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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
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.

Battery Impact

WiFi Hotspot increases power consumption. Monitor battery levels during extended use.

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