Pinky

I want to see if I can boost up the output wattage of the chintzy garage door opener! It's just not powerful enough. I am thinking it is maybe the remotes that just aren't putting out enough power.

Other side is to try and do something about the little antenna. I know it's a certain length because it matches the senders signal cycle. Much like FM radio antennas are supposed to be 29.5"(I think) and ours is stubby and hence AMPLIFIED to get better signal.

Anyone have experience or ability to help me out?

boltonblue

not to trivialize your question, start with fresh batteries?

I don't know much about how they are modulating the signal. but...
a quick google would indicate that they are using simple amplitude keying @318 mhz.
so back to my comment about batteries. fresh batteries will likely give you a little more swing on the amp output.

lotus7racer

I got an idea, there is an antenna in every remote devices. Garage door has one at the back.
Try to extend or relocate somewhere else. Heck, test it to route outside too & see if it improve the signal
Oh! watch this too, it will give u an idea

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwGSD673nAQ

grovefromnh

Most garage door openers have adjustable torque settings. One of my doors was slow going up or would stop halfway up. Took off side panel , turned torque setting up with a screwdriver. Works great now!

Jazzman

I like the battery recommendation first.

As far as antenna, I think that is a nice idea too. I was taught the length of an antenna is not random, but in proportion of the wave length. (full wave length, half wave length, double wave length, etc.)

My antenna seems to be directional too, working at twice the distance to the East as West as you approach my home.

just sayin'

-jazzman

boltonblue

I had started to figure out the wavelength vs antenna length question. ( I'm not an RF guy but I did stay at a Holiday Inn express a few months ago, it sucked but that's another thread)
At 318 Mhz your full wave is just under a meter.
you could try doubling the length EXACTLY.
I'd probably try to get same gage etc. although in theory it's not critical.

Pinky

Ok full wave is just under a meter. So I would double "just under a meter" EXACTLY?

boltonblue

ok i chatted with one of the antenna gurus I work with today at lunch. ( he has several antenna patents)

forget what I said. if you went half wave you need to build a dipole. ( ie doubling your existing antenna exactly, so I forgot that part but I thought it )

assuming you have the single strand of wire, type of antenna, the key would be make sure it is hanging straight down towards the ground.
it should not be coiled up etc. and definitely not laying across the top of the unit

Pinky

ok so if the antenna is say 8" long now I would ADD 8 more inches. Cool I will have to try that I think I have some extra wire hanging around or I know a place I can pickup some scrap wire.

Thanks!