A WiFi Bridge can link your network
to another network so that resources like Internet
can be shared. Bridging devices work together
in pairs so you will need two units. One unit is
placed at each network. When a WiFi connection is
established between both bridging units then the
two networks become one.
A WiFi bridge is different from a
WiFi router because it is able to connect two
networks using WiFi. A normal WiFi router must
connect to other networks using an Ethernet
cable.
Setup
It is best to
initially setup both bridging units in the same
room before relocating them to their final
location. Run the setup CD on a nearby computer
and follow the instructions. Once both bridges are
communicating with each other then you can
continue by placing each item in its final
location.
Most WiFi bridging devices come
pre-installed with a small antenna that can be
upgraded to a larger antenna for extended WiFi
range. When using a bridge it is best to mount
your antenna outdoors where line of sight can be
achieved without obstructions. In this case you
may need to extend low-loss coaxial cable between
the antenna jack on the bridge and the outdoor
antenna.
Boosting
Power
If all your
equipment is setup and aligned properly and you
are still not getting connected then you may need
to boost the power. This requires another piece of
equipment called a WiFi Signal Booster. This WiFi Signal
Booster has two coaxial connectors
so it can be placed in-line with the antenna.
Connect the "Input" jack on the signal booster to
the antenna jack on the bridge. Next connect the
"Antenna" jack on the signal booster to the
coaxial cable that leads to your outdoor antenna.
If you're using the linked signal booster
above with the equipment
used in this illustration, then you will also need
a special connector
fitting along with a special
pigtail. For even
more power add a WiFi signal booster
to both bridges.
FCC Power
Output Rules
Unfortunately
there are power restrictions (laws) when using
WiFi that if exceeded could land you in jail. The
FCC limits your total power output using a sliding
scale. The scale starts at 30dBm of
amplification power while using a 6dBi
directional antenna. Then for every 1dBm you
drop in amplification power you can increase
the power of your directional antenna
by 3dBi.
Using a larger
point-to-point antenna, your beam pattern will
cover less area and cause less interference for
others. This is why the FCC allows this sliding
scale.
