Hello,
We tried the Blue Boat at Brocan Lake, Italy, for bathymetry survey.
It always lost connection to the base station at a distance of ~ 50/60 meters. We kept the base station (with its included antenna) along the lake’s border (so we always were at an altitude higher than the boat were).
Brocan Lake : 2000m asl
Same problem happened in a lake at 359m asl.
Could we please get any suggestions/advice/tips and explanation of that?
Really appreciated
Hi @Stefy -
You should refer to these instructions to get the most out of your radios - but keep in mind it is possible to configure them to use more RF power than may be permitted in your region!
If you continue to have issues, a directional antenna connected to your base station and kept pointing at the BlueBoat can achieve ranges of up to 1 km (don’t forget the correct type-N adapter to connect it!) If you need more range than this, if cell coverage is available in the area you’re working that may be your best bet!
Is there any additional configuration for the wifi routers other than changing the antenna gain to 17 (if using the directional antenna you just linked).
Having recently retired from a large telecommunications company, I strongly suggest using the highest quality RF cable, as short as possible for this. Otherwise, you will lose the gain from that yagi in cable loss. Something like this will work and has the correct connectors to match the antenna Tony recommended. Amazon.com: MPD Digital I LMR400 Ultraflex Times Microwave Coaxial Cable I Nmale to Nmale Connectors I Low Loss RF Coaxial Cable I CB, Ham Radio, Transmitters, Antenna I 10ft : Times Microwave: Electronics
Hi @k-deboer -
We typically couple the directional antenna directly to the antenna, to minimize losses. The upcoming product version of this will include hardware to make this mounting easy! A good cable is definitely recommended if putting the antenna at a distance from the BaseStation, thanks for the share!
@CA_BlueBoat -
Changing the gain is the only thing necessary, and it is only done to stay within regulated power output.
I have the same problem, is very lmportant the verticallity of the antenna. It is a folding antenna that tends to lose its verticality. I think is a fail of desing this but, only is my opinion…
Try adjusting the position of the box containing the wifi router to the verticality of the antenna and not the other way around. It will gain a lot of stability. And raise it as much as you can
Something as simple as being able to power the vertical router with the antenna opposite the base, which can’t be done, 75% of communication problems would be solved
Hi @juanjepalomeke -
The antenna on the BlueBoat is held in the vertical position by the deck antenna guard. Can you explain what you mean by
being able to power the vertical router with the antenna opposite the base
?
This is the problem I have noticed, the antenna loses its verticality
