Building a Remote Antenna Switch with WiFi Control
Are you tired of running long wires from your radio shack to your antenna? Do you want to operate a remote station without the hassle of manual antenna switching? Look no further than the Remote Antenna Switch! In this article, we will explore how to build a remote antenna switch that can be controlled using your home WiFi, making it ideal for operating a remote station.
Project Scope
The Remote Antenna Switch project aims to switch up to four HF antennas remotely using WiFi. The DC power required for the switch is injected into the coax power using a Bias T, eliminating the need for running long power cables. This project is perfect for those looking to enhance their radio station setup and streamline the antenna switching process.
System Architecture and Technology Stack
The controller board for the switch is based on the ESP8266 Wemos D1 microcontroller. This powerful microcontroller, programmed in MicroPython, can handle up to 14 volts of input and connect up to four switches. The schematics and PCB designs for the controller can be found on EasyEDA, allowing you to replicate the project and customize it to your needs.
Controlling the Switch
The Remote Antenna Switch can be controlled through a web interface or the terminal. Using a web browser, you can easily switch antennas with just a few clicks. The web interface provides a user-friendly way to select the desired antenna and view the status of all the connected ports.
For advanced users, controlling the switch via the terminal is also available. Using a simple command, you can select the desired port and receive confirmation of the selection. Additionally, you can request the status of all ports to see which antennas are currently in use.
Deployment and Integration
The final integration of the controller board and antenna switch is a sight to behold. With just three slots on the controller board and a bias-tee for power injection, you can control up to three relays and seamlessly switch between HF antennas. The integrated solution ensures a neat and efficient setup for your remote station.
Conclusion
The Remote Antenna Switch with WiFi control opens up exciting possibilities for remote station operators. By building your own antenna switch using the ESP8266 Wemos D1 microcontroller and MicroPython, you can enhance your radio station setup and improve your operating experience. Whether you prefer controlling the switch through a web interface or the terminal, this project provides a flexible and reliable solution for seamless antenna switching.
Have you built your own Remote Antenna Switch? Share your experience and insights in the comments below!
References:
– Blog Post on Remote Antenna Switch
– Companion Program: MacSwitch
– ESP8266 Wemos D1 Documentation
– MicroPython Official Website
– Controller Schematics and PCB on EasyEDA
Leave a Reply