Amplification warning

RemE said:
As an additional data point, I just added a RP-SMA connector to a stock range extender to add an 8db Omni whip as others have done. I put my immersion power meter on it just now and measured 79mW so they do seem to vary I guess?

That is interesting. Thanks for the data point.
 
themosttoys said:
theSelf said:
thanks for your reply thermosstoys- you are helping greatly and I appreciate it.. Thanks, you are welcome

so to confirm-both of the p2v camera's VTX's 2 STOCK circularly polarized antennas are LHCP and not RHCP..? (not planning on changing the camera/VTX's antennas) ...Harder to find LHCP clover leafs etc.. just trying to match on the repeater end with a correctly circularly polarized antenna.. Correct, the stock antennas are LHCP

I currently have this 14dbi patch antenna- http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003CFATOC/ref ... E06YCPLW6X Great linear patch antenna.

and these 2 U.FL Mini PCI to RP-SMA Pigtail Antenna WiFi Cables http://www.amazon.com/U-FL-RP-SMA-Pigta ... 005UWD0EG.. Link didn't work for me, but I'm sure they are fine. It will not make a real world difference, but if given the choice I use rg178 cables for permanent installations.

I was thinking of getting this 8dbi omini directional antenna to swap out from the patch when more convenient... http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6833997226 or this more portable smaller 5dbi equivalent- http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6833997208 Both good omni antenna's

however, should I Instead get this 2.4Ghz cloverleaf circularly polarized antenna (it is RHCP though) http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=813 instead of the 8dbi or 5dbi linear omnidirectional antennas? A great antenna, I'm a BIG IBCrazy fan, but for this situation I'd go with Skew Planar rather than Cloverleaf.(would the clover leaf produce better range than the 5dbi, 8dbi or even 14dbi linear antennas above)? There is not a simple answer, the linear antennas have higher gain and theoretically greater range, but it also depends on the ontenna on the other side and flying conditionsShould this antenna be RHCP or LHCP (connected to the VRX/repeater only based on which way you confirm the stock camera/VTX's antennas are polarized)? Cloverleaf or skew planar? (Should I get rid of the huge 14 dbi patch antenna altogether and get this 9dbi helical antenna instead of the patch (also RHCP or LHCP equivalent): http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=487 Another great IBCrazy antenna. Personally I would / will go with a Skew Planar and Helical. It's not that much more inconvenient than the whips and produces better overall results for me.

So amplifiers can indeed make a difference connected to the receiver (as opposed to transmitter)? (I would think the transmitted signal could and would only be amplified..you can amplify an incoming (unamplified) signal to the VRX/repeater for better reception also? Yes, most amps are bidirectional and will also amplify RX signal, but the overall effect will be much less than amplifying TX.So the 6db antennuators in the above ebay link you posted would best over the 3db ones? In my situation they are best, although either will work fine (I initially used 3db and it worked fine but after testing my stock TX output, I switched to 6db).

You mentioned also in an earlier post that you can upgrade the stock p2v TX/remote controller 5.8GHz antenna to a 7dbi whip or 11 dbi patch- are there any specific proven versions of these antennas you can recommend and any specific info anywhere already posted on how to change the stock TX antenna? I use this http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E37BPKA/ref ... 1_ST1_dp_1 and this http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... OC:US:3160

Gratefully,

Justin
hi thermosstoys

thank you for taking the time to again answer my rather lengthy post again- greatly appreciated- you're awesome!

if the camera/VTX antennas are LHCP- and you say a cloverleaf LHCP antenna would be required on the VRX/repeater- I'm not sure where to get a LHCP cloverleaf antenna from as most ready made ones online I've found so far only seem RHCP- is the only option to make one by hand (not within my current skill set or available time right now) or do you know where there are LHCP antennas ready made to purchase? How did you get around this?

Is the 3dbi 5.5 Ghz antenna you posted the link to an improvement over the stock TX antenna? Doesn't look much of a difference- what is the dbi gain on the stock TX antenna?

Alternatively I found these 5.8 GHz alternate antennas with gains between the patch and the 3dbi ones..

5.8Ghz 9dBi High Gain Antenna SMA Connector Audio Video AV Link Wireless Receiver FPV Airplane 5.8G Aerial
http://www.fpvmodel.com/5-8ghz-9dbi-hig ... _g146.html

and

AN5805 - HIGH GAIN WHIP ANTENNA 5.8 GHz 5dBi - RPSMA
http://hobbywireless.com/index.php?main ... cts_id=613

and FPV 12dBi 5.8GHz Antenna http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/stor ... tenna.html

Will the other U.FL Mini PCI to RP-SMA Pigtail Antenna WiFi Cable I have (here's the correct link- http://www.amazon.com/U-FL-RP-SMA-Pigta ... B005UWD0EG ) also work with connecting the upgraded 5.8ghz antenna to the TX correctly, whilst being 'plug n play''/swappable as per my needs? If there is a tutorial on doing this already posted anywhere online, I'd be grateful to be pointed in the right direction too
 
theSelf said:
hi thermosstoys

thank you for taking the time to again answer my rather lengthy post again- greatly appreciated- you're awesome! Thanks for the kind words. Interest and learning are good things. I'm happy to do what I can to help as I too am continuously learning.

if the camera/VTX antennas are LHCP- and you say a cloverleaf LHCP antenna would be required on the VRX/repeater- I'm not sure where to get a LHCP cloverleaf antenna from as most ready made ones online I've found so far only seem RHCP- is the only option to make one by hand (not within my current skill set or available time right now) or do you know where there are LHCP antennas ready made to purchase? How did you get around this? I got around it by installing different antennas (linear and RHCP Skew Planar). I only recently learned that the stock antennas were LHCP and had already gone done the path I'm on. You are correct that there are not many LHCP options. If you would like to try, I might recommend something like this (It's what I would have tried): http://www.l-com.com/wireless-antenna-2 ... h-antennas

Is the 3dbi 5.5 Ghz antenna you posted the link to an improvement over the stock TX antenna? Doesn't look much of a difference- what is the dbi gain on the stock TX antenna? It is about the same. I got it because once I changed to a pigtail, the stock antenna was no longer an option.

Alternatively I found these 5.8 GHz alternate antennas with gains between the patch and the 3dbi ones..

5.8Ghz 9dBi High Gain Antenna SMA Connector Audio Video AV Link Wireless Receiver FPV Airplane 5.8G Aerial
http://www.fpvmodel.com/5-8ghz-9dbi-hig ... _g146.html

and

AN5805 - HIGH GAIN WHIP ANTENNA 5.8 GHz 5dBi - RPSMA
http://hobbywireless.com/index.php?main ... cts_id=613

and FPV 12dBi 5.8GHz Antenna http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/stor ... tenna.html
Cool, if you try any, let us know how they perform for you.


Will the other U.FL Mini PCI to RP-SMA Pigtail Antenna WiFi Cable I have (here's the correct link- http://www.amazon.com/U-FL-RP-SMA-Pigta ... B005UWD0EG ) also work with connecting the upgraded 5.8ghz antenna to the TX correctly, whilst being 'plug n play''/swappable as per my needs? If there is a tutorial on doing this already posted anywhere online, I'd be grateful to be pointed in the right direction too. Yes it will, just be sure that you get an antenna that is RP-SMA (I noticed that at least one of your links was SMA and not RP-SMA) otherwise you will need a converter or a different pigtail.
 
themosttoys said:
theSelf said:
hi thermosstoys

thank you for taking the time to again answer my rather lengthy post again- greatly appreciated- you're awesome! Thanks for the kind words. Interest and learning are good things. I'm happy to do what I can to help as I too am continuously learning.

if the camera/VTX antennas are LHCP- and you say a cloverleaf LHCP antenna would be required on the VRX/repeater- I'm not sure where to get a LHCP cloverleaf antenna from as most ready made ones online I've found so far only seem RHCP- is the only option to make one by hand (not within my current skill set or available time right now) or do you know where there are LHCP antennas ready made to purchase? How did you get around this? I got around it by installing different antennas (linear and RHCP Skew Planar). I only recently learned that the stock antennas were LHCP and had already gone done the path I'm on. You are correct that there are not many LHCP options. If you would like to try, I might recommend something like this (It's what I would have tried): http://www.l-com.com/wireless-antenna-2 ... h-antennas

Is the 3dbi 5.5 Ghz antenna you posted the link to an improvement over the stock TX antenna? Doesn't look much of a difference- what is the dbi gain on the stock TX antenna? It is about the same. I got it because once I changed to a pigtail, the stock antenna was no longer an option.

Alternatively I found these 5.8 GHz alternate antennas with gains between the patch and the 3dbi ones..

5.8Ghz 9dBi High Gain Antenna SMA Connector Audio Video AV Link Wireless Receiver FPV Airplane 5.8G Aerial
http://www.fpvmodel.com/5-8ghz-9dbi-hig ... _g146.html

and

AN5805 - HIGH GAIN WHIP ANTENNA 5.8 GHz 5dBi - RPSMA
http://hobbywireless.com/index.php?main ... cts_id=613

and FPV 12dBi 5.8GHz Antenna http://www.hobbyking.com/hobbyking/stor ... tenna.html
Cool, if you try any, let us know how they perform for you.


Will the other U.FL Mini PCI to RP-SMA Pigtail Antenna WiFi Cable I have (here's the correct link- http://www.amazon.com/U-FL-RP-SMA-Pigta ... B005UWD0EG ) also work with connecting the upgraded 5.8ghz antenna to the TX correctly, whilst being 'plug n play''/swappable as per my needs? If there is a tutorial on doing this already posted anywhere online, I'd be grateful to be pointed in the right direction too. Yes it will, just be sure that you get an antenna that is RP-SMA (I noticed that at least one of your links was SMA and not RP-SMA) otherwise you will need a converter or a different pigtail.
thanks again thermosstoys- somehow missed your post/wasn't notified..

the 2.4 GHz 8 dBi Circular Polarized LH Flat Patch Antennas- looks interesting- I take it that the 'LH' means it is indeed Left Hand circularly polarized as it doesn't confirm on that page- very tempting if it is..this is a directional circularly polarized patch (non omini/cloverleaf or skew planar) ? Any estimation on what kind of range this could provide?

At this stage thinking of just modding 1 of the ports on the repeater for now with the ufl to RP-SMA connector (leaving the other stock antenna in the repeater as it is for close in diveristy)- and having swappable plug n play' antennas for that one port for different applications - not modding the p2v camera/vtx antennas at this stage...

I have the 14 dbi tp link linear patch antenna which is huge (not sure how to mount to a tripod let alone the repeater)- and perhaps a 5 or 9 dbi linear whip for closer in ops and potentially this 8 dBi Circular Polarized LH Flat Patch Antenna you posted..and may likely experiment with the 1W argtek amplifier and 6dbi attenuator mentioned earlier between the repeater's modded RP-SMA connector, attenuator and antenna..just to be clear of the order- do I fist connect the amplifier to the modded RP-SMA connector on the repeater, then add the attenuator and then the antenna on top of the attenuator or does it go in another sequence?

Someone on another post said just adding the one 14dbi tp link patch has created 3300ft in range alone (no other mods to repeater or p2v vtx/camera)..adding an amplifier will possibly add a lot more? I also heard the stock TX 5.8GHz antenna's range is around 3300ft- so if I start exceeding that, then I'll consider upgrading that antenna, probably to a higher gain whip than a narrower radiation patch..

ps- the attenuator ebay link you suggested http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... OC:US:3160 is down for the chinese new year..found this instead- will this work too? http://www.ebay.com/itm/RF-Coaxial-Atte ... 1252558899

edit: what about this sequence of parts if adding the amplifier in this order- first make the ufl to male rp sma mod/cable on the repeater- then attach the argtek amplifier (with a rp sma female to male adapter which I already have)- from amplifier to attentuator, I will need a rp sma female to sma female adapter- http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=432 then add the 6db attenuator (connecting male sma end to aforementioned adapter) and then I'll need a sma male to rp sma female adapter like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMA-Male-To-RP- ... 1e7df38cde and then I can finally attach my antenna of choice via it rp sma female connector to the last adapter.. (phew).. does this right to you- pretty compicated and lots of research- just hope th sis right..?

by the way- for everyone keeping their stock repeater- someone else in another post suggested simply keeping the stock repeater plugged into a portable USB charger to maximize range as range is known to drop as the repeater's charge drops- ordered this portable USB charging pack (in white of course) for only $5.99 shipped to do this- http://www.ebay.com/itm/171187642605 - will this be necessary with an amplifier in the mix on the repeater?

Gratefully,

Justin
 
theSelf said:
thanks again thermosstoys- somehow missed your post/wasn't notified..

the 2.4 GHz 8 dBi Circular Polarized LH Flat Patch Antennas- looks interesting- I take it that the 'LH' means it is indeed Left Hand circularly polarized as it doesn't confirm on that page Correct, LH = Left-handed- very tempting if it is..this is a directional circularly polarized patch (non omini/cloverleaf or skew planar) ? Correct.Any estimation on what kind of range this could provide? I could do the math or guess, but best to test. If PVFlyers results are any indication (he is using LH Helical's) the results will be better than the 14db TPLink, with a smaller antenna.

At this stage thinking of just modding 1 of the ports on the repeater for now with the ufl to RP-SMA connector (leaving the other stock antenna in the repeater as it is for close in diveristy)- and having swappable plug n play' antennas for that one port for different applications - not modding the p2v camera/vtx antennas at this stage...Sounds good, just remember to have an antenna attached to the port before turning the repeater on.

I have the 14 dbi tp link linear patch antenna which is huge (not sure how to mount to a tripod let alone the repeater)- That's a good antenna, yes it is huge. Some are taping / velcroing it to the front of the repeater. Others are using gopro mount and taping the repeater to the back of the pad it is normally attached to (better solution). Of course you could separate it and mount it to a tripod.and perhaps a 5 or 9 dbi linear whip for closer in ops and potentially this 8 dBi Circular Polarized LH Flat Patch Antenna you posted..and may likely experiment with the 1W argtek amplifier and 6dbi attenuator mentioned earlier between the repeater's modded RP-SMA connector, attenuator and antenna.. Lots of confusion, the Argtek is a repeater, you use it instead of the stock repeater not with it.just to be clear of the order- do I fist connect the amplifier to the modded RP-SMA connector on the repeater, then add the attenuator and then the antenna on top of the attenuator or does it go in another sequence? If you use an amplifier (not a repeater like the Argtek, but an actual amplifier / booster, like a Sunhans, you would go from the RP-SMA connector on the stock repeater to the attenuator then to the amplifier / booster then an antenna on the other side of the amp / booster.

Someone on another post said just adding the one 14dbi tp link patch has created 3300ft in range alone (no other mods to repeater or p2v vtx/camera)Yes that is a good antenna, however at 2000 to 2500 feet I needed to fly sideways to go over 3000...adding an amplifier will possibly add a lot more? Will give a little more, but amplification is not as important or produce results like antennas (on both sides).I also heard the stock TX 5.8GHz antenna's range is around 3300ft- Two days ago I went over 2 miles with the stock TX, But I have also lost connection at 1.1 miles (see: viewtopic.php?f=7&t=6446 so if I start exceeding that, then I'll consider upgrading that antenna, probably to a higher gain whip than a narrower radiation patch..

ps- the attenuator ebay link you suggested http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... OC:US:3160 is down for the chinese new year..found this instead- will this work too? http://www.ebay.com/itm/RF-Coaxial-Atte ... 1252558899 Yes, that will work.

edit: what about this sequence of parts if adding the amplifier in this order- first make the ufl to male rp sma mod/cable on the repeater- then attach the argtek amplifier (with a rp sma female to male adapter which I already have)- from amplifier to attentuator, I will need a rp sma female to sma female adapter- http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=432 then add the 6db attenuator (connecting male sma end to aforementioned adapter) and then I'll need a sma male to rp sma female adapter like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMA-Male-To-RP- ... 1e7df38cde and then I can finally attach my antenna of choice via it rp sma female connector to the last adapter.. (phew).. does this right to you- pretty compicated and lots of research- just hope th sis right..?

by the way- for everyone keeping their stock repeater- someone else in another post suggested simply keeping the stock repeater plugged into a portable USB charger to maximize range as range is known to drop as the repeater's charge drops- ordered this portable USB charging pack (in white of course) for only $5.99 shipped to do this- http://www.ebay.com/itm/171187642605 - will this be necessary with an amplifier in the mix on the repeater?

Gratefully,

Justin
 
themosttoys said:
theSelf said:
thanks again thermosstoys- somehow missed your post/wasn't notified..

the 2.4 GHz 8 dBi Circular Polarized LH Flat Patch Antennas- looks interesting- I take it that the 'LH' means it is indeed Left Hand circularly polarized as it doesn't confirm on that page Correct, LH = Left-handed- very tempting if it is..this is a directional circularly polarized patch (non omini/cloverleaf or skew planar) ? Correct.Any estimation on what kind of range this could provide? I could do the math or guess, but best to test. If PVFlyers results are any indication (he is using LH Helical's) the results will be better than the 14db TPLink, with a smaller antenna.

At this stage thinking of just modding 1 of the ports on the repeater for now with the ufl to RP-SMA connector (leaving the other stock antenna in the repeater as it is for close in diveristy)- and having swappable plug n play' antennas for that one port for different applications - not modding the p2v camera/vtx antennas at this stage...Sounds good, just remember to have an antenna attached to the port before turning the repeater on.

I have the 14 dbi tp link linear patch antenna which is huge (not sure how to mount to a tripod let alone the repeater)- That's a good antenna, yes it is huge. Some are taping / velcroing it to the front of the repeater. Others are using gopro mount and taping the repeater to the back of the pad it is normally attached to (better solution). Of course you could separate it and mount it to a tripod.and perhaps a 5 or 9 dbi linear whip for closer in ops and potentially this 8 dBi Circular Polarized LH Flat Patch Antenna you posted..and may likely experiment with the 1W argtek amplifier and 6dbi attenuator mentioned earlier between the repeater's modded RP-SMA connector, attenuator and antenna.. Lots of confusion, the Argtek is a repeater, you use it instead of the stock repeater not with it.just to be clear of the order- do I fist connect the amplifier to the modded RP-SMA connector on the repeater, then add the attenuator and then the antenna on top of the attenuator or does it go in another sequence? If you use an amplifier (not a repeater like the Argtek, but an actual amplifier / booster, like a Sunhans, you would go from the RP-SMA connector on the stock repeater to the attenuator then to the amplifier / booster then an antenna on the other side of the amp / booster.

Someone on another post said just adding the one 14dbi tp link patch has created 3300ft in range alone (no other mods to repeater or p2v vtx/camera)Yes that is a good antenna, however at 2000 to 2500 feet I needed to fly sideways to go over 3000...adding an amplifier will possibly add a lot more? Will give a little more, but amplification is not as important or produce results like antennas (on both sides).I also heard the stock TX 5.8GHz antenna's range is around 3300ft- Two days ago I went over 2 miles with the stock TX, But I have also lost connection at 1.1 miles (see: viewtopic.php?f=7&t=6446 so if I start exceeding that, then I'll consider upgrading that antenna, probably to a higher gain whip than a narrower radiation patch..

ps- the attenuator ebay link you suggested http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... OC:US:3160 is down for the chinese new year..found this instead- will this work too? http://www.ebay.com/itm/RF-Coaxial-Atte ... 1252558899 Yes, that will work.

edit: what about this sequence of parts if adding the amplifier in this order- first make the ufl to male rp sma mod/cable on the repeater- then attach the argtek amplifier (with a rp sma female to male adapter which I already have)- from amplifier to attentuator, I will need a rp sma female to sma female adapter- http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=432 then add the 6db attenuator (connecting male sma end to aforementioned adapter) and then I'll need a sma male to rp sma female adapter like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMA-Male-To-RP- ... 1e7df38cde and then I can finally attach my antenna of choice via it rp sma female connector to the last adapter.. (phew).. does this right to you- pretty compicated and lots of research- just hope th sis right..?

by the way- for everyone keeping their stock repeater- someone else in another post suggested simply keeping the stock repeater plugged into a portable USB charger to maximize range as range is known to drop as the repeater's charge drops- ordered this portable USB charging pack (in white of course) for only $5.99 shipped to do this- http://www.ebay.com/itm/171187642605 - will this be necessary with an amplifier in the mix on the repeater?

Gratefully,

Justin

thanks again buddy- wow I was totally confused then- I originally purchased the argtek for boosting my Frsky 2.4Ghz RC TX control range -and still haven't got round to doing that yet.. I originally purchased it from rangevideo as they were getting 40km and more flying fixed wing fpv aircraft with this device boosting the 2.4Ghz range.. it is sold as an 'amplifier' for boosting the signal transmitted from the FrSky module which confused me- so it won't act to amplify the incoming received signal going into the repeater equally? http://old.rangevideo.com/index.php?mai ... ts_id=245.. for fun- here's a video of this amplifier.frsky combo flying 40 km- https://vimeo.com/23705882 - not sure what you mean by how this instead could act as a replacement repeater, how that would be set up and what if any range improvements it will create..?

if this is the case then and especially as you think amplifying the received signal only makes a negligible difference in range- I'll stick with the above, minus adding the amplifier- but am on the trigger for the LHCP patch antenna purely for smaller in size for better range- seems like a win- win..

I have ordered the TP link 8dbi whip also

regarding 'flying sideways'- did you know when to start flying sideways when you first started losing video signal and if so is there a specific approach to successfully doing that to add the range? ie. can you you yaw the p2v at that distance and the wifi video signal will drop and come back again as the sides of the p2v face away from you (front and back towards you) and towards you (sides towards you) respectively?
 
theSelf said:
themosttoys said:
theSelf said:
thanks again thermosstoys- somehow missed your post/wasn't notified..

the 2.4 GHz 8 dBi Circular Polarized LH Flat Patch Antennas- looks interesting- I take it that the 'LH' means it is indeed Left Hand circularly polarized as it doesn't confirm on that page Correct, LH = Left-handed- very tempting if it is..this is a directional circularly polarized patch (non omini/cloverleaf or skew planar) ? Correct.Any estimation on what kind of range this could provide? I could do the math or guess, but best to test. If PVFlyers results are any indication (he is using LH Helical's) the results will be better than the 14db TPLink, with a smaller antenna.

At this stage thinking of just modding 1 of the ports on the repeater for now with the ufl to RP-SMA connector (leaving the other stock antenna in the repeater as it is for close in diveristy)- and having swappable plug n play' antennas for that one port for different applications - not modding the p2v camera/vtx antennas at this stage...Sounds good, just remember to have an antenna attached to the port before turning the repeater on.

I have the 14 dbi tp link linear patch antenna which is huge (not sure how to mount to a tripod let alone the repeater)- That's a good antenna, yes it is huge. Some are taping / velcroing it to the front of the repeater. Others are using gopro mount and taping the repeater to the back of the pad it is normally attached to (better solution). Of course you could separate it and mount it to a tripod.and perhaps a 5 or 9 dbi linear whip for closer in ops and potentially this 8 dBi Circular Polarized LH Flat Patch Antenna you posted..and may likely experiment with the 1W argtek amplifier and 6dbi attenuator mentioned earlier between the repeater's modded RP-SMA connector, attenuator and antenna.. Lots of confusion, the Argtek is a repeater, you use it instead of the stock repeater not with it.just to be clear of the order- do I fist connect the amplifier to the modded RP-SMA connector on the repeater, then add the attenuator and then the antenna on top of the attenuator or does it go in another sequence? If you use an amplifier (not a repeater like the Argtek, but an actual amplifier / booster, like a Sunhans, you would go from the RP-SMA connector on the stock repeater to the attenuator then to the amplifier / booster then an antenna on the other side of the amp / booster.

Someone on another post said just adding the one 14dbi tp link patch has created 3300ft in range alone (no other mods to repeater or p2v vtx/camera)Yes that is a good antenna, however at 2000 to 2500 feet I needed to fly sideways to go over 3000...adding an amplifier will possibly add a lot more? Will give a little more, but amplification is not as important or produce results like antennas (on both sides).I also heard the stock TX 5.8GHz antenna's range is around 3300ft- Two days ago I went over 2 miles with the stock TX, But I have also lost connection at 1.1 miles (see: viewtopic.php?f=7&t=6446 so if I start exceeding that, then I'll consider upgrading that antenna, probably to a higher gain whip than a narrower radiation patch..

ps- the attenuator ebay link you suggested http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... OC:US:3160 is down for the chinese new year..found this instead- will this work too? http://www.ebay.com/itm/RF-Coaxial-Atte ... 1252558899 Yes, that will work.

edit: what about this sequence of parts if adding the amplifier in this order- first make the ufl to male rp sma mod/cable on the repeater- then attach the argtek amplifier (with a rp sma female to male adapter which I already have)- from amplifier to attentuator, I will need a rp sma female to sma female adapter- http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=432 then add the 6db attenuator (connecting male sma end to aforementioned adapter) and then I'll need a sma male to rp sma female adapter like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMA-Male-To-RP- ... 1e7df38cde and then I can finally attach my antenna of choice via it rp sma female connector to the last adapter.. (phew).. does this right to you- pretty compicated and lots of research- just hope th sis right..?

by the way- for everyone keeping their stock repeater- someone else in another post suggested simply keeping the stock repeater plugged into a portable USB charger to maximize range as range is known to drop as the repeater's charge drops- ordered this portable USB charging pack (in white of course) for only $5.99 shipped to do this- http://www.ebay.com/itm/171187642605 - will this be necessary with an amplifier in the mix on the repeater?

Gratefully,

Justin

thanks again buddy- wow I was totally confused then- I originally purchased the argtek for boosting my Frsky 2.4Ghz RC TX control range -and still haven't got round to doing that yet.. I originally purchased it from rangevideo as they were getting 40km and more flying fixed wing fpv aircraft with this device boosting the 2.4Ghz range.. it is sold as an 'amplifier' for boosting the signal transmitted from the FrSky module which confused me- so it won't act to amplify the incoming received signal going into the repeater equally? http://old.rangevideo.com/index.php?mai ... ts_id=245.. for fun- here's a video of this amplifier.frsky combo flying 40 km- https://vimeo.com/23705882 - not sure what you mean by how this instead could act as a replacement repeater, how that would be set up and what if any range improvements it will create..?

if this is the case then and especially as you think amplifying the received signal only makes a negligible difference in range- I'll stick with the above, minus adding the amplifier- but am on the trigger for the LHCP patch antenna purely for smaller in size for better range- seems like a win- win..

I have ordered the TP link 8dbi whip also

regarding 'flying sideways'- did you know when to start flying sideways when you first started losing video signal and if so is there a specific approach to successfully doing that to add the range? ie. can you you yaw the p2v at that distance and the wifi video signal will drop and come back again as the sides of the p2v face away from you (front and back towards you) and towards you (sides towards you) respectively?

Sorry, my bad, I had just come from another thread where the topic was the ARGtek Docooler repeater. I take it back, the ARGtek at your link is in fact an amplifier.

Exactly, when video begins to drop, yaw so that one side is pointing back at you and you can continue to fly further (of course as soon as you yaw again you will lose video.
 
Just to finish my thought, the amplifier will make some difference, just not as much as a better antenna. The real gains from the amplifier could come if you also amplifier the P2V. The weak link is the video coming from the P2V, there is only so much that can be done by amplifying the repeater alone.
 
themosttoys said:
Sorry, my bad, I had just come from another thread where the topic was the ARGtek Docooler repeater. I take it back, the ARGtek at your link is in fact an amplifier.

Exactly, when video begins to drop, yaw so that one side is pointing back at you and you can continue to fly further (of course as soon as you yaw again you will lose video.

thanks again - so with the complexity of the added parts and extra cost you for little gain don't really think it's worth adding the argtek as an amplifier added to (not replacing) my stock repeater then even now you confirm it will work that way and not as a replacement repeater..? the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna will probably exceed any gains by adding the argtek amplifier?

If I were to use the argtek device as an amplifier- would the order and sequence of those specific parts I described above still work? (ie. this again:

first make the ufl to male rp sma mod/cable on the repeater- then attach the argtek amplifier (with a rp sma female to male adapter which I already have)- from amplifier to attentuator, I will need a rp sma female to sma female adapter- http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=432 then add the 6db attenuator (connecting male sma end to aforementioned adapter) and then I'll need a sma male to rp sma female adapter like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMA-Male-To-RP- ... 1e7df38cde and then I can finally attach my antenna of choice via it rp sma female connector to the last adapter..

I think keeping the stock repeater plugged into a portable USB charger to maximize range (as range is known to drop as the repeater's charge drops) will be a simple added bonus either way..
 
theSelf said:
thanks again - so with the complexity of the added parts and extra cost you for little gain don't really think it's worth adding the argtek as an amplifier added to (not replacing) my stock repeater then even now you confirm it will work that way and not as a replacement repeater..? Adding the amplifier (to the stock repeater) will work. Since you have it, you may as well give it a try. In my experience it will make minimal improvements, but maybe it will work better for you.the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna will probably exceed any gains by adding the argtek amplifier? If the antenna works as suspected (I've not actually tried that antenna, so only going on specs), the antenna will be a greater improvement than the amplifier.

If I were to use the argtek device as an amplifier- would the order and sequence of those specific parts I described above still work? (ie. this again:

first make the ufl to male rp sma mod/cable on the repeater- then attach the argtek amplifier (with a rp sma female to male adapter which I already have)- from amplifier to attentuator, I will need a rp sma female to sma female adapter- http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=432 then add the 6db attenuator (connecting male sma end to aforementioned adapter) and then I'll need a sma male to rp sma female adapter like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMA-Male-To-RP- ... 1e7df38cde and then I can finally attach my antenna of choice via it rp sma female connector to the last adapter..
The order is Stock repeater to attenuator to amplifier to antenna.
If you get a u.fl to SMA cable you could then go SMA -> attenuator -> SMA to RP-SMA converter -> amplifier -> antenna.
Otherwise, you will need an extra adapter : u.fl to RP-SMA -> RP-SMA to SMA converter -> attenuator -> SMA to RP-SMA converter -> amplifier -> antenna.


I think keeping the stock repeater plugged into a portable USB charger to maximize range (as range is known to drop as the repeater's charge drops) will be a simple added bonus either way..Will not hurt.
 
themosttoys said:
theSelf said:
thanks again - so with the complexity of the added parts and extra cost you for little gain don't really think it's worth adding the argtek as an amplifier added to (not replacing) my stock repeater then even now you confirm it will work that way and not as a replacement repeater..? Adding the amplifier (to the stock repeater) will work. Since you have it, you may as well give it a try. In my experience it will make minimal improvements, but maybe it will work better for you.the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna will probably exceed any gains by adding the argtek amplifier? If the antenna works as suspected (I've not actually tried that antenna, so only going on specs), the antenna will be a greater improvement than the amplifier.

If I were to use the argtek device as an amplifier- would the order and sequence of those specific parts I described above still work? (ie. this again:

first make the ufl to male rp sma mod/cable on the repeater- then attach the argtek amplifier (with a rp sma female to male adapter which I already have)- from amplifier to attentuator, I will need a rp sma female to sma female adapter- http://www.readymaderc.com/store/index. ... cts_id=432 then add the 6db attenuator (connecting male sma end to aforementioned adapter) and then I'll need a sma male to rp sma female adapter like this http://www.ebay.com/itm/SMA-Male-To-RP- ... 1e7df38cde and then I can finally attach my antenna of choice via it rp sma female connector to the last adapter..
The order is Stock repeater to attenuator to amplifier to antenna.
If you get a u.fl to SMA cable you could then go SMA -> attenuator -> SMA to RP-SMA converter -> amplifier -> antenna.
Otherwise, you will need an extra adapter : u.fl to RP-SMA -> RP-SMA to SMA converter -> attenuator -> SMA to RP-SMA converter -> amplifier -> antenna.


I think keeping the stock repeater plugged into a portable USB charger to maximize range (as range is known to drop as the repeater's charge drops) will be a simple added bonus either way..Will not hurt.

thank you- you have been very helpful- grateful for your responses- I'll give it some thought- if I do any further mods, if what you say about the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna is true- that may seem like the more attractive option over the more complicated amplifier/adapters/attenuator option for possibly less gain and would probably get the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna first and only after that maybe experiment with the argetek amplifier etc..additionaly since the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna is circularly polarized does that also mean it will be less likely to have to fly 'sideways' beyond a certain distance?
 
theSelf said:
thank you- you have been very helpful- grateful for your responses- I'll give it some thought- if I do any further mods, if what you say about the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna is true- that may seem like the more attractive option over the more complicated amplifier/adapters/attenuator option for possibly less gain and would probably get the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna first and only after that maybe experiment with the argetek amplifier etc..additionaly since the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna is circularly polarized does that also mean it will be less likely to have to fly 'sideways' beyond a certain distance?

Good question (more range before fly sideways). The only other person I've seen attempt anything like this is PVFlyer and he is seeing fantastic results using home made LHCP helicals (of course he is also using a professional grade MIMO repeater). The patch antenna will not be as good as the helicals, but it is a similar concept.
 
themosttoys said:
theSelf said:
thank you- you have been very helpful- grateful for your responses- I'll give it some thought- if I do any further mods, if what you say about the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna is true- that may seem like the more attractive option over the more complicated amplifier/adapters/attenuator option for possibly less gain and would probably get the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna first and only after that maybe experiment with the argetek amplifier etc..additionaly since the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna is circularly polarized does that also mean it will be less likely to have to fly 'sideways' beyond a certain distance?

Great- so the patch will still be a good compromise without the added expense and time of getting an expensive helical and having to add a skew planar (extra weight, especially with an on-board amp) on the p2v vtx (as they only come in RHCP options so both would have to be added since the stock p2v vtx antennas are LHCP)...the LHCP patch will be the way to go for me after experimenting with the 14dbi tp link linear patch..
 
guys reading all this it confuse me, gains, polarization, db, hard to asimilate, can you tell me if this is posible

replace the stock repeater with Docooler ARGtek Wireless, this have 3 antennas, take the off, and put 3 new antenas on the argtek repeater.

1.- 2.4GHz 9.5dBic 5 Turn RHCP Helical Antenna
2.- pl link onmi direccional antenna in the middle
3.- 2.4GHz 9.5dBic 5 Turn RHCP Helical Antenna

all mount on a tripod...

on the pv2 camara antenna use only one

2.- 2.4 GHz Cloverleaf Whip Antenna (RHCP) Straight point perpendicular to the groung.

what do you think, what i amnot seeing? can this work? what do i have to add?

thank for advanced-
 
oukenfold said:
guys reading all this it confuse me, gains, polarization, db, hard to asimilate, can you tell me if this is posible

replace the stock repeater with Docooler ARGtek Wireless, this have 3 antennas, take the off, and put 3 new antenas on the argtek repeater.

1.- 2.4GHz 9.5dBic 5 Turn RHCP Helical Antenna
2.- pl link onmi direccional antenna in the middle
3.- 2.4GHz 9.5dBic 5 Turn RHCP Helical Antenna

all mount on a tripod...

on the pv2 camara antenna use only one

2.- 2.4 GHz Cloverleaf Whip Antenna (RHCP) Straight point perpendicular to the groung.

what do you think, what i amnot seeing? can this work? what do i have to add?

thank for advanced-

Yes, that will work well. Only suggestion I'd make (and it is only suggestion, not requirement).
Rather than the cloverleaf, I'd go with a Skew planar or a fan. Cloverleaf are good for TX but not as good for RX (the camera is TX & RX). Also, Cloverleaf has a little less drag, but that is meaningless in our situation.

Sent from my Note 3 using Tapatalk 4
 
ok themosstoy thank for your time to asnwer.

get in your suggestion, there 2 antennas

1.- 2.4 GHz Skew-Planar Wheel Whip Antenna (RHCP) Straight (IBCrazy)
2,. 2.4 GHz Skew-Planar Wheel Whip Antenna (RHCP) Right Angle

wich one will be the best, and telling you mt setup do you think i ca get 1.5 km? open area of fpv?
 
oukenfold said:
ok themosstoy thank for your time to asnwer.

get in your suggestion, there 2 antennas

1.- 2.4 GHz Skew-Planar Wheel Whip Antenna (RHCP) Straight (IBCrazy)
2,. 2.4 GHz Skew-Planar Wheel Whip Antenna (RHCP) Right Angle

wich one will be the best, and telling you mt setup do you think i ca get 1.5 km? open area of fpv?

Either will work fine, I go with straight and if needed simply use a 90 degree connector.

With that setup, in an open area, 3km can be achieved (I did 3.2km with less.) Just be sure the SP is unobstructed by the P2v. I suspend it below the landing gear, it's not convenient and in an emergency landing the SP will be damaged, but it performs well.
 
themosttoys said:
oukenfold said:
ok themosstoy thank for your time to asnwer.

get in your suggestion, there 2 antennas

1.- 2.4 GHz Skew-Planar Wheel Whip Antenna (RHCP) Straight (IBCrazy)
2,. 2.4 GHz Skew-Planar Wheel Whip Antenna (RHCP) Right Angle

wich one will be the best, and telling you mt setup do you think i ca get 1.5 km? open area of fpv?

Either will work fine, I go with straight and if needed simply use a 90 degree connector.

With that setup, in an open area, 3km can be achieved (I did 3.2km with less.) Just be sure the SP is unobstructed by the P2v. I suspend it below the landing gear, it's not convenient and in an emergency landing the SP will be damaged, but it performs well.

thanks men,

whats your set up? that you get 3.2, ?
 
oukenfold said:
thanks men,

whats your set up? that you get 3.2, ?

Circular Wireless SPW24 Skew Planar on the P2V (camera), mounted under the landing gear.
Circular wireless HELIAXIAL24 attached to the stock repeater.

Full disclosure:
1) My stock repeater and camera wifi test out to 126mw (others are seeing 79mw and the published spec is 50mw)
2) This test was done in wide open farm land (not a tree in sight).
 
themosttoys said:
theSelf said:
thank you- you have been very helpful- grateful for your responses- I'll give it some thought- if I do any further mods, if what you say about the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna is true- that may seem like the more attractive option over the more complicated amplifier/adapters/attenuator option for possibly less gain and would probably get the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna first and only after that maybe experiment with the argetek amplifier etc..additionaly since the LHCP 2.4ghz patch antenna is circularly polarized does that also mean it will be less likely to have to fly 'sideways' beyond a certain distance?

Good question (more range before fly sideways). The only other person I've seen attempt anything like this is PVFlyer and he is seeing fantastic results using home made LHCP helicals (of course he is also using a professional grade MIMO repeater). The patch antenna will not be as good as the helicals, but it is a similar concept.

hi thermosttoys- just a quick question before I pull the trigger on the 8 dBi (LHCP) patch directional antenna you suggested http://www.l-com.com/wireless-antenna-2 ... h-antennas - you said this would probably out do the range of my tp link 14 dbi linearly polarized patch antenna http://www.amazon.com/TP-LINK-TL-ANT241 ... B003CFATOM because of being LHCP it would be properly matched to the LHCP of the p2v camera/vtx's antennas- just confirming you still think this is true because even though the tp link is mis matched (linear to circular)- you said the drop would be 3dbi- so effectively it would still be 11DBi- that's still 3dbi more than the 8dbi (LHCP) patch directional antenna- could you share briefly why you think the LHCP patch will likely still out do the higher gain linear patch providing more video range? thank you
 

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