I'd like some help in my attempt to phisically disable a wireless module and prevent it from emitting RF, or at least reduce them.
The module in question is part of a gaming console (Playstation 4) and works as a Wi-fi and BT transmitter/receiver.
Neither of them I actually need because I'm using a Lan cable for internet and a wired controller instead of the original wireless BT one.
On the other hand I'd like to reduce RF output from console to minimum because I'm affected by recurrent dermatitis due to proximity RF (iPad and wi-fi computers primarily) and would like not to give up using devices.
The chipset is a Marvell Avastar, soldered on the PCB, with three antenna traces leaving it, two of which lead to integrated Wi-fi antennas (in red), while the third and shorter trace (in blue) leads to a U.FL connector. This U.FL is connected to a cabled BT antenna.
I removed the BT antenna and actually I could notice the original wireless controller now works only within a shorter range (1-2 meters instead of previous 7-10). I don't even know if it means the RF output decreased at all or, as I read somewhere else, I ended up concentrating the output in a closer range, thus making it more harmful.
What could I do next to get a better and definitive result?
Unsoldering the module should be my last resort because I can't know if the console will keep working after that.
I read about:
- Cutting the BT antenna trace as close to the module as possible
- Connecting the antenna trace to ground (to dissipate the current originated by the module?)
- Any other options?
Would be really grateful if any expert could help me out, taking in mind I'm no engineer unfortunately.
Thanks a lot!
Best Answer
I'm rather dubious about how much this will help, but the least intrusive thing to do would be buy some 51 ohm 0603 (I think thsat is the size on your board) surface mount resistors, and connect 3 of them from the stripline to the groundplane. This will absorb the transmitted power quite effectively (not 100% for the two wifi antennas, you need to cut the track on the antenna side). There are already pads in a suitable position for each of the 3 locations you marked.
These are tricky to solder, but not really dificult. If you terminate the striplines cleanly like this, the short lengths of track won't radiate (and the radio won't know its been disabled).
Disabling the module might cause a fault to be detected by software.