A WiFi Bridge can link your
network to another network so that resources like Internet can be
shared. Bridging devices work together in pairs so you will need
two units. One unit is placed at each network. When a WiFi connection
is established between both bridging units then the two networks become
one.
A WiFi bridge is different from
a WiFi router because it is able to connect two networks using WiFi. A
normal WiFi router must connect to other networks using an Ethernet
cable.
Setup
It is best to initially setup both bridging units in the same room
before relocating them to their final location. Run the setup CD on a
nearby computer and follow the instructions. Once both bridges are
communicating with each other then you can continue by placing each
item in its final location.
Most WiFi bridging devices come
pre-installed with a small antenna that can be upgraded to a larger
antenna for extended long range WiFi. When using a bridge it is best to
mount your antenna outdoors where line of sight can be achieved without
obstructions. In this case you may need to extend low-loss coaxial
cable between the antenna jack on the bridge and the outdoor antenna.
Boosting Power
If all your equipment is setup and
aligned properly and you are still not getting connected then you may
need to boost the power. This requires another piece of equipment
called a WiFi Signal Booster. This
WiFi Signal Booster
has two coaxial connectors so it can be placed in-line with the
antenna. Connect the "Input" jack on the signal booster to the antenna
jack on the bridge. Next connect the "Antenna" jack on the signal
booster to the coaxial cable that leads to your outdoor antenna. If
you're using the linked
signal booster above
with the equipment used in this illustration, then you will also
need a special
connector fitting
along with a special
pigtail. For even
more power add a WiFi signal booster
to both bridges.
FCC Power Output Rules
Unfortunately there are power restrictions
(laws) when using WiFi that if exceeded could land you in jail. The FCC
limits your total power output using a sliding scale. The scale
starts at 30dBm of amplification power while using a 6dBi
directional antenna. Then for every 1dBm you drop in amplification
power you can increase the power of your directional antenna
by 3dBi.
Using a larger point-to-point antenna, your beam pattern will cover
less area and cause less interference for others. This is why the FCC
allows this sliding scale.
