External Antennae for Airport

[Ian Sidle]

Not trying to crash the party  here but *beware*...

Using an non-compliant antenna (A.K.A. one not created by the 
manufacturer or one certified for the model) is *illegal*. 
802.11b/WiFi/Airport/etc operate under part15 (unlicensed) rules of the 
FCC. (http://www.arrl.org/tis/info/part15.html) [digest-version] and 
(http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_01/47cfr15_01.html) 
[legalese] are good starting points.

Without an doubt, using an "cantenna" and other home-made creations are 
out of line.  Even if using an commercial antenna but one not designed 
for that model may exceed the regulations.  These same rules apply also 
to those "walkie-talkie" radio's you can pick up at radio-shack 
(FRS-Family Radio Service). In fact, they have greater rules then 
part15 (like no external antenna's period).

Interestingly, some of the frequencies are share ones that (ham) 
amateur radio uses. So some people have modified the cards and are 
using them legally using their ham radio license.

Of course, there is what is against the law and what you can get away 
with... A lot of these probably create an lot of interference, and 
everyone shares the airways so please be an good neighbor ^_^. You 
might boost your airport range but then might make wireless (2.4ghz) 
phone usage impossible to your neighbors.

thanks,
Ian Sidle