Build Your Own "SPY 2.0" Antenna
From ShadoWiki
The "Spy 2.0" antenna is a simplified and easy to build version of the dipole antennas built for Treo PDAPhones. They are designed to be modular, easy to make, and to fit multiple types of phones. This design has several advantages over a conventional antenna, specifically simplicity, ease of construction, and accuricy of some fundimental aspects of antenna design.
Contents |
Obligitory Disclaimer
Building or attempting to build a custom antenna implies that you:
1 Are responcible for your own safety, taking any and all safety precaustions, using
relevant safety gear where applicable, and are familiar with the tools you use to build
any antennas.
2 Are following to the best of your ability the directions listed here, and when in doubt
either seeking help or useing your best judgement.
3 Are aware the procedures listed here and use of the antenna will not directly hurt your
phone. The external antenna connector on your phone was designed for the use of an external
antenna, exactly the end result of building or using a custom antenna. Any warrany voiding
behavior is directly a result of you doing something that is not contained in the instructions.
Phone Compatibility List
If you know positively what kind of cable adapter your phone uses, please add it to the list.
Phone Model Number : Type of Cable Needed
Treo 650 : Female FME
Treo 600 : Female FME
PPC 6700 : Male FME
The connector on the left (with the plastic cap) is the female FME cable. The one on the right is the male FME.
materials needed
Coaxial cable with connector - Can be oredered on Ebay or any cell phone external antenna supplier as an "adapter cable." To find one simply do an Ebay or google search for "Your phone's name and model number" (i.e. Treo 650) and "antenna adapter cable". I find that "treo antenna" is a good set of keywords for an Ebay search. Prices range from $7 to $20, any higher than that and it usually means you are buying more equipment that just a cable. These cables should have an appropriate fitting to your phone on one end and a generic "N" connector on the other. Since we plan on only using the end that connects to your phone, it doesnt matter what the other end is.
2 bic plastic ballpoint pens - needs to be a soft plastic and a pen with simple friction fit plugs at either end. Think "cheapest pen ever made," and you will probably have the right one. Steal it from work, get one at a store, these things are everywhere.
Non-Conductive Epoxy - again no real distinction, although some have metal flakes in it to make it stronger. Any epoxy that can be moulded and doesnt have metal flakes will do.
Tool List
Penknife - any exacto like cutting device. Precision is the name of the game.
Ruler - I will try to make all my measurements in inches, and using fractions to make this as easy as possible.
Small Drill - actually the size of the drill doenst matter, just the drill bit. We are looking to make holes in plastic about 1/8 inch diameter. You can use a penknife for this if you wish.
Project Scope
This antenna is simple. That does not mean that it will not work well, rather the simplicity makes it easier to make it work well. Overall performance will be determined by how precicely this is built.
Having all your materials ready and waiting will make the whole process easier.
Determine Your Operating Frequency
The operating frequency will dictate what size your antenna will be, and what set of plans to follow.
CDMA uses one of 2 base frequencies. Although the actual frequency is determined by the "cell" you are using (hence "cell phones"), it will be close to one of 2 frequencies: 800MHz and 1900MHz.
Simply put, Verizon = 800MHz and Sprint = 1900MHz. If you have another carrier, ask a sales rep or a customer service associate what frequency band you use. Plans will be labelled "Sprint 1900" and "Verizon 800", simply follow the appropriate plans for your frequency.
Choose the Correct Set of Plans
To simplify this page and to reduce confusion I have seperated the Plans. Please pick the plans appropiate to your phones operating frequency.
Sprint 1900/GSM 1900
Verizon 800
Multiband GSM
