I researched recommended web sites and found other sites with information about “How to create a cantenna.”  I followed instructions and was able to create my own blog with the WordPress.com site.  I created links to sites on my blog and those recommended links.  I don’t have a video camera as I would have liked to create a video of the process.  I used my digital camera to make things happen, I supplied the tools and the can to make the project possible.  

After reviewing web sites with information on how to build a cantenna. I needed a can, so I went to the supermarket and started the search.  I read on one web site that results would vary and that some cans work better than others.  Some examples ranged from a pop can to Pringles and coffee cans. I decided the best can to start with would be a juice can.  I wanted a can that was sturdier than a Pringles can.  One that was larger than a soup can but not as bulky as a coffee can.  A  can that already proved to be effective in boosting the wi-fi connections.  Taking all these factors into consideration, I choose the standard juice can.

Preparation

I have prepped my can by removing contents, labels and any dabri.  I originally remove the lid of the can with a can opener and used a small hammer to flatten out the metal snag that was on the inside of the rim to prevent any injury when assembling the can.  The next thing on my schedule is to obtain a radiator and some paint.

Construction

Marking the center point of the can with the calculations from the http://support.jefatech.com/cantenna/ site, I was able to calculate the location of where to drill the hole in my can.  By entering the diameter of your can 7″ x 4-1/8″ and press convert the number for a 3/4″ wave guide.  The calculation gives you the exact location of where to drill your hole. My center point was at 1-5/8″ from base of can.  The process of drilling the hole for the radiator was a delicate one.  I used all the tools that I had available to me, I used a punch, a drill, and a tape measure to mark the position of the drilling point.  I took half inch measurements from the center point in four directions and used a washer from the radiator as a template.  With a red sharpie marked the diameter to make an accurate center circle. 

Can Info

 I come to that conclusion that a longer and wider can’s will produce maximum results.  The length and width (7” x 4-1/8″) are important to the function of the cantenna.  The longer and wider cans seem to get the best results of which should fall somewhere in the 80’s signal strength.  I was actually able to hone in on 77 signal.

 History of cantenna and atenna, a few years ago a techie developed a way to create an external antenna from a Pringles can and was able to boost his external wireless connection.  It was a hit with the technical world and helped get the cantenna enthusiasts started.  Wireless signals are constantly competing with other electromagnetic waves.  By creating a guideline wave length, you are able to connect to surrounding signals or increase your signal beyond your standard available range.

Antennas receive and transcieve electromagnetic waves and are consider transducers.  These electromagnetic waves are converted into electrical signals by the antenna.  James Clerk Maxwell was the first to claim his theory of electromagnetic waves it was subsequently confirmed by Heinrich Hertz.  Maxwell concluded the speed of EM waves coincide with the speed of light and is therefore an electromagnetic wave. Antennas were used by early scientist like Thomas Edison and Heinrich Hertz and with his equation Maxwell was able to prove that electromagnetic waves did exist.  In summary an oscillating electric field starts a magnetic field. It creates an oscillating electric field the process of these oscillating fields form the electromagnetic wave. 

here is are two graphs indicating what a electromagnetic field might above and below the oscillating emf.

Signal Strength

My final signal strength of the AP with a non-directional antenna is ___77- at around __300 - feet.

Solo Style

I have learned that wireless systems are popular because they are easy to implement.  With all of the popularity the industry has exploded with all kinds of phones and wireless devices.  With all of those signals competeing for range, building a wave guide cantenna is one way to increase your signal strength and improve your construction skills.  I came to the conclusion that the future of wireless lies in the devices that will boost your signal.  I really enjoyed this project and hope to continue thinkering around with wifi booster in the future.  (Heck it would be nice to make a kit and sell it to do it your selfer’s)

Here is a link to a Web site that talks about what a cantenna can do.  http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-make-a-cantenna-an-antenna-made-from-a-can-185776/

Here are some recommended links:

 http://support.jefatech.com/cantenna/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KN_1oe3z7EQ

http://www.turnpoint.net/wireless/cantennahowto.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electromagnetic_wave

 http://www.wonderhowto.com/how-to/video/how-to-make-a-cantenna-an-antenna-made-from-a-can-185776/

http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tin_Can_Antenna_Design.jpg

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antenna_%28electronics%29