ESP32 modules often have “integrated antennas” printed on the PCBs. But, at times, you might need improved Wi-Fi range. A solution can be an external antenna, but not every module has a socket for such a connection. Fortunately, you can try this ESP32 range extender hack! The ESP32 Range Extender Project When experimenting with ESP32 modules, especially the ESP32 CAMs, I wished for greater Wi-Fi range. Adding an external antenna could help, but few modules are equipped for this. The cost and mechanical complexity may not be commensurate with the benefit achieved. Figure 1: The F-shaped λ/4 antenna “printed” on an ESP32 BoB’s PCB. The original printed antenna on a standard ESP32 board is a meandering, inverted-F antenna with a λ/4 wavelength (see Figure 1). This type of antenna balances size, an almost omnidirectional antenna pattern, acceptable power efficiency and the Wi-Fi range­ within the limits of the given RF power and reception sensitivity of the ESP32...