What are the available network options to use with EmotiBit?

Listed below are some network options compatible with EmotiBit:

Using a stand-alone router to create isolated network

Pros

• control over network properties and settings
• control over network load and traffic
• access to static IP allocation

Cons

• less portable
• more expensive than other alternatives
• internet access via a stand-alone router requires running an ethernet cable to internet-enabled network

Using a portable router Link to portable router

Pros

• All benefits of the stand alone router + high portability (you can power the router from a USB port on your laptop)

Cons

• signal strength may limit range
• more expensive than other alternatives
• internet access via a stand-alone router requires running an ethernet cable to internet-enabled network

Using a phone hotspot

Pros

• internet access
• high portability
• some control over network settings

Cons

• May require cellular connectivity for creating hotspot
• May offer limited device count
• May not allow broadcast (iPhone) check this FAQ

Using a computer hotspot

Pros

• Windows laptops allow users to create a “Mobile hotspot”, which can be used to connect EmotiBits
• Similarly, Macs allow Internet sharing. However, do note that, when using mac, a hotspot can be created only when an ethernet connection is plugged in. A mac can only “connect to wifi” or “broadcast wifi” at a single instance

Cons

• Needs internet access to create hotspot
• For macOS, you may need an ethernet connection

Create WiFi Hotspot with 3rd party software

Click here for possible options.

Pros

• You do not require any additional hardware (e.g. WiFi adapters) to create a hotspot
• Creates a portable WiFi network

Cons

• It may require some effort to get software setup correctly
• You may require admin privileges to install/run the software if you are using a system provided by a university or institution

USB WiFi dongle 

Click here for possible options.

Pros

• You can also use a USB WiFi dongle in combination with built-in or 3rd party software to create a WiFi hotspot and overcome some limitations of using a single network adapter

Cons

• Different USB WiFi dongles have different capabilities for range, number of devices, settings, etc.

Home (Personal) WiFi

Pros

• Home WiFi works perfectly well if you are a DIY/enthusiast!

Cons

• Less portable
• Other devices on the network may create network congestion

Recommendations:

If you are using EmotiBit in a research setting, we recommend using an affordable router to create your own personal network. This way you can control the network traffic and every other aspect of the network and have fewer issues with connectivity, bandwidth and latency on the network for live-streaming data and time-syncing EmotiBits with your computer!

For hobbyists and enthusiasts, a portable router is a good option if you need network access outside home-WiFi