WiFi/Internet to the Workshop - Success

[jdunn01]

I was finally able to get WiFi Internet working in my new metal workshop 200 feet from the house.

I already had a Ubiguiti Amply router running the internet and WiFi in my house.

I purchased a Ubiguiti NanoStation Loco M5 and placed on the outside of the workshop pointed at the house. After playing around with the configuration I was able to get it to lock in to the house WiFi. I then added a TP Link WiFi router and configured to act as an access point and BAM great signal at the workshop.

Don't bother calling Ubiguiti support as they told me there was no way this would not work without 2 NanoStations pointing at each other.

 

[Mirage]

Congrats on getting it working (and figured out on your own). I'm in the middle of fiddling with this myself though mines about 100' from the house. I've got a TP-Link CPE210 sitting in the back window of the house set up in repeater mode pointed straight at the garage. My phone and car connect fine to the network but the stupid Roku stick will not connect even though it reads maximum signal strength, and this whole thing started because I put the old TV out there and wanted to be able to watch it lol.

Probably going to run Cat6 up through the attic to the gable vent and mount the CPE up there on a J-mast pointed at the garage. I don't see my wife being happy with it left dangling from the back window lock like I have it now.

 

[jdunn01]

Congrats on getting it working (and figured out on your own). I'm in the middle of fiddling with this myself though mines about 100' from the house. I've got a TP-Link CPE210 sitting in the back window of the house set up in repeater mode pointed straight at the garage. My phone and car connect fine to the network but the stupid Roku stick will not connect even though it reads maximum signal strength, and this whole thing started because I put the old TV out there and wanted to be able to watch it lol.

Probably going to run Cat6 up through the attic to the gable vent and mount the CPE up there on a J-mast pointed at the garage. I don't see my wife being happy with it left dangling from the back window lock like I have it now.

If you change your mind and go with the Ubiguiti NanoStation Loco M5 i'll help if i can on the configuration. I'm no expert but I can Forest Gump my way through. lol

 

[matt_i]

Congrats! Very satisfying upgrade to get the WiFi out there even if its just for searching to see if the box store has what you need in stock before you drive over there

 

[Hubmonkey]

Jdunn01 Do you use the Amplifi HD Mesh or just a Amplifi Instant WiFi Internet router? Also what TPLink router are you using for a bridge?

 

[jdunn01]

Jdunn01 Do you use the Amplifi HD Mesh or just a Amplifi Instant WiFi Internet router? Also what TPLink router are you using for a bridge?

I am using a Amplify HD Mesh in the house with two mesh points as i had to cover 4,000 sq ft. I installed the Ubiguiti NanoStation on the outside of the metal workshop. The NanoStation has a led light system on the back of it that helps in alignment (but takes a few minutes when initially powered on to link up. This had me thinking it wasn't working initially) Inside the barn i connected the Nanostation to a TL Link Archer AC1200 Wireless Dual Band Gigabit Router and configured as an Access Point.

I spent a bit of time on Google to figure it all out.

 

[jdunn01]

Congrats! Very satisfying upgrade to get the WiFi out there even if its just for searching to see if the box store has what you need in stock before you drive over there

Actually have a 65 inch Samsung smart tv with a Prime Fire stick in the workshop so I can watch football or Listen to Amazon Music (Samsung won't let you download Amazon Prime or Music thus the Firestick). Did find out that Samsung only connects to the 2Ghz WiFi as it does not support 5Ghz. But seems to work fine even with 4K content.

 

[BruceMc]

I was sceptical, but being in a similar situation, this week I gave these powerline adapters a try while waiting for a new Synology router to arrive. I'm impressed. Just paired them, then set them up . One end is connected to the DSL modem and the other adapter runs through a subpanel and plugs into a GFCI protected circuit on the far end. No muss, no fuss, it just worked. Probably running over about 150' of wire.

https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/powerline/tl-pa9020p-kit/

 

[jdunn01]

I was sceptical, but being in a similar situation, this week I gave these powerline adapters a try while waiting for a new Synology router to arrive. I'm impressed. Just paired them, then set them up . One end is connected to the DSL modem and the other adapter runs through a subpanel and plugs into a GFCI protected circuit on the far end. No muss, no fuss, it just worked. Probably running over about 150' of wire.

https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/powerline/tl-pa9020p-kit/

AS long as you workshop is running on the same panel these might work. I tried an earlier version of these from TP Link in the house before i bought the Amply HD Mesh solution. but they did not work very well

 

[BruceMc]

AS long as you workshop is running on the same panel these might work. I tried an earlier version of these from TP Link in the house before i bought the Amply HD Mesh solution. but they did not work very well

That's why I was a sceptic, and I read a lot of different opinions. I think they have a bad reputation from earlier standards that really didn't perform very well. I've read that powerline only works on the same circuit, only works on the same panel, won't work through a subpanel, wouldn't work through GFCI.

Then I also read there were security concerns because, as long as you were on the same transformer, your neighbors could access your wired network in their homes, too.

I was originally intending to use it to avoid running Cat5 for an NVR in the house, but decided to give it a worst case try - different building, through a subpanel, plugged into a GFCI protected circuit. And it worked like it was supposed to. So just offering some real world experience, especially given they were only $80.

 

[OccupantRJ]

I was sceptical, but being in a similar situation, this week I gave these powerline adapters a try while waiting for a new Synology router to arrive. I'm impressed. Just paired them, then set them up . One end is connected to the DSL modem and the other adapter runs through a subpanel and plugs into a GFCI protected circuit on the far end. No muss, no fuss, it just worked. Probably running over about 150' of wire.

https://www.tp-link.com/us/home-networking/powerline/tl-pa9020p-kit/

If you later have issues with this setup, check to make sure that circuit does not have anything that has a transformer plugged into it. I once had a power line intercom that would not work if a battery charger was on the circuit. Took me a while to figure that one out.

 

[BruceMc]

If you later have issues with this setup, check to make sure that circuit does not have anything that has a transformer plugged into it. I once had a power line intercom that would not work if a battery charger was on the circuit. Took me a while to figure that one out.

Yeah, I do intend to do some testing with it. Originally I was thinking I might have to run a dedicated circuit off the sub just to avoid the GFCI. I have enough parts and pieces collecting dust that it wouldn't be a big deal if that's necessary.

 

[jdunn01]

Yeah I love trying to figure out something that isn't supposed to work. LOL

I probably waste a lot time trying to make **** work that never will but when you get a win it feels great!

 

[GTFiero]

All good info. I tried the power line option from house to pole barn (180’) with no joy. Also tried the WiFi repeater type route, no joy there. Next I was thinking of possibly doing a Ethernet line from house router to barn (220’). Any ideas? I like what the original poster put out there but I’m trying to avoid any exterior mast or box installs. Thanks Kevin

 

[jdunn01]

GTFiero,

Here are pics of the outside installation of the Nanostation they are rated for outdoor use. I am going to pick up some heavy duty outside rated tie straps or just anchor it with a small block of wood to the downspout.

I guess if a guy had a vacuum sealer you could seal it in plastic but at ~$55 I'm not to worried. Probably could even spray it brown if it bothers ya.

Also was a little worried about Ethernet degradation running in though the same entrance as the power but it appears not impact it as I get the speed test in the garage as I do in the house.

 

[Roothawg]

This is interesting, even though I have no idea what you are talking about. I have the same issue i the shop. It's about 100' away.

 

[winnipegtibook]

Hi all,

THrough three garages (well, two, one "super shed") and help in a barn, I've run CAT5, used coax, and have used powerline. For those who can't run CAT5 or coax, using a line of sight extender (via RF signal) works quite well (the horses were very happy with the internet service), but the powerline stuff has been really impressive. I did learn from experience that having your "home" powerline facing the direction of the structure helps. I have NO idea how to scientifically prove this, but it seemed to reduce hiccups.

Oh, and mirroring the powerline to your home network AND locking it on a channel will help with connectivity back and forth. I used to run seperate networks, and well, it was a pain.

 

[Lucid Moments]

Ubiquiti has some good products, but their customer service is ****. Good that you were able to get it working on your own.

 

[winnipegtibook]

I've had success with D-Link products. Easy GUI, easy login. THe one piece that might help members is finding the IP address when it's on your network. I use "fing", which gives the IP addresses of all your "connected stuff."

 

[kbeefy]

I tried the TP Link Powerlink but didn't have any luck getting out of the house.
They work great around the house though.

I picked up a couple Nano M2's and tried getting everything going last weekend. I got the first one working as a base, but was unable to pair the second one as a repeater for in my shop. I'll probably try again in the next couple weeks.

 

[BruceMc]

Anyone have experience with this? I've also got a (future) rental about 600' away, and this set-up seems to get decent reviews all around for setting up a consumer level point-to-point connection.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N2RO63U/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[winnipegtibook]

Point to point systems work quite well. What you might want to do on the "receiving" end is use a simple wifi extender to get coverage on that end. What I would probably suggest is using a simple inxensive extender. This way you can use coax from the Point to the extender, IF you need to run it any decent length. THe actiontec ones are used by internet / cable companies and can be purchased for $25ish. They are great value.

 

[seancassey]

I use ASUS GT-AX11000 - That thing is a MONSTER, On top of that I use Netgear AIMESH, working without a problem, I get almost same speed from my house to my garage

 

[winnipegtibook]

Keep in mind, I am north of the border, so my point of reference is a bit different. Agreed with ASUS devices, very good choice. If the member who is looking has access to a goodwill type store, those router / extenders seem to pop up for me almost every week...

 

[Mirage]

Anyone have experience with this? I've also got a (future) rental about 600' away, and this set-up seems to get decent reviews all around for setting up a consumer level point-to-point connection.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00N2RO63U/?tag=atomicindus08-20

I just got one CPE210, which is the 2.4ghz version of that same device a few days ago. I'm still having setup issues, getting an internet connection. But I have tested it 2 ways, with it sitting at the back of the house in "Repeater" mode and sitting at the front of the garage (about where I would install it on the exterior) in "Access Point Client Router" mode and I was able set up the network and get 3 bars of signal with a decent SNR on the device both ways I tried it. Once I get it sorted out where I get the internet connection I should be good to go.

For your setup you will need 2 CPE's, one at either end and an Access Point/Router/Extender for wifi coverage in your rental. While the CPE can act as a router too its very focused antenna would probably give you poor coverage in your rental because it is very directional. It is good enough coverage for my detached garage though from what I could tell when I was messing with signal strength yesterday. My plan was to pick up a second to use a bridge if I couldn't get signal from just one.

 

[BruceMc]

For your setup you will need 2 CPE's, one at either end and an Access Point/Router/Extender for wifi coverage in your rental. While the CPE can act as a router too its very focused antenna would probably give you poor coverage in your rental because it is very directional. It is good enough coverage for my detached garage though from what I could tell when I was messing with signal strength yesterday. My plan was to pick up a second to use a bridge if I couldn't get signal from just one.

My thinking at the moment is to set it up as an AP/client, then run a PoE switch on the far end for an IP camera and maybe some sensors (temperature/motion/smoke). I haven't settled on what I'm going to do with the place yet (rental, B&B, etc), so at this point I mostly want to keep an eye on things while it sits empty.

 

[GTFiero]

Thanks Jdunn01!

Can you install the sending antenna in the garage at your house, or does it also have to be outside?

I may look into your setup, but also tempted to run a ethernet line up there. Just not sure how far I could run before losing the house signal. I would be connecting to the house dsl/ WiFi box. Total distance estimated at 180 ft.

 

[jdunn01]

Thanks Jdunn01!

Can you install the sending antenna in the garage at your house, or does it also have to be outside?

I may look into your setup, but also tempted to run a ethernet line up there. Just not sure how far I could run before losing the house signal. I would be connecting to the house dsl/ WiFi box. Total distance estimated at 180 ft.

I only have the one NanoStation along with the TP Link router configured as an access point down at the workshop which is 200 ft away.

So I’m not using a “sending” antenna.

I’m getting the same speed in the workshop as I am in the house.

Very happy with the set up and only cost ~$60 as I already had the TP Link router laying around.


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[winnipegtibook]

you can always run coax and ethernet. Coax is always an easy way to ensure a signal, double up if you can even...cable is cheaper than digging a second time!

 

[GTFiero]

How far can a Ethernet line be run?

Also a question about PoE. So you only run a Ethernet wire from your house router to the Nano M5 which gives the M5 its power and signal?? Also at the other end (receiving end) you just connect the router there to the M5 with a Ethernet wire? I’m kinda new to this, if you didn’t know, but it sure seems like the solution.

My guess is the other way is to have a strong house WiFi and pickup that signal with a Nano M5 at the barn 220’ away.

Thanks for the help!

 

[jdunn01]

GTFiero, I was lucky enough to pick up my wifi form the house with only one Nanostation M5 Loco at the workshop 200 Ft away.

The PoE is provided as part of the NanoStation via a PoE injector. You just plug it in in between the Access Point and the Nanostation at the location of the NanoStation.

I hope that makes sense

 

[winnipegtibook]

COnsidering that ethernet is run all around corporate offices, it can handle long runs, although there are often repeaters. To be honest, I'd almost say run a coax AND a ethernet. Start with the coax, you may find it to have the same "loss" as ethernet, when dealing with that length. In our neck of the woods (city), the ISP's use coax to get to houses and we have speeds at 300+.

 

[Dudebrowtf]

I have a 100' run of Cat5e I plan to connect next weekend running from PoE switch to a Ubiquiti in the garage. I'll post updates when its connected.

 

[BruceMc]

How far can a Ethernet line be run?

The max for Cat5e is usually listed at 100m (328 feet). IIRC, Cat 6 & 7 can be substantially less.

 

[GTFiero]

Thanks all for the great replies!

Anyone got a photo or model number of a PoE Injector I could use?

Thx

 

[jdunn01]

Thanks all for the great replies!

Anyone got a photo or model number of a PoE Injector I could use?

Thx

GTfiero, the NanoStation loco M5 comes with a PoE injector as part of the kit.


Sent from my iPhone using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[Mirage]

Finally got mine sorted out, fully operational internet connection now. Getting 90-92% signal strength at the back of the garage with ~25 Mbps down - ~12 up off my 200 connection. Getting 80% signal strength with ~10 Mbps down at the back of my backyard which is ~250 feet direct LOS from the CPE210 in repeater mode. Wife did not like the idea of leaving it in the window lol, so I will probably be running cable through the attic to the gable end of the house to mount it and set it up as an outdoor AP.

 

[winnipegtibook]

That's great speed, good work. Having connectivity helps so much, I always seem to have some sort of video tutorial on the go.

 

[GTFiero]

Thanks jdunn01. Really appreciate the info!!!

Will order the M5 soon.

 

[xdrag48]

I ran mine 250' buried in the gray plastic electricians use.Put it in the ditch with the electric 12" apart,never had a problem with it.