802.11 Ranges

akela · 09-23-2003, 09:49 AM

Hello everyone,
I was wondering if you guys know anything about the ranges of a 2.4GHz 802.11 system with a rather large omnidirectional antena on the access point (Let's say just a normal antenna 2 feet tall) and smaller (Let's say 1 foot tall) omni antennas on the devices. I don't need anything accurate, just tell me if I'm talking Miles of range on a flat surface, or less than. I really know nothing about this, but I guess I could just go ask my dad :P. He's an RF engineer, so he knows that stuff. Anyway, thanks!

jailbait · 09-23-2003, 10:19 PM

"ranges of a 2.4GHz 802.11 system "

The amount of power that any wireless device puts out is limited by law. I think that the range of an 802.11 system is typically 200 feet or less. No doubt somebody has figured out a way to broadcast to the next continent but they have to do so only when the feds aren't looking.

Robert0380 · 09-24-2003, 04:39 AM

yea, that's what all that "this part complies with FCC part 15" mombo jumbo is about.

FCC regulates all that communication stuff, so the size of your antenna wont really boost the power.
<pun>
but some say size does matter
</pun>

akela · 09-24-2003, 11:44 AM

Dang.

I'm doing a research project on mars missions for school and I have to come up with a communication system suitable for multiple rovers to communicate. I don't think 200 ft. is gonna be long enough, but then again, why would the FCC care about "harmful interference" on mars

jailbait · 09-24-2003, 02:23 PM

"why would the FCC care about "harmful interference" on mars "

It will interfere with Elvis' TV reception.

Capt_Caveman · 09-24-2003, 07:28 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by jailbait
"why would the FCC care about "harmful interference" on mars "

It will interfere with Elvis' TV reception.

That is classic! LOL.

darin3200 · 09-25-2003, 07:08 PM

You could always use something like amateur radio bands if all the users got licenses. Those can go a couple hundred miles depending on power, band etc..

bluegryphon · 09-27-2003, 10:53 AM

why does linksys give you them big antennas if they dont do nuttin? :P

hah.. i hate NIC's.. so much.. wireless ones.. gah..