3] Some designs include a pole mount to elevate the cantenna.[4]
At 2.4 GHz, losses can occur if the cable from the cantenna to the Wi-Fi circuitry is too long. A more efficient cantenna can be made by minimising this length or connecting the cantenna directly to the Wi-Fi circuitry.[5]
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