Quote:
Originally Posted by capngeo
Wow! quite the endeavor!
I'm a get-my-internet-over-cellular kinda guy, but I like your idea. Does it seek signal on its own or do yo find it, then let it track from there on?
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I am still working on the scanning algorithm. To make sure it doesn't twist wires, Eventually you will be able to initiate a low-speed initial scan. In this mode it finds start and stop angles for each ap detected. It is possible to have multiple starts and stops depending on antenna.
Next it optionally shows you a plot of signal strength vs heading. and allows you to select access points.
I need waterproof enclosure, high torque servo, arduino with 2 axis mag board, usb hub, and 4 way slip rings for usb. So do the math on cost and let me know how much. Luckily same arduino can do much more, like aim
solar panels (next project) or electronically adjust
windvane (to steer
compass or
gps course)
Also you need usb
wifi device, and external antenna (duh) but you needed that anyway.
Same rig can be used for webcams. I plan on programming it to scan horizon for anomalies and signalling
alarm. It is possible to detect ship lights fairly easily at night for example.
Also great way to look around outside from below. Like digital periscope.
Then triangulation, and eventually knowledge of signal strength vs time of day so it can more accurately predict (and plot) expected coverage areas. That way you might see an access point, but it is too weak, you know exactly where you can go (and possibly anchor) that it will
work and at what hours. This mode requires gps and
boat movement, and some
learning time.