Wi Fi Range Extender

[slabman]

While I have an aircard working through a wireless router, I'm also looking for a Wi Fi range extender device to use for those CG's offering WiFI, but have the usual low powered signal which is typically unusable. This would be an alternative to the aircard. I'm using both a Windows laptop and an iMac computer.

I'd like to hear from those out there who can offer real-life performance results using some of these devices.

[John Hilley]

It isn't so much the devices that you use, but more how you deploy them. Any WiFi antenna will help, but the connection between the antenna and WiFi device has to be short or you loose everything you gain in cable loss. The best way to get optimum antenna positioning is to locate the WiFi adapter in or near the antenna and use USB to get to the computer. USB has a maximum length of 16 1/2ft or more with an extender. A directional antenna will give you signal gain and interference (other WiFi users) rejection. You want the signal you are receiving to stand out from all the others, either by making it stronger or reducing the affect of other users. Every 3dB of antenna gain doubles the signal strength.

[Meandering Retiree]

I use H Field Wi-Fire. It is supposed to reach up to one quarter mile. I used it in TN at Two Rivers Campground and was able to get a signal from all three of the campgrounds located in that area. I think that it cost less than $100 and is well worth the money. Peace!

[MtManLee]

I bought one of these, "Linksys wireless-N Network Adapter WUSB300N" at walmart and have picked up signals from a block and a half away. It can be plugged into your usb port itself or it has a base with extended cable which I have hung by the window a time or two.

[slabman]

Today I picked up a Lynksys WET54G Ethernet Bridge and a Hawking HSB2 WiFi Signal Booster antenna. I was told I could hook the Hawking antenna cable into the antenna connection of the Lynksys and then, using a network cable, tie the Lynksys output into my existing mobile wireless router. That should deliver a WiFi signal within my coach and we can use our comupters wirelessly. Why won't this work?