r/rfengineering

Sure, I know I could buy one but that wouldn't be as fun, and it costs a lot more.

The scenario: My router is about 7 feet away from a good antenna mounting location on my patio overhang, in direct line of sight through a large window. Our outdoor community pool is about 50 feet away, obscured only by a large tree, and a chain link fence. I want to be able to stream content to my phone, obviously, when I'm out at the pool. I've done a bit of research on it, like putting a wifi adapter in the focal beam of your antenna, modifying your router (not an option), etc. With only 7 feet between my router and an antenna, I could also easily run a LAN cable between them, if that would improve fidelity. With a 50 foot transmission distance, would I need a repeater antenna, or could I get away with a passive directional reflector? This is where I thought running a wire between the router and the antenna might help... not requiring any additional power or re-transmitting components. I would like to construct the antenna myself if possible. Sure I could buy a parabolic for $100 but that's cheating and costs more.

Disclaimer: Our HOA president is my best friend, who says once I obtain my ham license, he'd approve a home-made antenna on my patio overhang. It just can't be a big ugly thing, so HF/VHF enthusiasts are out of luck here. If a coaxial + coffee can would work, I'd paint the outside or dress it up a little... I'm good at projects like this, and patient!