The Deliberant WiFi device (model CPE 2-12 shown) is a fully self-contained transceiver - with a directional flat-panel hi-gain antenna included within the case. It is connected to the computer through a network type cable - Ethernet CAT5 (connector looks like a fat modular phone plug) - and gets its power through the same cable via PoE (Power over Ethernet). It is relatively easy to setup and after that, operation is simple and straight forward. At about $100 USD, this is truly the most effective way to get reliable WiFi when on the road RVing. If installed as shown here, it is permanent and eliminates the need to string wires through windows and find places to tape up some kind of USB dongle.

The Installation

I have setup this unit as an extension of the common Winegard Television Antenna found on most RVs. The mounting plate, which comes with the Deliberant unit, is bent into an "L" configuration - which I had to straighten. A vice and some simple tools made it an easy job. No new holes were required with the antenna I have - it was a perfect and simple attachment to the top two screws which hold the Windgard antenna hub to its legs. I routed the CAT5 cable down the same path - through one of the upright legs - as the antenna's coax cable. With the cable coming out under the antenna mounting disk (roof-outside), I drilled a small hole through the roof, which came out inside one of my overhead cabinets. From there the cable is routed to the computer with the POE unit inserted at a convenient location near where the power cube is plugged into a wall outlet.

Its Operation

The operation is as simple as raising the Winegard antenna, pointing it in the direction of the desired WiFi signal source, and "connecting" to that source through the Web Page control interface. The process of making a connection to a WiFi access point will also reveal all other WiFi signals in the area. The Deliberant unit's antenna is quite directional and will have to be adjusted for best signal to obtain maximum reliable connection. Signal sources which are encrypted or otherwise protected cannot be used unless permission is given or other arrangements are made to access those sources. Nor is it suggested here that the internet should be accessed through someone else's paid service without first asking for permission to do so.