Boosting a Spektrum 2.4GHz with an amplifier

[RolandS888]

Just wondering if anyone has actually gone down this path of using an amp on a 2.4Ghz RC transmitter. I know that > 5kms range is possible with a patch antenna, but I'd like to push further with stock (or close to stock) equipment.
I have been doing a bit of reading and the heart of the Spektrum DSM2 uses an off the shelf 2.4GHz Tx/Rx rf module in the Tx that is compatible with 802.11b/g (please correct me if I am wrong here) so really, all that would be needed is a WLAN amp. Many 2.4GHz WLAN amps allow up to 100mW input and will regulate their output to maximum regardless of input signal strength. So that would be perfect.
But there is a problem.
Many WLAN amps dont allow constant transmit, it will overheat them, so I am hesitant to throw the cash at a decent WLAN amp ($350 ish) for the fear of frying it.
So does anyone here know....does the Spektrum DSM2 actually transmit 100% of the time?
And can a WLAN amp be used for Spektrum radio amplification, even if forced air cooloing is needed, would it work?
Any RF experts out there?
Cheers, CC.

[Dimitris76]

I don't see any problem using a Wi-Fi power amplifier on a 2.4Ghz R/C system. WiFi switches so fast and constantly from Tx to Rx mode anyways, that it could be practically considered a full time operating amp.

I have tested a 500mW bidirectional (power-/pre-amp) from Hawkings Technologies on a Dx6 for at least 20 minutes without any problems.

Dimitris

[RolandS888]

I have tested a 500mW bidirectional (power-/pre-amp) from Hawkings Technologies on a Dx6 for at least 20 minutes without any problems.
Dimitris

Tested?? Did you happen to range test it at all ?
Did the amp warm up at all?

[Dimitris76]

Yes it got pretty warm... but this particular amp always gets warm - even when connected on a WiFi router. It's case is solid (moulded) aluminium.

D

[Andrew McGregor]

Spektrum transmitters don't transmit continuously anyway... it's a stream of data packets.

A WiFi amp will work just fine... but why? How far can you see a model?

[RolandS888]

A WiFi amp will work just fine... but why? How far can you see a model?

Thanks Andrew, thats the info I wanted to confirm.

For the "why" part, I would refer you to the FPV forum here on RCGroups.
With the aid of video transmitters and video goggles you can fly well out of sight, kilometers infact.
Cheers,
CC

[Andrew McGregor]

Well, ok. Thing is, an X9303 is already 800mW, and has a theoretical range of 9km... all you need is a bit of antenna gain and you're there.

[village_idiot]

I bet if you sink a ground rod and tune the RF module for the use of said ground rod, you'll get plenty of range with any of the FM/PCM systems.

[teamdavey]

"Well, ok. Thing is, an X9303 is already 800mW"???????????????????????

What makes you think it's any different to the US ~ 200mW peak?

[Ron van Sommeren]

@cc
Trying to make friends with other RC enthousiasts?

Prettig weekend ;) Ro

[RolandS888]

Well, ok. Thing is, an X9303 is already 800mW, and has a theoretical range of 9km... all you need is a bit of antenna gain and you're there.

Andrew, where did you get your info on the 9303 being 800mW?
As far as I know it is 100mW with an EIRP of 200mW, which is much the same as the module versions.