Building and Testing GSM Antennas: A Journey with Monopole and Yagi Designs
This project explores the construction and performance testing of GSM antennas, specifically comparing monopole and Yagi designs. The monopole antenna achieved a signal strength of -80 dBm, while the Yagi antenna exceeded expectations with a strength of 70 dBm, proving to be superior to the stock antenna. The experience involved sourcing materials from Sim Lim Tower and learning crucial skills such as soldering and circuit design. Although challenges with coding and the level shifter using the Max232 IC arose, the project provided invaluable insights into GSM technology and data transmission techniques.
Building and Testing GSM Antennas: A Journey with Monopole and Yagi Designs
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Presentation Transcript
Monopole • Yagi GSM antenna
Monopole antenna’s signal strength was -80dbm • Yagi antenna’s signal strength was 70dbm • Better than the stock GSM antenna Functionality
Learnt how to construct a GSM antenna • Learnt how to solder • Learnt what materials go into a GSM antenna and what components to buy (or not to buy) Learning points
Interesting experience • Had to go to Sim Lim Tower multiple times to get the correct materials, effort was not wasted • Surprised that our Yagi antenna worked so well even though we did not use a copper base Reflections
Does not work (yet) • Lacks the code required for the GSM antenna to interpret the commands sent via the Arduino board • Transmitting signals works Level shifter
How to interpret datasheets • How to construct the level shifter using the Max232 IC • How to use a CRO to monitor data transmission Learning points
Disappointed it did not work • Need more time to figure out the code • Will be putting some extra time during holidays to make it work Reflections
Q&A Thanks!
