Wifi Satellite #34C3
Source: hackaday.io
This project creates a 'WiFi Satellite' by assembling 14 custom ESP32 WROVER-based boards (WiFi Packet Monitor V3) onto a 3D-printed structure. Each board is flashed with PacketMonitor32 software to monitor and log traffic from a specific 2.4GHz WiFi channel onto an SD card. The aim was to build a cheaper, open-source alternative to the Wi-Fi Cactus for monitoring all 14 2.4GHz channels.
Categorisation
Stage 3: Architect (11-13+)Algorithmic & Procedural ThinkingSystemic & Design ThinkingScreen-Assisted / HybridUnplugged / Paper-BasedCoding ActivityArts & Crafts
Props & Materials Required
- •14x WiFi Packet Monitor V3 boards (ESP32 WROVER with OLED, SD card slot, LiPo charger)
- •1x Ø 1cm stick
- •7x 3D printed Piece A
- •14x 3D printed Piece B
- •1x 3D printed Base
- •14x Micro SD cards (e.g., 16GB SanDisk)
- •14x USB cables
- •2x 7-port USB hubs
- •3D printer (for custom parts)
- •PacketMonitor32 software (from GitHub)
- •Power supply for USB hubs
Why It Works & Notes
Parent Note:
Participants will learn about WiFi communication protocols, spectrum analysis, microcontroller programming (ESP32), embedded systems integration (OLED, SD card), 3D design and fabrication, basic electronics assembly, and power management considerations for multi-device setups.