Cantenna
A cantenna is a directional waveguide antenna for long-range Wi-Fi used to increase the range of (or snoop on) a wireless network. Originally built using a Pringles potato chip can, a cantenna can be constructed quickly, easily, and inexpensively using readily obtained materials:
- Four small nuts/bolts;
- A short length of medium-gauge wire;
- A tin can roughly 8 cm (3.66 inches) in diameter (the longer the better); and
- An N-Female chassis mount connector, available at many electronic supply stores.
An optimal design will use a tin can longer than a Pringles can. Instructions for constructing and connecting a cantenna can be found at Turnpoint.net.
While cantennae are useful for extending a wireless local area network (LAN), the tiny design makes them ideal for mobile applications such as wardriving. The design of the cantenna is so simple that it is often the first antenna WiFi experimenters learn to build. Even the Secret Service has taken an interest in the cantenna. Cantennnas can even be used to increase cell phone rang, improving reception and decreasing noise.
The term 'Cantenna' originally referred to a product sold by Heathkit Co. in Benton Harbor, MI. It was a 50-ohm resistive load used by radio amateurs.
External links
- How To Build A Tin Can Waveguide Antenna for 802.11(b or g) Wireless Networks
- Wlan antenna Waveguide type - includes some basic theoretical explanations and formulae.
- Antenna in a Pringles can
- Do-It-Yourself Wireless Antenna Update - make your own wireless antennas.
- Practical Answers on how to use a Cantenna.