How to Build a Solar Powered WiFi Extender for Only $20

Introduction

A solar powered WiFi extender can help you get WiFi access in places where you have a weak signal from your main router. By using solar power, you don't need to run electrical wires or change batteries. And you can build one yourself for only around $20!

In this comprehensive DIY guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know to build your own solar powered WiFi extender affordably.

What You Will Need

To complete this project, you will need the following components:

• Raspberry Pi Zero W - This single board computer has built-in WiFi capabilities to serve as the brains of your WiFi extender. ($10)
• MicroSD card - To store the operating system and software for the Raspberry Pi. ($5)
• Solar panel - To charge the Raspberry Pi. Look for a 5V USB solar panel. (Around $5)
• Power bank - Acts as a battery to store charge from the solar panel to power the Pi when the sun isn't shining. (Around $5)
• USB cable - To connect the solar panel to the power bank for charging. ($1-2)
• Enclosure - To house the Pi and protect it from the elements. You can 3D print an enclosure or repurpose a plastic food storage container. (Free - $5)

In total, you can source all of these components for around $20 to $30. The Raspberry Pi Zero W and the solar panel will be the biggest expenses.

Software Configuration

To turn the Raspberry Pi Zero into a WiFi extender, you'll need to install and configure some software:

• Raspberry Pi OS - This Linux distribution for the Pi will run all the necessary software. Image it onto the microSD card.
• Hostapd - This opens up the Raspberry Pi's wireless capabilities to act as an access point.
• DNSMasq - Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices connecting to the Pi.

Here are the steps to get the software set up:

1. Image Raspberry Pi OS onto a microSD card using imaging software like Etcher.

2. Enable SSH on the Pi by placing a blank file called ssh onto the boot partition of the SD card.

3. Plug the microSD card into the Pi and power it on. Connect via SSH.

4. Update the OS sudo apt update && sudo apt full-upgrade

5. Install hostapd and dnsmasq sudo apt install hostapd dnsmasq

6. Configure the hostapd and dnsmasq based on guides and tutorials. There are lots of resources online.

7. The Pi should now be able to act as a WiFi access point!

Powering with Solar

To make your WiFi extender fully solar powered, you'll need to connect a solar panel to a power bank which will charge and power the Raspberry Pi.

Follow these steps:

1. Get a 5V USB solar panel that can supply at least 2A - 3A of current.

2. Using a power bank that can charge from 5V USB and has at least 10,000 mAh capacity. Anker makes quality affordable models.

3. Connect the solar panel to the power bank using a USB charging cable. Place the panel in direct sunlight to charge.

4. Once charged, disconnect the solar panel and connect the Raspberry Pi to the power bank's USB port.

5. Place the panel back in daylight so it recharges the power bank while also powering the Pi.

The power bank acts as a buffer so the Pi can run even when the sun isn't shining!

Building an Enclosure

To complete your solar WiFi extender, you'll need to build or source a protective enclosure. Here are some options:

• 3D print a case using ABS or PETG filament. Designs are available on sites like Thingiverse.

• Plastic food container - Find one large enough for the Pi and power bank, and drill holes to pass wires through.

• Junction box - Use a weatherproof junction box and drill holes for wiring.

• Tupperware - Reuse a plastic container, pad the bottom, and drill wiring holes.

Make sure to include a hole for the solar panel wires too. The enclosure should protect the components from weather and accidental damage.

Installing Your Extender

With all the pieces assembled, now you can install your solar WiFi extender in place:

• Place the extender enclosure in a sunny spot within range of your main router's WiFi signal.

• Ensure it is positioned so the solar panel gets optimal sunlight to keep the power bank charged.

• Connect devices to the extender's WiFi network and verify expanded WiFi coverage.

• Consider elevating or repositioning the extender if the signal remains weak.

• Your solar powered WiFi network is now ready to deliver internet anywhere the sun shines!

With a budget of only $20, you can now build your own solar-powered WiFi range extender! This project is an affordable way to expand your home or office WiFi network to those spots that your current router can't reach. Plus, tapping into the sun's energy means you'll avoid costly electrical wiring. Follow this guide and enjoy internet access from places your network doesn't currently cover.