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How to Make a Waveguide

Antennas for wireless applications are expensive. You can build your own antenna to save some money, receive a better signal and learn more about radio transmissions. Unfortunately, some people live or work in geographical locations that do not provide the ability to receive good radio signals. Enhancing your reception is possible by installing an antenna. All you will need for the antenna is a tin can, some wire and technical construction talents.

Things You'll Need

Tin can, between 3 and 4 inches
2 inches thick copper wire
N-Female chassis mount connector
Soldering iron
Solder
Drill and bits
Nuts and bolts
RJ-45 cable
Preparing the Parts

Instructions

Preparing the Parts
- 1
  Cut the top off the tin can. Many shapes and sizes will work, but try to use a can that is between 3 and 3 2/3 inches in diameter.
- 2
  Trim the piece of copper wire to a length of 1 1/4 inches. Use 12-gauge wire if available. Attach the wire to the brass stub on the back of the N connector using a soldering iron.
- 3
  Measure up from the closed end of the can about three inches and mark the can to indicate where to drill the hole. The hole sits at a point that is situated between the 1/4 and 3/4 guide wavelengths for the most common frequencies of 2.412 GHz and 2.462 GHz.
- 4
  Drill a hole in the metal can at the location marked by the dot. Begin with a small hole and enlarge it using progressively larger bits until you reach the diameter of the R connector.
Assemble the Waveguide
- 5
  Insert the waveguide into the hole in the side if the tin can and secure with the small screws and bolts.
- 6
  Check and trim the piece of wire attached to the inside of the N connection. The wire should be no longer than 1.21 inches, including the brass sleeve.
- 7
  Connect the output signal from the waveguide to the back of your computer's NIC card.

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