Monday, September 21, 2015

An Aluminum Can as a Wi-Fi Extender


Use an Aluminum Can as a Wi-Fi Extender
Not only is this clever use of a beer/soda can an ultra cheap tech hack, it also means less fiddling around with cardboard and aluminum foil as required by other hack methods. This method has been proven to improve Wi-Fi reception from around 2 bars to about 4 on average, varying between 3 and 5. Give it a go – all you've got to waste is a beer/soda can!

Steps

  1. Make a Wi Fi Booster Using Only a Can Step 1 Version 2.jpg
    - Watch a 10 second video
    1
    Gather the required materials and tools. These are listed below under "Things You'll Need".
  2. Make a Wi Fi Booster Using Only a Can Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    - Watch a 10 second video
    2
    Clean the beer can. Make sure there is no residue left inside.
  3. Make a Wi Fi Booster Using Only a Can Step 3 Version 2.jpg
    - Watch a 10 second video
    3
    Take the ring-pull off the can.
  4. Make a Wi Fi Booster Using Only a Can Step 4 Version 2.jpg
    - Watch a 10 second video
    4
    Cut the end off the beer can where there's no opening. Do this using the Stanley knife or similar suitable safety knife.
  5. Make a Wi Fi Booster Using Only a Can Step 5 Version 2.jpg
    - Watch a 10 second video
    5
    Cut around the end with the opening almost all the way. Leave a little bit of metal to keep attached the part that will be the base (see the white line in the illustration).
  6. Make a Wi Fi Booster Using Only a Can Step 6 Version 2.jpg
    - Watch a 10 second video
    6
    Cut along the middle of the can in a straight line, opposite to the piece of metal attaching the base.
  7. Make a Wi Fi Booster Using Only a Can Step 7 Version 2.jpg
    - Watch a 10 second video
    7
    Being careful, open up the middle piece of metal by bending it until it vaguely resembles the shape of a radar dish.
  8. Make a Wi Fi Booster Using Only a Can Step 8 Version 2.jpg
    - Watch a 10 second video
    8
    Place the completed Wi-Fi booster on your router. Place it so that the antenna pokes through the opening, and stick the base of the can to the router with a small piece of poster tack or other suitable adhesive. It's time to test how much your Wi-Fi is now boosted! 
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