I think it would be wise to learn something about 2.4ghz wave propagation
and the Fresnel effect before you make that statement. If you just want a
couple of hundred yards range deck mounting is fine but for 2 miles plus you
need to be UP.

By far the best solution is a waterproof wifi bridge at the masthead
connected by Ethernet with POE to a hub. Long range because there is
minimal coax loss and a wide Fresnel zone.

--
Glenn Ashmore

I'm building a 45' cutter in strip/composite. Watch my progress (or lack
there of) at: http://www.rutuonline.com
Shameless Commercial Division: http://www.spade-anchor-us.com

"Wilbur Hubbard" wrote in message
anews.com...

"Bob Crantz" wrote in message
...

"Wayne.B" wrote in message
...


The potential problem is
the long run of cable up the mast which will create a lot of signal
loss even with the very best LMR400 cable.

That cable has a loss of about 6 dB/100 ft at WiFi frequencies. A
colinear antenna can have gain way in excess of the loss and maintain an
isotropic pattern in the horizontal plane. Figure 50' of cable with 3 dB
of loss added to a 9 dB gain antenna is a net gain of 6 dB. It could work
out quite well. One has to consider the entire system, not just isolated
elements. This is a much cheaper and more reliable solution than an
active bridge up on the mast head.

Glory!


I have personal experience with respect to this topic. Putting a wi-fi
antenna at the masthead is the WRONG thing to do. You don't want it high
up. You want it low down. It gets better reception low. The signals seem
to be stronger low. Mount a good amplified antenna at deck level for the
best reception. No need to worry about long lengths of co-ax at all.

Here's a good antenna that works well and is priced reasonably.
http://www.radiolabs.com/products/wi...ne-antenna.php

Wilbur Hubbard