How to get Wifi in the woods - DIY Solar Internet Station

Great Wi-Fi coverage outdoors can seem impossible. See how I fixed this problem simple DIY Solar Wi-Fi Station. These tips can also help teahc you how to get the best Wi-Fi coverage in your house too, I included a mini lesson on Range Extenders vs Mesh and what's best. These work very well when you are living off-grid/disconnected in a rural setting where cell coverage is poor or non-existent.
Battery & Power:
Li Time Battery: amzn.to/44xxZF3
Solar Controller: amzn.to/3pSIDqQ
Battery Box: amzn.to/43sGEXX
Solar Panel: amzn.to/44wKalE
Network:
TP Link Outdoor Access Point: amzn.to/3PXOYvS
Linovision 12V Network Switch: amzn.to/44RdUtL
Small Parts:
Bulkhead Connector: amzn.to/3XXmdBm
Project Box: amzn.to/3OkZUCw
Ferrule Kit: amzn.to/3q4ibL1
Duct Seal: amzn.to/3OnW3DJ
As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases
Technical Info:
Wire sizing must match the power flowing through the system. This is determined by the solar panel, battery, load, etc. Mesh AP does have limitations that vary between manufacturer. Some have smaller limits. I chose a 100AH battery so that I could run for weeks without sun, which sometimes happens. You can use a smaller battery or a larger panel, this was just a simple design that has been working perfectly now for over a month. I am very pleased!
This video, description and comments contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission. This helps support the channel and allows us to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for the support
Disclaimer:Due to factors beyond the control of Silver Cymbal, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. Silver Cymbal assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. Silver Cymbal recommends safe practices when working on machines and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of Silver Cymbal, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not Silver Cymbal.

[@SilverCymbal]

Hope you found this video interesting. *All parts are in the description* Let me know what I could have done differently WHY? I could barely make phone calls outdoors & my kids and I like having music & often use the web even outdoor to check weather, etc. I also have a weather station that needs Wi-Fi (more on that in a future video) - There are some other technical details in the description since I know my fellow IT nuts will jump all over some of my statements.

[@marsdenbalaska3]

Please LMK if you know where I can dump those at my man? I subscribe on fire tv stick with another email so I am a subscriber my man! 💗 The Channel BRW😅

[@jimb8601]

Nice setup. I’d want to have that solar panel strapped down securely in the event of high winds. I’d also opt to put some kind of base under it such as pavers. And to finish it off I’d anchor the structure so it can’t blow over. I’m absolutely amazed at your versatility in figuring these things out and appreciate you sharing this info with everyone.

[@emailausdrucker]

Loved the video!!! Thank you. I am worried for the battery when we get cold weather again. These batteries don't like cold/freezing weather and will go defective. But I assume you won't need wifi in the winter. 😂

[@sociopathmercenary]

Cool video! I use a Google mesh system and have four access points. One is in the garage and the others are all near outside walls. I find that I can get good Wi-Fi signal almost 100 yards from my house. This is perfectly adequate for my uses where I do have a few security cameras outside... But we also have cellular towers nearby and no data limit which allows me to avoid more extreme measures like yours

[@sociopathmercenary]

If I was going to build a remote repeater, I think you'd benefit from putting it on one of those metal garden carts. Then it's actually completely mobile

[@157-40_T]

I recommend you use gravel or concrete pad vs bare ground to preserve the wood longer.

[@thisballcaplife9696]

Was going to say the same thing but he did say he was going to move it around. I’m sure we will see a follow up in a couple months.

[@jerbear7952]

Where is your sense of adventure.

[@WayneWisner]

Exactly my 1st thought too. The shed is going to get a lot of moisture coming up from the bare ground under it. Not only hurting the wooden shed but rusting any exposed electoral connections. Also, having the solar panel just hanging off the 3 screws might be a problem. A strong gust of wind could lift it off of there. Actually, the whole shed might be susceptible to wind unless it's bolted to a heavy base.

[@157-40_T]

@@jerbear7952 we had a storm last year and blew over 35+ 75’ tall + Pine Trees so that shed would last about 5 minutes here during any of our Pacific NW typical storms. Everything needs to be anchored down to concrete.

[@ronb6182]

Bare ground is better. For grounding.73

[@aronmedders4353]

Great set up! One point, always connect the charge controller to the battery before connecting the solar panel. If the panel is pumping power into the controller and it doesn't have anywhere to go, it could burn up the controller.

[@erikjohnson960]

Yeah, I kinda cringed when he did that, but it in the end all was well. :)

[@meh8099]

Put a outdoor light switch between the controller and the panel. Normally I just glue it in place behind the panel next to the controller but in this case it's better to just put that switch inside the little shed. It's handy to have, whenever you need to reattach the battery, just flip the switch. In my case, it was a portable setup so it made sense :)

[@gjheydon]

If you are using home assistant I would add a esp32 and a shunt type device to monitor the batter level and usage. You should even be able to see how much solar is going into the battery. Then you can monitor the level and make sure the battery is large enough. Also should be able to keep an eye on the battery health as well.

[@sygad1]

you could also use bluetooth presence detection to turn the wifi off and on depending if any devices are close enough to it, this should preserve the battery for longer

[@bkxc]

I’ve been kicking around this idea in my head for my off grid property so I can do more “live” game camera stuff. I think I’ll need a bit more power if I want to do continuous live streaming, but this gives me a pretty good framework. Thanks for showing it off!

[@stevenhu202]

It's always weird when 2 different KZbinrs come together. Like MTB and lawn and garden. Haha. Anyone else watch both?

[@GoonyMclinux]

There is pretty powerful routers that don't use alot of power, I have a similar setup with a smaller battery and smaller solar panel and it works great. A big hoss streaming setup wouldn't be a half bad idea.

[@danieli708]

@@GoonyMclinux Which router you recommend?

[@GoonyMclinux]

@@danieli708 whatever you can afford that can use openwrt, get something that has removable antennas so you can mount them wherever you want. I used one with non removable antennas (TP-LINK ac-1750) and modded my antennas for a little more gain. It only pulls 1.5 amps at 12 volt so a smaller battery works well with it. You don't need openwrt unless you want to use it as a repeater or range extender.

[@SouthWestIron]

what router are you referring to? @@GoonyMclinux

[@silveragnes8256]

Excellent video. I did similar project to run Starlink over DC instead of AC. That switch is a very interesting solution. I used 12v - 56v step up converter combined with a POE injector to do the same ($40 for both). Overall your solution seems very cost effective. I can't believe how cheap 100ah batteries are getting - mine are over 2x the price. From 'IT nut' perspective, TP Link? I'm going Ubiquiti. :).

[@willfixthingsfordonuts]

Plus you could do Ubi with native 24v and not need any conversion, a decent controller and a higher voltage solar panel. Ubiquiti rocks.

[@Deveak]

Sometimes pricey but your videos always have solutions for rural home owners like me in a nice neat package. Do want to point out, the mini version of that battery your using does NOT have low temperature cut off. Lifepo4 can discharge down to -4 but under 32 degrees a charge can damage the battery. I have heard low C rates won’t hurt it though so you might be okay with that 50 watt panel. That’s under the c/20 rate that’s “safe.” You might want to consider a external low temp cut off or low volt heater pad on a dc thermostat. You could direct solar power the heating pads with a cheap 24/12 buck converter and a larger panel so it starts gently warming the battery as soon as the sun is up.

[@waderemington817]

This is all Greek to me. Thank you SO MUCH for making this all so comprehensive, concise & especially clean the way you’ve done!

[@ComradeStiv]

I have no need for this (atm) but your no-nonsense no-filler info-packed style hooks me every time lol. You got these HOWTO vids down to an art, my man. Respect.

[@claudenormandeau9211]

I had to assemble a TP-LINK system as well that ended up being very complicated to not only set up but to maintain. At 64 and retired I had time to do this but even my technologically advanced son told me the system was to complicated for most people to understand. So what I am saying is when your away and the system goes down the area will not be covered by wifi. With my system when the power goes out or flickers on and off it causes issues that many people that don't have the knowledge and patience will not want to struggle trying to figure out. Not knowing your property layout but understanding wifi signals it might have added even more distance and signal strength by elevating your antenna. I all ways really enjoy your very informative videos thank you for making them.

[@SilverCymbal]

What I like a lot about TPLink is once you get their interface and if you use their Omada devices it's really easy. I have been sup[er delayed doing a full network tour here to show my routers, wifi, etc. I wanted to get this project done first since is a critical part of my coverage. I hope to show the Omada system and devices in a lot more detail within the next month.

[@Didgeridoo42]

Boy do I love watching your videos! I learn something new every time. Thank you for all the fantastic, non-clickbait videos.

[@leifhietala8074]

To get the most bang for your buck, I can't help but notice that the little shed is underutilized. You could: 1 - Build it taller and add at least a birdhouse to one side. But just one, unless you make it about 30' high and put up gourds for purple martins. 2 - Build a shed roof (one-sided) instead of gable, with the whole surface facing the sun for more solar panel if needed 3 - If you go taller, tuck the electronic bits up out of the way, and place long-handled tools in the bottom 4 - More solar panel + more storage = opportunity to add small, low-wattage landscape lighting if desired, or motion-activated. I have some solar motion lights, they are very convenient. If heat is an issue, you could install a heat block that conveys all the way to a heat sink on the outside of the shed, preferably on the shaded side of the shed. No need for a fan. DC-DC power converters are easy to come by.

[@daveclark6324]

Gotta love the free labor! 😆 Awesome solution to extend your Wi-Fi range 👍

[@grb2980363]

Thanks!

[@davidputt4638]

You should check out a system by Ubiquity. It can simply soooo much. They even have a solar system that can predict if there may be an outage due to the weather so you can take measures ahead of time. Pretty cool stuff.

[@davidwilliams1060]

2 in 1 - I may or may not need to extend WiFi but I can definitely use the solar information for my shed. I found the “what for?” comments funny but I appreciate that you’re presenting useful information that can be applied to other applications.

[@TheWolfster001]

Nice tip.. A buddy of mine spent well over $1,000.00 to extend only his wi-fi signals on his property and the range around that spot is like 50 to maybe 75 feet.. I'm gonna share this with him.. I see by what you did if you wanted to you could just plug into it with a ethernet cable and have a hardline connection.. Love it... Thank you for sharing.. You just earned my subscription..

[@omardude39]

What a fantastic documentation of this approach!! This was not only well planned and tidy in implementation, but the explanation and demonstration of all the kit and theory behind it was very well narrated and clear. Anyone could understand this. That's a great hallmark to have on a channel, you've got a new follower in me!

[@cousineddy811]

Would love to see a follow up video on how it performs after months being outside in the winter. Will the solar keep up?

[@kameljoe21]

Not likely. Those panels are quite tiny. What ever the energy draw is per hour which I heard him saw 16 watts at one time. Rounding up you need 500 watts of solar per day for 20 watts per hour all day long. This 500 watts needs an additional 25 or 50% to be safe. Which means you need 1kwh of power. A 12v 100ah battery is around 1.2kwh. You should have around 200 watts just to make the station a viable thing all year round. Might as well buy a 250 watt panel to be safe. This means that in just a short hour or 2 the battery will be charged and should never go dead. If you look for the battery that has an internal heater in it. This way it kick on if and when you start charging. Then summer time you can add a set of filtered and screened in fans to help keep the box cooler. If I was making this I would buy the panel first then build it based on that size. I would then also make sure that the panel is at the best overall angle and spaced several inches above the roof of the box. This way heat can be expelled with ease. I would then get a couple of sheets of 2 inch foam and then find the correct glue or contact cement and using a sheet of the wood siding and a sheet of osb on the inside build and make my own SIPs. This is small enough that it should be pretty easy. Also I would make sure the panel is a couple feet up off the ground to prevent tall grass to shading or anything else. Once the box is made you can set it all up really easy. Make sure you use the SIPs on the entire thing and caulk the inside and anything else to prevent even the tiniest gap. You can use computer type fans to vent using a simple 12v temp controller. ( amazon/ebay has them for like 10 bucks, I have used a number of them over the years ) Use a dryer vent cover to shield it from rain and then place a screen on the inside tightly sealed and then a box cavity several inches away from the wall to put in a small filter. I think you can find really nice 12x12 filters. Make sure you support the filter and a tight seal. You can then mount 1 or more fans to some plywood with the fans screwed to them. If you can see what I am talking about. I do not recall what the draw on those 12v temp controllers are. Yet they are super low. You can set up 1 fan with one and then another one with another temp controller setting them so that if the cabinet gets really hot you can turn on another set of fans. For example you might have 1 fan hooked up and then 3 hooked up for high temp things. You can read the spec sheets of the working temps for each unit that you put in it. You might find that they have pretty high working temps.

[@jabbajawz]

​@@kameljoe21You are overthinking things. I ran my whole wireless network off a 300wh solar power station hooked up to 100w solar panel for a year. Granted I had it inside, but it pulled a max of 20w each hour and fluctuated allow the way down to 4 or 5 watts. Even on cloudy days, the 100w panel was enough to keep the battery close to 100%. And the during the night the battery rarely went below 60%. If you just get a bigger battery, a smaller panel would work just fine as it's not drawing max wattage all the time.

[@kameljoe21]

@@jabbajawz I am not overthinking it. I give everything a chance to work and being safe is why equiment in the field that is solar works so well and has no problems. Yet people underestimate solar and their battery. With heat comes more power usage and heat also degrades electronics. As things age they use more power as well.

[@VillSid]

That regulating switch was the most interesting bit in this video. I would use similar setup to build a security cam system in remote location or add a lot PoE powered gear to a van/camper.

[@noahfigueroa3534]

Awesome video! Good job putting out a ton of info into a well edited package. This kind of content makes the world better!

[@George_us]

Your setup is great, especially with the solar. I personally don't like wireless (which can be easily jammed). I ran a 250-foot outdoor gray 120V 12 gauge electrical cable (feeding light bulb, outlet, switch for POE IP cameras & AP), along with a 250-foot Ethernet cable. I could repeat it two more times if I needed to go 750 feet.

[@Incognitus-Umbra]

really with what you are doing you will want to make sure your equipment is all grounded and that you run multi-mode fiber those two things will save you next time lightning hits in the area

[@tomad4051]

Seriously ‘militarily hardened’ 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@paulj9587]

Yeah I'm sure you're at serious threat for having your Wireless network jammed lol😂

[@inspiringbuilds]

Good tips, a lot of research went into this video. I agree, mesh has been the way to go. 👍

[@SilverCymbal]

I really appreciate that. Mesh is such a game changer, especially now that its affordable. I have had so many issues with old range extenders it's great to finally have a cheap alternative.

[@inspiringbuilds]

@@SilverCymbal Agreed 💯

[@jefftown604]

@@SilverCymbalwhen is the video on the mule going to be here

[@SilverCymbal]

@@jefftown604 Ah, very good question. Honestly I wish I hadn't bought it. In short Kawasaki isn't what they once were, they cheapened this in every way possible. Is it good? yes Is it the old Mule, no. I really hate to make video when I feel this way, as maybe I am too picky but I am pretty furious at Kawasaki for doing this to this legendary product. They are backtracking a bit now. If I could do it again I would probably get a Honda ATV or the old style Mule which they still sell, thoud dealers hate to sell them. Maybe I will do the video but I feel that it will waste folks time but maybe I can jut do the pros and cons but a lot of it is historical since I have had 6 mules in the past. Real problem is products today are NOT meant to last and its a bigger problem. Let me see what I can do. I feel bad not to show it. I just want it to be worth your time to watch.

[@kittygonzalez2827]

I loved the video, and I almost grasped the entire thing! Unfortunately, I’m one of those who totally freaks out and with electric and electronic hook ups! It stems from when I was a nurse with a coding patient, and they yelled clear while my leg tapped the metal bed frame when they zapped the patient! A very shocking situation, that’s kept me CLEAR of almost any power supply, Especially battery operated!

[@YeppersYT]

Super cool setup. When I found out about mesh networks, that's basically the only router type I recommend to people nowadays

[@SilverCymbal]

Thank you, yes Mesh is such a game changer and the tp-link stuff is cheap to buy and works awesome.

[@TheTravelerMan]

A timely video for me. This week I am having a Fixed Wireless modem installed with a mesh router system - that I chose because I want to expand my coverage around my property.

[@grb2980363]

Well done video. I'm familiar with solar and use the panels & controller to operate a 12V DC water pump out in our garden. Now I'm looking to do exactly what you have built to get a wi-fi camera signal from our kidding barn back to the house 400 feet away. Thanks for the wi-fi explanation.

[@mikkovirtanen2806]

Unless you really need/want a switch there are POE injectors running from 12v. And I have migrated to Ubiquiti network things, sure higher cost than TP-Link, but well worth the money. Meaning, installation setup and reliability are on another level. But if you are happy with TP-link, then go for it.

[@phhowe17]

RE POE injectors running from 12v - could you share some info on these? I've searched Amazon and mostly get POE spliters with a 12v output for non-POE devices.

[@mikkovirtanen2806]

@@phhowe17 search for Poe injector IEEE 802.3af 12v boost converter, or something like that. Hope it helps.

[@bmay8818]

Looks good, and a great idea! There are DC-DC converters available that can convert battery voltage into anything you want, so you could use standard equipment. Anyway, this is sweet!

[@Teknopottu]

This. Weird how many don't seem to use these boards. Never had any problems with my projects.

[@BruceMallett]

Careful sending current to an LiFePO4 battery in low temperatures (like we get here in NH during the winter). I bought one having low temp. cutoff (does LiTime?) and also added heat pads to the box with programmable temperature control switches.

[@bonsukan]

Awesome idea! A couple of comments. Do you plan to have your wifi station out during the winter months? I’m not sure what zone you’re in but if you do plan on keeping it out through the winter, you may want to beef up the station with insulation because once the temps drop to freezing it could impact the battery performance. Also, if you do get strong winds occasionally or frequently, you might want to consider anchor the station to the ground. Just my 2 cents.

[@BigSteve_Gaming187]

It's not a bad option. I'm not sure if a lot of snow congregates in your area, but I'm sure you plan to utilize a way to mount or ankor the shed in to prevent harsh weather, winds, & snow from toppling it over. Being next to trees wouldn't be a bad idea to utilize some form of plexiglass or clear protective cover over the cells to prevent tree branches, sap, and/or damage in general upon the panels. Other than consideration for those variables, looks pretty solid. Appreciate the idea.

[@mrmotofy]

Panels don't need protective covers. They're designed to BE outside and survive massive hail storms. Covering them will limit performance. Sometimes real world needs to rule over theoretical worlds

[@BigSteve_Gaming187]

@mrmotofy fair enough. Ive seen some that didn't fair too well even without hail.

[@MiniDevilDF]

@@mrmotofy With all due respect, you should definitely heed your own words. Hail is a massive issue for solar panels. On paper they're designed to be outside and survive hail storms, but in reality they are damaged by hail, falling branches, and even falling chestnuts quite easily.

[@mrmotofy]

@@MiniDevilDF They CAN be but rarely are.

[@firebird5029]

I really do appreciate this. I have 13 acres that I want to cover with Wi-Fi solar powered. Problem is is keep adding points for the internet. When I get back to work and start my bill to give you info on how it's going.

[@Ayrstone]

Nice explanation of Mesh vs. Boosters/Extenders!

[@stoffmeister7095]

This is absolutely brilliant, I always had in my mind that I need to dig down a cable, being mindful not to dig in those areas in the future. A few sheds spread around like yours saves me that trouble. Thank you!

[@turtlos]

You came up with nice solution! To make it even better, you could easily protect those exposed cables with wrap or similar stuff to prevent animals biting them, but I don't know how like it is that wild animals would eat those exposed cables.

[@ronb6182]

You said it doing things differently and they can be challenging as well. Thanks 73

[@N20Joe]

I love it! I tried the plug-in extenders and they work okay if you're still near a building but the main router is on the opposite side but it's a different network and you have to switch between that and the main, plus it won't work way out in a field. I love your full DC setup and eliminating the complexity of converting!

[@zubdub24]

Awesome project! Had me laughing with "enlisted some free labor"

[@kgt9535]

This a great idea bro...once that enclosure is setup to withstand weather anomalies and roving creatures better....you've got a potential patent on your hands.

[@jamessharier7529]

Love your how to videos, they are so informative and entertaining. Keep up the great work.

[@sashkashurik]

really cool setup! Have to admit, as many have stated, that 1) a heated/insulated battery or a low temp cutoff is a nice improvement 2) using concrete pads or tiles to improve ventilation (combined with some waterproofing at the base of the shed) is to consider. 3) A mesh network is a commercial evolution of a range extender. In a config using a single Access Point(AP) in the remote location, it is the same thing: both increase latency, reduce bandwidth, etc.at the edge of the WiFi network. In your case, there is no magic and no difference between a well built commercial solution and a a well designed mass market residential product. The magic happens when there are multiple Ethernet connected APs in a range of a single/multiple meshed APs: in theory, meshed IPs will choose the path of least congestion and latency (by switching between Eth connected APs, and even routing traffic between themselves) and dynamically adapt to changing network load. That is often not the case of a regular range extender that simply has no logic (and often no way to obtain sufficient information about traffic) to do such things.

[@harryfatcat]

Cool little shed! 😎I can't believe I randomly stumbled across this.

[@StephenWelch]

As always, very informative and great walk through. As I dream of living off rural land, these videos are great for me to think of future solutions to problems I don't have yet. I'll be very interested if you ever dabble in a self hosted LoRA network setup, for long range sensors/actuator kinda stuff.

[@Evan-lg1xp]

I love the networking videos! Your underground fiber video is what brought me to your channel a while back. Keep up the good work (:

[@Blakehx]

Looks awesome! My sister is always preaching to me about WiFi, cell networks, etc and health effects of radiation… idk if she’s right or just paranoid!🤔

[@Bennyboy-dog]

Nice idea. Thanks for letting me know about mesh AP's - I had heard of them but didn't get what they did. I do now! You could mount the Mesh AP inside the shed. I doubt the wood panelling would have affected the signal much.

[@markkempton4579]

This is a cool setup. I've toyed around with the idea of building a shed and using it as an office. This is a great idea vs running fiber like you showed before. I like the 12V switch. I had not though of these. I'm currently looking for a switch to provide PoE for a new AP I'm installing.

[@mrmotofy]

Fiber is better in the long run. A trencher can be rented for about $60-100 and take maybe 1hr for hundreds of feet. Then lay cable or conduit in and shovel fill it in. Wireless has lots of failure potential, fiber in the ground has about 1 way it can fail. We still use fiber cables from 50-60's

[@SpeedUpThatComputer]

I'm glad i found this video because i'm looking for ways to improve the wifi coverage in the campground i work for. The layout of it isn't very great for wifi especially with all the metal walls and roofs around and i need to keep wires to a minimum considering there's 16 POE cameras already on the property and the owner doesn't want anymore wires.

[@mrmotofy]

Start running fiber cables in conduit to strategic locations then branch out from there. The wireless especially in crowded areas starts to have problems difficult to pinpoint. Fiber will also allow much higher bandwidth upgrades as we progress

[@NeilPBrooks]

Very interesting build! Why not add a floor to the shed to keep out all that ground humidity? Also, please add a link to the PoE switch, curious what makes it special? Shouldn’t the charge controller be outputting a steady voltage?

[@earld1403]

POE is not directly mentioned in the BOM but the device he is using for POE is the Linovision 12V Network Switch listed in the Description.

[@dtrout]

Seems like a lot of work and expense to create outdoor WiFi signal. Cute little “shed” but I just don’t see the need for WiFi to extend that far..... phone calls will drop to voicemail but if I am outside I don’t really want to be checking my phone. I realize a lot of people put high value on tech capabilities but I just cannot see much purpose to this. There are remote control on/off switches that are designed for outdoor applications, so one could manually turn something on and off that’s outside.... does your robot lawn mower need a WiFi signal ?

[@Teknopottu]

​@@dtroutThey are dropping down internet services everywhere so in rural areas working connections could be live and death situations. They drove down 3G in Finland this summer and already had first problems at my home with sending internet messages. 4G does not always work here in backwoods. When they drive down 2G in couple of years, I need my LA-phones or get an internet phone with me in case of an emergency.

[@dtrout]

Satellite connectivity…. iphone 14 or 15 has this capability…. Or get a Garmin in-reach ? I have to use WiFi at home because Verizon has no signal here in our town ….. technically we are a city but really a small to mid size town. Verizon signal is far better at my remote cabin. Go figure.

[@HMNNO]

Thanks for making this! I have been racking my head to expand my wifi range

[@kenhall2411]

Great Video I have 20 Acres would love to have some outdoor camara this would be a good why to get internet signal around my property thanks for listing all the parts to

[@ronniepirtlejr2606]

Using lithium batteries outside during the winter time iwhen it drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or 0 degrees Celsius may not be a very good battery choice?

[@lens7859]

Your garage is beautiful! Good work!

[@SilverCymbal]

Thank you, its all coming along here. I love the spot but when you pay it for it with past older owners who let everything go. See what it looked like 10 months ago here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z2qWq3qtqsRoqK8

[@GeoFry3]

Nice build. Put it on some patio blocks to keep the bottom from rotting. If mesh doesn't work for you, direct bury fiber optic is considerably cheaper these days. The SFPs they plug into are easy enough to find cheaply in 300-500 meter ranges. If you are way out there, they come in kilometer ranges as well. You'll need a big trailer for the spool of fiber.

[@landonferguson7282]

You can use the load port on the solar charge controller to turn the output on and off. Like for instance if you wanted the access point to only run in the daytime to conserve power.

[@mattosborne1233]

I really like your videos, have watched dozens, and have bought products based on your recommendations. All of it's great stuff. But I thought I should caution you about a danger. It looks like you hook up the solar panel to the controller without having a battery on the controller. From what I've gathered on Will Prowse's channel, that can burn up and controller very quickly. I think you're supposed to hook the battery up first. Thank you for your priceless work.

[@reviewatrandom]

Big fan of the TP-Link outdoor access points, I've been using a TP-Link Omada AC1200 for about 2-3 years and might upgrade to this one next. Great way to have a WiFi signal - especially in areas with spotty cellular coverage.

[@MrRvalentin]

Great video ! Remembered the days when I did a similar project on a little mountain river and a mill to power a mini motor (read generator) that was powering a wifi router in Client Mode :). Water was always present, so no need for battery at all. Hey, what about a higher level recipient on that pond, that have falling water that power a mini turbine that power a pump that put water again in the upper container for the turbine to have water to function. The rest of electricity goes to Mesh wifi repeater ! Sure, It is not as hidden as the presented solution. Wait, is this a perpetum mobile ! ;)

[@maxrunge7599]

I have built a few similar setups for a local collage to use in their test farms. The one thing i added was a "on" timer with an external momentary PB so that the battery would charge but nothing would be on until the button was pushed. Then I just program the timer to be on for 4 hours then it would shut everything off but the charging circuit. Since they normally dont use them every day the battery is always full.

[@mybeachshack]

Outstanding bit of DIY. Very well done. Your attention to the details is very attractive. Thanks for posting.... Btw, I have a 3-piece EERO mesh in my concrete house in the Caribbean. It does struggle with the rebar in the walls. 😅

[@heyitsmeadam]

Super cool! I didn't know the load terminals would pull from the battery when the sun is down..

[@Rkcuddles]

Love how you have faster upload in your remote location and backyard. Meanwhile, xfinity’ s top tier service in my area is only 25mbps upload

[@mattakadanja]

Great video. Great ideas and execution. Glad it’s working out like you hoped. You got a sub.

[@jtstacey83]

I probably would have used what I use now, and that is Google Mesh. Great video.

[@SnackAttack77]

Thanks for this! I'm looking at doing something similar except having Mediacom's hardwired at street with solar and then AP'ing to my house. I have TMobile home internet as well but would like hardwired speeds again since I'm too far off the road.

[@JesseMSheridan]

Brilliant! Very curious to hear how the battery behaves in low temperatures.

[@matthewfarrell317]

I was wondering why you just didn't use a x50 outdoor, then I saw the other devices and it made since. Same company different ecosystem. I had thought of running a solar powered deco outside. Nice to know it works lol.

[@AR-wz6yz]

Thanks for posting this video. For additional coverage and to create a mesh, what other product do I need. I am setting up for 5 additional extenders into the mesh. I have 6 Batteries and 6 solar panels with switches and the controllers already. I also have the tp 1800 already.

[@catdaddyglenn9697]

Fantastic little project, and a great idea! Thanks.

[@Toastmaster_5000]

I've done something similar, except my system oddly enough is far less complex while offering double the bandwidth for roughly the same range. I have these Unifi systems that need to point directly at each other. They use PoE but they operate at a range of 12-24v, which is easy to power for most individual low-wattage solar panels. I have a tiny wifi AP that is also powered through PoE, so it means fewer cables. To save power, I lowered the signal strength of the wifi, which also helps keep the SSID to not leave my property.

[@huf67]

I'm impressed with this !! Good presentation.

[@Leonardokite]

Awesome! I'll be needing something like this next spring. Thank you very much for your video.

[@dansklrvids7303]

Very cool - one question: How will that lithium battery safely charge in the winter? It doesn't appear to be a heated battery.

[@briguymaine]

I was thinking the same thing and decided to look around before adding my 2 cents! The amazon description doesn't say anything about cold shutoff, only high temp shutoff.

[@Audi_rings]

Interesting setup. Those are some solid speeds

[@SilverCymbal]

Thank you, the difference is very appreciated. As went down the hill it we be non-existent a lot. Now with wi-fi calling enable I dont miss calls and can call out too.

[@TechHanger]

Good Job! 😍👍

[@ter450]

Nice project. Planning on moving rural in the next few months and this will be on the list. I avoid TP Link products due to security concerns. Quick search will point these out, as well as a detailed reading of their TOS agreement. I use a Google mesh.

[@glennmcgurrin8397]

If you wanted a better signal you could go with a dedicated point to point radio feeding an access point, that gives better performance than a mesh in many cases and much linger range as the point to point radio will use a more directional antenna. If you have very clear line of sight uou could even go with a 60ghz p2p set that can do a full two gigabits over the radio (maximg out full duplex 1 gigabit wired links with one gigabit in each direction).

[@funstuffonthenet5573]

Some interesting ideas in this video. I might use some of your ideas to get some security cameras working.

[@RomanVallot]

This is a very smart set-up! I have to power the EAP 610 as a mesh but my question is, is there a similar set up without a battery?

[@kpbarbee]

I learned a lot watching this--thank you!

[@coppermountainstudios3312]

What would be your suggestion for sub zero temps with a setup like this? it can get to -40c up here.. Great video

[@Dsgagp]

Hi, really nice work. How much time it takes the solar pamel to fully load the battery? is not too much a 100 AH Battery? I need a battery loaded in 5h with a 50w solar pannel. Thanks.

[@HollywoodMGB3]

What modifications would you need if you want to use a setup like this for cellular boost? We offer travel to a place that has good cellular service but does have dead spots.

[@MiniDevilDF]

Have you tried running stacked yagi antennas? I find that standard wifi access points that are flat like that don't really have any useful antenna gain. If you have a specific direction from the house you'd like extended range in, stacking some yagis up on the roof pointed in that general direction can get you wifi out well past 500 feet.

[@PammyRock]

Bill Nye the Science Guy would be proud!!!!😊

[@berthogendoorn2133]

I am wonder about the fall, winter, and early spring do you remove the battery and store inside for the winter, most standard lithium batteries cannot take a charge at or below 32Deg.F., some have built in heaters to negate this issue, but that does consume some of the battery capacity when the heaters are active.

[@MayankJairaj]

Great video! Had a ques: Is 50 watt enough for a build like this?

[@billjenkins687]

I would like to try this setup but also use some of the available current to power some yolink devices via a buck transformer.

[@batterynerd8779]

Wow! Nice project. I have a starlink and am always struggling to get a good connection in the house. In europe we have really thick walls. I shall take a look at these tp-link products

[@robertmeyer4744]

looks great. I use battery box like that for HAM/GMRS radio use. Tent camping as well . for me I have 4G/5G access point running from folding solar. up to 300 watts MPPT victron controller. some campgrounds do not have 5G coverage. Miss the 3G network. was slower but reached more places. for me where we go do not have WiFi . have to use hotspot over cell network. and one camp cite had to use WE boost for cell. works well but reduced speed. normally connect 4G cell network. nice project. I like camping on the go with my girlfriend so our use is different.

[@MirageCarbon2260]

I would put some step stones or pavers underneath the shed and put the battery on some bricks so they would avoid unnecessary moisture.

[@807paperclip]

A wind storm and that one secured point of gravity on the solar panel. Would put screws right behind the panel on the bottom edge and tie strings from the panel to the screws. This allow apply pressure to have the panel stay on the roof on a downward motion. Either way a nice built.

[@TonyCecala]

Painting it-next level!

[@AndrewWells527]

If the solar is not keeping up, you might want to consider a switch that supports POE scheduling. Some power could be saved by not running the WiFi all night.

[@mikemcdonald5147]

WOW Those are some thin wires t 5:20 I would use a little beefier as there will be a lot of loss in that thin of wire.

[@jasonludwig2827]

Great video, did you mention what distance you deployed the AP away from the garage AP?

[@SilverCymbal]

The distance between the garage AP and shed right now is about 400 feet. They state you shouldnt go over 300 feet but I am outdoors and though a of trees it is acceptable for now.

[@GameAssetsGarden]

This is absolutely amazing! I need to make one of these for my backyard. 👏🏻👏🏻

[@DragonLady8705]

Thank you! I'm currently using an AyrMesh Mesh system to extend though my field. It looses signal going into the woods. I was looking for a way to bounce the signal down some logging trails to get it through the rest of my 60+ acres of woods. I think this might work? The goal would be to to get internet thought the woods and use security cameras as trail camera (Eufy makes great solar cameras). I think this method might work. Any suggestions? Thank you.

[@zoefaith120]

So it's cool thing to have a outhouse out in the woods.