Re: How to best Expand RF Range

[JW <JW>]

Dave... this is really excellent stuff! I'm a tinkerer/hack and these
instructions are perfect for people like myself who know just enough
to get into trouble.

 I have a couple of quick questions...
1. What kind of "average" range increase will this modification
provide?  If I have current range of 25', will this boost me to
50'...75'...more?

2. This may be a really "out there" question but:  I have a 30' tv
antenna in the attic of the house (yes: I refuse to pay for
television) and the house is wired with coax.  There is also an
amplifier mounted on the antenna mast.

Can I simply plug my modified CM15A into the existing antenna system
and enjoy the desired results?

Thanks again!
Joe



On Mon, 05 Dec 2005 14:51:17 GMT, nobody@xxxxxxxxxxxx (Dave Houston)
wrote:

>The CM15A's RF circuitry is isolated from the mains so it's a fairly simple
>matter to replace the antenna if you can solder.
>
>I recommend either a turnstile antenna (requires a matching transformer) or
>an eggbeater (requires a short length of 93-ohm coax). I prefer the
>eggbeater as it's a bit more efficient and doesn't require a matching
>transformer.
>
>There are instructions for adding a connector here...
>
>     http://www.accessx10.com/howto_fconnector_page3.html
>
>I suggest using a 50-ohm coax connector (a better impedance match) rather
>than the F-connector shown. You can buy preassembled 50-ohm coax online.
>
>There are instructions for building a turnstile antenna for the MR26A.
>
>     http://www.shed.com/tutor/mr26ant.html
>
>You should also be able to find instructions for building an eggbeater
>although I'm not sure there are any specific to the CM15A or MR26A.
>
>Put the antenna in a central location both horizontally and vertically.
>
>Adding a wideband preamp (Ten-Tec 1001) at the antenna will result in an
>even bigger range increase.
>
>     http://radio.tentec.com/kits/Accessory
>
>JW <JW> wrote:
>
>>I have a dozen modules around the house controlling lights...all on
>>the same phase, so I'm in no hurry to install a phase coupler.
>>
>>What I would like is to expand the RF range within the house, and
>>outside, as well.
>>
>>I have the CM15A centrally located, and it works great as long as I'm
>>within 20 - 25 feet, but beyond that, forget it.
>>
>>What is the best way to extend the range?  I have two floors +
>>basement, and the house is about 75' from end to end.
>>
>>By the way, this is a great forum and the information provided here is
>>much appreciated by newbies like myself.
>>
>>Regards,
>>Joe