We've all been there: the marina offers free internet access via Wi-Fi, but below deck the signal strength is negligible and even in the cockpit the data transfer rate leaves a lot to be desired. The antenna systems from Silentwind are designed to provide a remedy. The W-Lan antenna (for 119 euros) uses a GRP antenna for masthead mounting with space for a USB W-Lan stick (50 euros) in the base. The system can either be connected directly to the computer or a special Wi-Fi router (154 euros) can be connected, which distributes the Internet connection to any devices via radio. Thanks to the raised antenna position and loss-free transmission via USB, Wi-Fi ranges of up to seven kilometres should be possible. The cable length between the antenna and PC is 14 metres, with up to 40 metres possible using a signal amplifier.
The Hot Spot Catcher goes one step further. Here, a mobile phone antenna is installed in the mast in addition to the Wi-Fi antenna. Both antennas are connected to a power amplifier, which is also mounted in the top of the mast and transmits the signal downwards via a network cable to a special WiFi router. The advantage of this solution is that there are no losses due to long antenna cables, and the SIM cards for mobile phone operation can be conveniently changed below deck. Depending on the configuration, the hot-spot catcher automatically switches between Wi-Fi and UMTS operation as soon as the respective network is received. The system costs 1085 euros with antennas.
Further information about www.silentwindgenerator.de.
Hauke Schmidt
Test & Technology editor
