Skip to main content
Version: 2.0 (Legacy)

WiFi Hotspot

The WiFi Hotspot feature allows wireless connection of mobile devices and computers to the OpenHD ground station.

Overview​

WiFi Hotspot provides:

  • Wireless Video Access: Stream video to mobile devices
  • Telemetry Sharing: Access flight data wirelessly
  • Multiple Device Support: Connect several devices simultaneously
  • Ground Control Access: Wireless connection for GCS software

Default Configuration​

Network Settings​

  • SSID: Open.HD
  • Password: wifiopenhd
  • IP Range: 192.168.1.x
  • Gateway: 192.168.1.1
  • Channel: Auto-selected

Security​

  • WPA2-PSK: Standard WiFi security
  • Custom Password: Can be changed in settings

Setup and Configuration​

Enable WiFi Hotspot​

  1. Access QOpen.HD settings
  2. Navigate to Network settings
  3. Enable "WiFi Hotspot"
  4. Configure SSID and password
  5. Save and restart system

Advanced Settings​

  • Channel Selection: Manual channel selection
  • Bandwidth: 20MHz or 40MHz channel width
  • Power Level: Adjust transmission power
  • Client Limit: Maximum connected devices

Device Connection​

Mobile Devices​

  1. Search for Open.HD WiFi network
  2. Connect using password wifiopenhd
  3. Launch QOpen.HD app
  4. Video should stream automatically

Computers​

  1. Connect to Open.HD WiFi network
  2. Configure IP address (automatic or manual)
  3. Launch ground control software
  4. Connect to ground station IP (192.168.1.1)

Performance Considerations​

Range Limitations​

  • Indoor Range: 10-30 meters typical
  • Outdoor Range: 50-100 meters depending on obstacles
  • Interference: 2.4GHz band subject to WiFi interference

Bandwidth Sharing​

  • Video Quality: May be reduced with multiple clients
  • Latency: Additional latency introduced for wireless clients
  • Connection Stability: Depends on WiFi signal strength

Troubleshooting​

Connection Issues​

  • Wrong Password: Verify password matches configuration
  • IP Conflicts: Check for IP address conflicts
  • Range Issues: Move closer to ground station
  • Interference: Try different WiFi channels

Performance Issues​

  • Slow Video: Reduce connected device count
  • High Latency: Check WiFi signal strength
  • Dropouts: Minimize interference sources

Security Considerations​

Password Security​

  • Change Default Password: Use strong, unique password
  • Regular Updates: Update password periodically
  • Access Control: Monitor connected devices

Network Isolation​

  • Isolated Network: Hotspot creates separate network
  • No Internet Access: Hotspot does not provide internet
  • Local Communication: Only for OpenHD communication

:::warning Interference WiFi Hotspot operates on 2.4GHz band and may interfere with OpenHD transmission if using the same frequency. Consider using 5.8GHz for OpenHD when using WiFi hotspot. :::

:::info Battery Impact WiFi Hotspot increases power consumption. Monitor battery levels during extended use. :::

Love OpenHD?