Antenna Array

[sidgrea]

Hi,

I'm using two laptops with each having an external omni antenna. In addition, these laptops are used while backpacking in an open area where no objects impede the line of vision. The subjects in these backpacks will always remain within a 1/4 mile of each other. The issue I have is either subject continously changes orientation making the data throughput to vary continously. I'm looking for an antenna array, possibly directional, to replace the existing omni. It would need to monitor itself for the strongest possible connection and hence the best data throughput. Does this already exist? Can anyone suggest a url for info regarding this.

Thank You!

Ron

[JimGeier]

I've heard of companies working on this type of antenna array, sometimes referred to as smart antenna technology. The idea is where each wireless device can steer their radio waves in the direction of the device they want to communicate with. The devices add directivity, which increases range. I don't think there are any of these products available on the market yet, however.

[sidgrea]

Any www sites you know of? I would be interested in reviewing there approach to designing this array. Any knowledge available that you know of for a home-brew project or one that could evolve to it?

Ron

[JimGeier]

I don't know of any applicable websites to point you to. I've been working with a couple of the companies under NDA. I'll check and see how open they are to have your involvement at this point.

[sidgrea]

Originally posted by JimGeier
I don't know of any applicable websites to point you to. I've been working with a couple of the companies under NDA. I'll check and see how open they are to have your involvement at this point.



Any updates to my involvement? I'm now researching an atenna array with phasing capabilities. Any comments for this approach?

Thanks!

[MJShimek]

A company called Wineguard makes dish antennas for RV's and campers that automatically sense where the DirecTV or Echostar satallite is and the unit automatically locks onto the bird, and is able to track it, even while driving at highway speeds. It is an expensive unit, at around $6,000.

[DL33T]

Similar units exist in the marine industry - parabolic dish antennae are mounted inside domes (under 1m diameter) and are stabilized with gyros after they lock on to a signal. I'd imagine that it's possible to engineer this sort of thing to track a moving signal, but I'm thinking it would require at least one additional antenna in order to triangulate the signal.

[rodelcava]

I use an array of 4 (20 dBi Sector Panel Antenna) for provide Internet Service. I conected the array with a 1 watt amplifier and a signal spplitter. this array is the best for WISP!. Because you can provide signal to 360 ° with the best quality and power.