Really Tiny N-Type with Remote Solar

The completed tiny junction-box node with its N-Type antenna connector

This was a build for a unique situation - the node itself “needed” to use an Alfa antenna, be extremely discreet, and be mounted somewhere the sun didn’t reach.

Parts List

2.5”x2.2”x1.4” junction box
1w USB C Solar Panel
180° USB C Female to Male Adapter
RAK 19003
Ipex/U.fl to N-Type Bulkhead
Drain Plug
PG9 Cable Gland/Passthrough
800mah 503048 LiPo Battery

Inside view of the junction box showing the RAK 19003, battery, and short interconnects packed into the tiny enclosure

Results

It performed fine, although the Alfa continually disappoints in comparison to other antennas. It was installed for 9 months and then the location was no longer needed.

What I’d do different

External view showing the USB-C solar panel passthrough and the drain plug vent on the side of the junction box

Technically I used a PG7 gland which was too tight to easily pass USB-C through, which is why I recommended PG9. Other than that, this build was successful for the use case. If at all possible, I would go with a better antenna, though!