A bit off topic but...
 

Hey all,

I'd have posted this somewhere else but couldn't find a group more suited.
I've just got run-of-the-mill 2.45ghz bluetooth dongle and frustrated with
its range ripped off its cover to find a wonderfully custom pcb inside.
Anyways, theres a small surface mount component inside labelled "ANT1",
reading a resistance of practically nil and ditto for capacitance. I'm
assuming it to be the antenna. Anybody know of a way I could stick a
transistor on it or something to boost the range (I'm not all too
experienced with radio I'm afraid so that might sound stupid) - or just peel
it off and replace it with a few peices of wire or something.

Sorry for sounding stupid and thanks in advance,

Josh

No, there's nothing simple that someone not very experienced can do to
extend the range. Your best bet is to try a physically bigger dongle
that's likely to have a better antenna.

Roy Lewallen, W7EL

Joshua Leahy wrote:
Hey all,

I'd have posted this somewhere else but couldn't find a group more suited.
I've just got run-of-the-mill 2.45ghz bluetooth dongle and frustrated with
its range ripped off its cover to find a wonderfully custom pcb inside.
Anyways, theres a small surface mount component inside labelled "ANT1",
reading a resistance of practically nil and ditto for capacitance. I'm
assuming it to be the antenna. Anybody know of a way I could stick a
transistor on it or something to boost the range (I'm not all too
experienced with radio I'm afraid so that might sound stupid) - or just peel
it off and replace it with a few peices of wire or something.

Sorry for sounding stupid and thanks in advance,

Josh