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ESP32 DW3000 UWB 500m Long-Range Test
Long-range outdoor testing of the ESP32 DW3000 UWB module achieving over 500m distance, with tips on antenna placement, obstacle effects, and optimizing range performance.
Boards:ESP32
Firmware:Arduino
Use Cases:IoT Prototyping
Overview
This how2electronics project documents extensive outdoor range testing of the Makerfabs ESP32 UWB DW3000 module, pushing the UWB communication distance beyond the typical indoor range to over 500 meters in open-air conditions.
Key Findings
- Manufacturer claim: 500m maximum range
- Actual results: Over 600m achieved in open farm/field conditions
- Urban environments: Range reduced significantly by obstacles like trees and poles
- Optimal placement: Anchor and tag should be elevated 4-5 feet above ground for best results
Test Methodology
The project tests the DW3000 module at progressively increasing distances in both urban and open-field environments, documenting signal quality and measurement accuracy at each point.
Hardware
- 2x Makerfabs ESP32 UWB DW3000 modules (MaUWB variant with ESP32 + STM32)
- The module supports up to 8 anchors and 32 tags for multi-device positioning systems
