Step-by-Step Instructions to Building a Wi-Fi Yagi Antenna

A Wi-Fi Yagi antenna can increase the wireless range of your computer.

Increase the wireless range of your computer by building your own Wi-Fi Yagi antenna. A Yagi antenna is a simple, directional antenna that can increase your ability to find wireless signals at extended ranges. A Yagi antenna is designed to attach to a computer using a USB connector and plugging it into a USB port found on many computers. Constructing a Yagi antenna requires a few tools commonly found around the house and some parts that can be picked up at the local electronics store.

Things You'll Need

• 44 oz. coffee can
• Hammer
• Nail
• N-connector
• 12-gauge solid wire
• Soldering iron
• Solder
• Coaxial to USB adapter
• USB cable

Instructions

1. Punch a hole in an empty, clean 44 oz. coffee can using the hammer and nail. Place the hole on the side of the coffee can up 1 5/8 inches from the closed end.

2. Enlarge the hole so it is big enough to fit the end of the N-connector.

3. Construct the antenna. Attach a cut length of 1 1/4 inch solid 12-gauge wire to the solder end of the N-connector with the soldering gun.

4. Push the N-connector through the hole in the coffee can from the inside. Connect the the N-connector to the coaxial-to-USB adapter so it clamps to the coffee can wall.

5. Connect the USB cable's female end to the coaxial-to-USB adapter. Attach the male end to an open USB port on your computer.

6. Search for Wi-Fi signals. Sweep the area with the Yagi antenna until you locate a Wi-Fi hot spot.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a coffee can with smooth metal sides for the antenna receptor to reduce signal reflection. A can with grooves can scatter the signal decreasing the antenna's effectiveness.

References

• Binary Wolf: Coffee Can Wi-Fi Antenna
• DX Zone: 43.33 Km LOS with USB Wi-Fi Stick