The Socal heat wave continues, unabated. Spent some time yesterday working outside in 100ish degrees, and it definitely had an effect. Had to come inside, cool off and hydrate much sooner than expected. You’d think I was old or something.
Today I’m working on a Wifi repeater for the outdoor LAN connecting all the security cams. I’ve bought a cheap Chinese solar-powered repeater (and I don’t know if it will work), and a WAVLINK that I know will work. I’ll install the solar/battery powered one first, and if it works I can install copies of it around the property. It’s strictly a repeater so I won’t have the mesh functions of the WAVLINK, but it’s half the price. If I were only installing one, I’d just go with the WAVLINK. But I probably need 3-4 of them to get a solid LAN around 5 acres, so it becomes a noticeable price difference.
Plus, the WAVLINK needs a standard power connection, 120VAC, and the Chinese version doesn’t. Much, much simpler installation. Running power to the edges of the property would be the hardest part of the whole project.
I was originally going to install each repeater on a pole that I secured into the ground (probably concrete), but I’ve come up with an easier idea (there’s a theme here). I’m using an outdoor-rated tripod, designed for water sprinklers. Heavy duty metal and with ground securing spikes on each leg, so it should be stable enough for the solar repeater. Haven’t quite figured out how to attach the solar repeater to the top of the tripod yet, but I’m buying on Amazon so I can take delivery, see in person if I can hack the connection, and if not just repack and return. If things go well I’ll have the first version of the LAN extenders out on the property by tonight, at worst tomorrow morning. If it works as expected, I’ll not only have better security cam coverage, but I may install a few wildlife cams too. We can watch the coyotes party at night.
Yesterday’s Dolly Parton news was sure sad, and man she went out fast. Apparently it was cancer, though I don’t think I’ve seen a case like hers – she was seemingly active and healthy just a week before she died. But going out fast…that’s a blessing. She had a remarkable life, a great person in all respects.