WifiDetector
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Design project paints city's WiFi networks with light
We've seen WiFi detectors used for various DIY projects before, but none quite like this rather ambitious project cooked up by Norwegian designers Timo Armall, Jørn Knutsen, and Einar Sneve Martinussen. They built a four-meter long WiFi-detecting rod that boasts 80 LED bulbs and carried it around various neighborhoods in Oslo, picking up signals of various strengths from nearby WiFi networks all the way. That's only the half of it, though. The real kicker is that they also captured the whole thing with long-exposure photographs to effectively paint the "invisible terrain" of WiFi networks with light. Head on past the break for a video, and hit up the source links below for a closer look at the entire process. [Thanks, Christer]
Ask Engadget: Best (useful) WiFi network detector?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget question is coming to us from Mitchell, who couldn't care less if you have a problem with his question. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I just got a new laptop and am looking for a WiFi detector. The catch is that I want one that will tell me if the network it is detecting is open or not. I can't fathom the point of one that doesn't tell you that information. If posted, this will probably generate a lot of snark, but whatever, I just want to be able to find open networks!" You know, we appreciate the honesty here. And we totally feel you. If anyone out there has found a fantastically useful WiFi detector, throw your recommendation(s) in comments below!
WiFi-detector T-shirt turned into a bumper sticker for the roadfaring nerd
We're not sure if an illuminated WiFi-detector window decal is more or less nerdy than the illuminated WiFi-detector T-shirt, but it's certainly cooler. The shirt costs about $20 now, and the mod to take the electroluminescent WiFi signal detector panel, add the necessary power converter and mount it all to the back your car of seems easy enough if you're the type to tinker. Now -- who's going to do this, set up a MiFi, and start charging fellow commuters for access? Video after the break. [Thanks, Jonathan]
WiFi detecting watch finds networks, social isolation
Now that most smartphones worth having sport WiFi, the need for wireless finders has dwindled somewhat, but we'll still give credit to the designers of this WiFi-detecting watch for cleverness. That's not to say we'd ever recommend wearing this fashion disaster -- check out that "WiFi" button on the bezel -- but if you're on a mission to consolidate your gear and you don't mind the mocking laughter of others, £20 ($39) is all it takes.[Via digital-lifestyles]
Animated WiFi detector shirt keeps you single with signal
Life's great priorities -- human interaction and network access -- seem to exist in perpetual tension, but those of you who know exactly where you stand might want to check out this WiFi-detector shirt, which will simultaneously inform passerby that a WiFi network is nearby and that they probably don't need to speak to you. The detachable detector / display combo runs off three AAA batteries for "hours" -- just long enough for you to alienate the locals before heading back to your parents' basement. Scarily enough, it's already out of stock, but ThinkGeek should have more in a couple weeks for $30.[Via jkOnTheRun]
StarTech intros Wi-Fi Detective
While some may be fortunate enough to have the innate ability to sniff out WiFi hotspots, most of us have to rely on decidedly less superhuman means to pick up on a signal. Of course, there's certainly no shortage of tools ready to assist us in that task, but the folks at StarTech.com seem to think there's room for at least one more, recently introducing its self-descriptive Wi-Fi Detective. As with other similar devices, it'll give you an indication of WiFi signal strength, along with some basic information about the network. Also like some other WiFi detectors, the device can double as a USB WiFi adapter for your desktop or laptop (compliant with 802.11b/g), with the USB connection also used to recharge the device's battery. If that sounds like what you've been looking for, you'll be able to snag one of these next month for $75 -- in beige only, it seems.
