How to make a wifi receiver from a modem. DIY USB Wi-Fi adapter from a tablet

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During my next search among radio-electronic trash, I caught my eye Chinese tablet. I didn't have a tablet back cover and battery, and the display was broken. My attention was drawn to a small module connected to the main board via a four-wire cable.

There is a marking on the reverse side CP318 V2.5

A quick search on the Internet revealed that this is a Wi-Fi module with a USB interface, and a datasheet for this particular model was found without any problems. Throwing this module back into the box didn’t raise my hand, so we’ll assemble a full-fledged USB - Wi-Fi adapter for the computer, and stuff everything into the case. Since the module has a power supply of 3.3 Volts, and the USB port of the computer produces a voltage of 5 Volts, it will not be possible to power it directly. Therefore, we will install a board on which we will place a power stabilizer, USB connector, well, let’s solder the module itself onto the board. As a bonus, the module has a separate output for connecting an LED and indicating connection activity, so this function we will also use it.

I sketched out a diagram.

Using this I made a printed circuit board.

I tinned the tracks, drilled holes, and soldered the components. Appearance boards on the side of the tracks.

On the front side of the board there is an LED displaying connection activity, as well as a USB connector for connecting to a computer.

The board was made for a pre-selected case, so the shape of the board exactly matches the shape of the case.

To prevent the board from hanging around inside the case, I cut out rubber gaskets.

The gaskets are simply inserted into the housing halves and the housing is then assembled.

It turns out this is the design.

A cut was made on the side of the body and a piece of plexiglass was inserted.

Through plexiglass we will observe the connection activity indicator.

Now we connect our adapter to the computer.

The computer finds a new device. Download the driver from the Internet and install it.

After installing the driver, the network adapter appears in Device Manager.

That's all, you can use it Wi-Fi connection on a regular desktop computer.

List of radioelements

Designation	Type	Denomination	Quantity	Note	My notepad
R1, R2	Resistor	22 Ohm	2	0805	To notepad
R3	Resistor	390 Ohm	1	0805	To notepad
R4	Resistor	240 Ohm	1	0805	To notepad
R5	Resistor	1 kOhm	1	0805	To notepad
C1, C2	Capacitor	10 µF	2	Tantal_B	To notepad
HL1	LED	Green	1		To notepad
DA1	Chip	1117-ADJ	1	SOT-223

A modern router is usually not just a router; it combines several devices. It can perform different tasks, one of which we will talk about in this article. There is such a device as a Wi-Fi receiver or adapter. Its task is to receive a Wi-Fi signal, in other words, to connect a specific device to a Wi-Fi network. Such adapters are built into laptops, tablets, smartphones, TVs, etc.

There are also external adapters, for example for desktop computers (I wrote about them in the article) or for televisions. But what if we need to connect to the Internet via Wi-Fi the same desktop computer or TV that does not have a built-in Wi-Fi receiver. And we also don’t have an external one. We don’t want to buy it, or there’s simply no such opportunity.

In such a situation, a regular router can help us out; it can act as a Wi-Fi network receiver. That is, it will receive the Internet via Wi-Fi from our wireless network, and transfer it to the device (TV, computer) via network cable.

It should be immediately noted that there are routers that have a separate “Adapter” operating mode. But in most devices, you will need to configure the repeater, bridge (WDS), client, or wireless connection to the provider.

Now we will take a closer look at these modes on routers different manufacturers, and find out how to use the router as a wireless network receiver. Let's consider the most popular manufacturers: TP-LINK, ASUS, ZyXEL, D-Link, Netis. Look below for the header with information about your device.

Making a Wi-Fi receiver from a ZyXEL router

I decided to start with ZyXEL devices. From the line of ZyXEL Keenetic routers. This company's routers support a variety of operating modes. And there is also an “Adapter” mode. On devices with new version NDMS V2 firmware, which is blue in appearance.

In addition, everything is set up very simply and clearly. And everything works. I have already checked all operating modes of the ZyXEL router (using the example of the Keenetic Start model), and of course prepared detailed instructions. Just place the router near your computer or TV, connect them via a network cable, set the “Adapter” mode, and you’re done.

If you suddenly do not have such an operating mode, then you can (wireless connection to provider). By the way, this method can be used on older versions of devices.

Media Bridge Mode

Only in the process of writing this article, on the more expensive Asus RT-N18U model, I discovered the Media Bridge operating mode, which suits us much better than the amplifier mode (even if you look at the operation diagram in the control panel).

But the Asus RT-N12+ does not have this operating mode. Which is logical in principle, since it is not very suitable for serious multimedia tasks. In the near future I will prepare separate instructions for setting up the Media Bridge mode. I'll check everything and write how it fits or not.

Wi-Fi receiver from TP-LINK router

Especially, people often ask how to convert such popular models as TP-LINK TL-WR740N, TL-WR841N, etc. into a receiver.

On such devices you will have to use bridge mode, also known as WDS.

Since in repeater mode, these routers do not work (I wrote about this). I just can’t say anything about the new routers from TP-LINK yet. Perhaps there is already support for different operating modes. I know that only access points from TP-LINK can work in repeater mode. And as far as I know there is no adapter mode.

There are also separate instructions for setting up WDS mode on TP-LINK:

I can say with confidence that in bridge mode the Internet from a TP-LINK router via a network cable works. There were many questions about this, I asked TP-LINK support, everything works. You just need to disable DHCP. The article linked above has all the information you need.

D-Link router as a receiver

I can’t give an exact answer for all models. D-Link routers, but based on my own experience, I can say that to use these routers as an adapter, they can be configured in wireless client mode. Tested on DIR-615, DIR-300.

It must be admitted that this mode of operation D-Link router Great for distributing Internet via cable. In addition, it is possible to disable the wireless network, which is very useful.

More detailed instructions for setting up client mode on D-Link devices, see here: . See after the heading "Connecting a D-Link router to another router via Wi-Fi (client mode)". Everything is described there in detail. Perhaps I will prepare a separate instruction later.

Adapter (client) mode on Netis routers

If you have a Netis router and you want to use it to connect devices to the Internet via a network cable, then it is best to configure it in “Client” mode. You can also use it without any problems. I checked, everything works.

Setting up a router in "Client" mode

It's very simple. In the settings, which can be accessed at netis.cc go to advanced settings by clicking on the big button Advanced and immediately go to the “Wireless Mode” tab – “ Wi-Fi Settings". In the "Radio Mode" drop-down menu, select "Client". Click on the "AP Scan" button.

A list will appear available networks, with which you can establish a connection. Opposite your network, select the "Connect." switch. Click on the "Connect" button.

Then set a password for the main Wi-Fi network, and click on the “Save” button.

After these steps, my router rebooted, and the Internet immediately started working via cable.

Important point: In client mode, the Netis router does not broadcast the Wi-Fi network, which is very good. If you need Internet via cable and Wi-Fi, then configure it in repeater mode (link to instructions is above).

Afterword

Later I will try to add information on other manufacturers: Tenda, Linksys, etc.

Almost any router can be turned into a receiver. Many people, I think, have old router, which is already just collecting dust on the shelf, and only takes up space. And it may still come in handy. And replace the adapter for desktop computer, TV, game console and other devices. So as not to delay network cable through the whole house.

Purchase a USB wireless dongle adapter. Thanks to this finger-sized device, your computer can connect to Wi-Fi networks. You need it even if your computer already has a built-in wireless network adapter.

For best compatibility, buy a Wi-Fi adapter that also works with the 802.11b and 802.11g standards.
To find out the cost, visit Google Commerce or Pricewatch. Simple adapters that are quite effective at close range will cost about $15-$20.
Form matters. For optimal savings, choose a small finger-shaped adapter. The larger "squash mouse" adapters ($50 - $60) are generally more sensitive and powerful. Although they can be difficult to install, they perform better in more challenging environments.

We buy a passive USB extension cable. You need a Type A (male) - Type A (female) cable. You can purchase it at a one-price store, local computer store, or online. With it you connect the USB Wi-Fi adapter to USB port computer.

The antenna is directional, so you need to place it so that it faces the wireless point access. Make sure the cable is long enough (maximum length 5m) to place the antenna in the desired location.
If necessary, you can connect multiple extension cables.
Active USB extenders (~$10 USD) allow you to use cables longer than 5m, allowing you to mount the antenna even higher for best results.

Take a mesh colander. It is best to use an Asian "scoop" type cookware (like a wok, but with a mesh), which is used for frying. Its shape is perfect for our purposes and it also comes with a wooden handle!

You can also use a sieve, steamer, pot lid and lamp shade, provided they are hemispherical in shape and made of metal. Any mesh piece of parabolic shaped metal will do - the larger the better the signal, although this may make installation more difficult.
For larger options, old parabolic ones are suitable TV antennas or mesh umbrella frame. Although they will give greater signal gain, there may be problems with installation and aerodynamic drag, so a 300mm diameter seems to be the most practical.
Flexible leg from table lamp will allow you to carefully install and point your antenna.

We assemble the system. Using wire, adhesive tape or hot glue, attach the Wi-Fi adapter and USB extension cable to the plate.

The adapter must be installed in the center of the dish's "hot spot" - radio signals enter the dish and are reflected to the center a few fingers above its surface.
The best location for the adapter can be determined through a simple experiment. One method is to cover a plate with aluminum foil to determine how it reflects sunlight - the most illuminated point is the focal point of the plate.
You may need a small rod to secure the adapter in position.
Alternative securing methods: Use string tied to the front of the plate in a web pattern, scraped out plastic garden hose fittings, or even chopsticks!

Antenna connection. Connect one end USB extender(male) into your computer, and in the network settings, configure it as a Wi-Fi adapter.

IN lately The number of Internet users is increasing. Many people want to use wireless Internet, so any user should know how to make a wi-fi transmitter and receiver. This is very beneficial, because one router allows all devices that are within its coverage area and support the Internet to use the Internet.

What a given router should be like, everyone decides for themselves; there are a lot of active factors that need to be taken into account. A standard device consists of a power supply, from which it actually works, a port for connecting to the Internet via a modem, various USB inputs, and so on.

There is very, very large number There are about forty types of routers, TP-Link alone. The choice of a particular router is determined by its power, operating speed and the number of devices that can uninterruptedly use the network from one router.

Transmitter power wi-fi router Each model is different. It all depends on what kind of power you initially need to achieve. But, do not forget that any router converts the incoming speed, since the router’s router cannot save the initial incoming signal. But, first of all, it all depends on the room in which the router will be used, so for a one-room apartment a router with a power of up to five to six decibels is quite enough.

Wi-Fi signal map should distribute a good level of data transmission speed over the entire required area. Therefore, when purchasing, check with the sellers about the capabilities of the card installed in the selected router.

USB models. It is worth noting that models with USB are more expensive than simple routers. The main difference between routers with USB is that they are suitable for connecting the entire system to the wireless Internet, while a simple router is only suitable for organizing the operation of a local network.

In different countries, the officially permitted power of a wi-fi transmitter is different; it depends on many factors of connecting the router. Depending on the location of the router, its characteristics and features, the structure of the wi-fi signal changes. Through various manipulations, the user can adjust the structure to suit himself. Using powerful wi-fi transmitters, the Internet coverage area reaches several kilometers.

If you still create for yourself wireless internet with the help of this device, then you need to carefully study all the features of one or another model, which is more suitable. It is important to decide whether the chosen modification is suitable.

How to make a wifi transceiver?

Many people are faced with the fact that the signal reception level is very low. This is due to the fact that the wifi transmitter and receiver are separated by some obstacles: walls, furniture, which degrade the signal. The problem can be solved by purchasing a modern or modifying an old device. The new wireless wifi transmitter must have a stronger signal than the existing one.

Option #1. There are a large number of options on how to make a wifi transmitter. The simplest Wi-Fi transmitter is made from a tin can; it works well at short and medium distances.

Required material:

can;
N-type RF connector;
wire.

Not any cans are suitable for making a transceiver, since ribbed ones scatter waves, so you need to take a smooth one tin can diameter 8.3 cm, length 21 cm. In addition, an N-type RF connector with a nut of 1.2-1.6 cm, copper or brass wire (length 4 cm, diameter 0.2 cm) and standard tools are required.

Manufacturing progress. Cut off the top of the beer can, rinse thoroughly and make a hole the diameter of your N-type RF connector 6.2 cm from the bottom. The stripped copper wire is soldered to the N-type RF connector in the upward direction. Then the RF connector is secured with a nut. Wifi transceiver is ready.

Finished antenna photo:

Option #2. Wifi transmitters can be made from disc blanks. You will need a regular box for 25 discs.

Manufacturing progress. Cut the spindle at a distance of 1.8 cm, form round slots into which a double square of wire is attached using glue (length 25 cm, diameter 0.25 cm). A disk is glued to the bottom of the box. A cable is soldered into the center, which is secured with reverse side boxes.

If desired, you can make wifi transmitters or improve existing ones. Making a transceiver is not difficult, the main thing is to maintain the correct dimensions and proportions and do everything carefully. Connecting such Wi-Fi transmitters to a laptop is very simple, anyone can do it.

How to transfer data via wifi?

Wi-fi transmitter power. The Wi-Fi transmitter power parameter is one of the most important, since it is responsible for the network coverage area.

There are two ways to increase the power of a wi-fi transmitter:

programmatically;
using additional equipment.

The first is to change the system settings of the equipment, since not every installer sets exactly the maximum values when connecting. The second method is solved by installing additional antennas in the router or replacing the emitting device. Installing additional antennas may only be possible in certain router models.

Wi-Fi reception and transmission may be disrupted due to the presence of thick walls or if the device is placed in a metal box that has a high refractive index. To get rid of this effect, you need to move the device to the central part of the room. You can connect it with existing network using embedded twisted pair sockets.

PLC adapter from Rostelecom

When there is no internal wiring, you will need to use PLC adapters that output transceiver signals to the electrical wiring and, accordingly, to the router. If the room area is large, wireless wi-fi data transmission will require the installation of additional repeaters that distribute and amplify the signal.

Wi-fi audio transmitter. For transfer sound files At a distance, repeaters of the 802.11 standard are also used, which have an audio output. Such devices can often be found on the market. They are a small adapter with an antenna on one end and a cable output on the other, which makes it possible to connect to speakers, a stereo system, a TV or other devices.

The Wi-Fi audio transmitter, like any other device operating according to this standard, requires configuration for normal data transportation.

When designing a network wireless transmission data, the area of the object should be taken into account, as well as the power and technical data of the device providing communication. For more accurate measurements, it is recommended to use special equipment. If calculated correctly, uninterrupted operation of the Wi-Fi network will be ensured throughout the entire premises, capable of transmitting both regular files and audio content.

Video transmission via wifi

Modern technologies make it possible to transmit video signals to good quality at a distance in several ways. However, wireless methods for acquiring images on remote media are most often used. Thus, a video signal via Wi-Fi is transmitted to various electronic equipment through special receiving devices. In various forms computer equipment the necessary receivers are already present, which is an advantage of wi-fi.

Analogue video transmission via wifi. Transferring analog video over Wi-Fi may be difficult due to poor software performance on a specific device or desktop personal computer. When to use this method When receiving images from a distance, difficulties often arise in the settings between clients and server. IN general case There are more disadvantages of this method than advantages.

Many manufacturers offer to buy a Wi-Fi video transmitter from their own company, but consumers should pay attention to its configuration, operating frequency and software orientation.

Wi-Fi video devices can transmit a signal at a distance of 100 m, which is also an important factor when choosing the device in question.

IN modern world video via wi-fi is broadcast to mobile phone, if you first install the appropriate program and select the appropriate device. You can set a password to protect transmitted video data.