How to Build a Solar Powered Wi-Fi Repeater for Under $20

Introduction

Building a solar powered Wi-Fi repeater can extend your wireless network's range and provide internet access to remote areas of your home or property without running new cables. With the right components, I was able to build one for under $20. In this guide, I will walk through the full process so you can build your own affordable solar powered Wi-Fi repeater.

Benefits of a Solar Powered Wi-Fi Repeater

Here are some of the benefits of building a solar powered Wi-Fi repeater:

Extend your wireless range - A repeater can pick up your router's Wi-Fi signal and rebroadcast it further, expanding your coverage area. This allows you to get internet access in dead zones.
Access hard-to-reach areas - By powering the repeater with solar energy, you can install it anywhere outdoors without needing to run power cables. This makes it perfect for remote corners of your property.
Low cost - With DIY construction and solar power, you can build one for less than $20. Much cheaper than commercial Wi-Fi range extenders.
Eco-friendly - Solar power means the repeater doesn't need to be plugged in, so it doesn't consume electricity from the grid.

Required Components

To build your own solar powered Wi-Fi repeater, you will need the following components:

Solar panel - A small 5V or 6V solar panel capable of producing at least 500mA of current. These can be found for around $5.
TP-Link TL-WR902AC router - Available for under $20, this router can function as a wireless repeater. Make sure to get the AC version.
DC barrel jack adapter - Used to connect the solar panel to the router. Around $1.
DC-DC buck converter - Steps down solar panel voltage to 5V for the router. About $1.
Cables and housing - For connecting the components and weatherproofing.

Step-by-Step Build Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your solar powered Wi-Fi repeater:

1. Set up the router as a repeater

The TL-WR902AC is a dual-band wireless router that can also operate in repeater mode. To enable this, connect to the router's web interface and go to the Operation Mode section. Set it to Wireless Repeater mode.

You'll need to enter your existing wireless network name (SSID) and password so the router can connect to it. Hit save when done.

2. Connect the solar panel to the buck converter

Solder longer leads onto the solar panel's positive and negative terminals. Connect red wire to positive, black to negative.

Connect the red wire to the input positive screw terminal on the buck converter. Connect black to the input negative terminal.

3- Connect buck converter to router

The buck converter will step down the solar panel's voltage to 5V for the router.

Solder longer leads onto the buck converter's output terminals. Connect red to positive, black to negative.

Attach the barrel jack adapter to the output wires - red wire to the center pin, black to the outer sleeve.

Plug the barrel jack into the router's 5V power input.

4. Install in enclosure

Install the router and electronics into a weatherproof enclosure or plastic tupperware container.

Drill a hole for routing the solar panel wires inside. Seal with silicone caulk.

Use adhesive to mount the solar panel to the lid angled upward.

5. Position for best sunlight

For optimal solar exposure, install your repeater enclosure high up with a view of the southern sky. Ideal locations are on the side of buildings, fence posts, or exterior poles.

Angle the solar panel to face direct sunlight as much as possible.

Usage Tips

Here are some tips to get the most out of your solar Wi-Fi repeater:

Start by testing reception at varying distances to determine optimal placement.
Refresh the router's firmware and set a new password for better security.
Adjust the solar panel angle seasonally as the sun's path changes.
Add a battery to collect surplus solar energy for use at night or cloudy days.

With this cheap solar powered design, I was able to extend Wi-Fi coverage across my entire property! Let me know if you have any other questions.