802.11a Wireless Signal Problems

[Nght]

I have been trying to network my home computer with an existing network in the building next to me. I am currently using the D-Link 802.11a wireless and have been having nothing but a big head-ache . I can connect some times at 34 mb/sec and then other times I will not even have a signal. As far as distance is concerned, I am only 150ft max away from the access point which is in a window that looks at the window I am in next door with only a portion of the corner of the roof in the way. I don't think this is asking to much of the wireless but I guess it must be (so much for 300+ft indoors / 900+ft outdoors).

-Has anyone had similar problems and if so what was the fix?
-Has anyone had problems with D-link but other brands worked?
-Is 802.11a really better than 802.11b?

FYI: I have tried every possible spot in the building for the access point but I am unable to move my computer (ie. to another room)

I just refuse to think that a corner of an asphalt shingle roof is enough to stop the signal

[mbossman2]

I hate intermittent problems.

Step 1: Make sure that both ends of the link are powered up and active.

Step 2: examine the cabling between the NIC and antenna, look for damage or breaks

Step 3 Make sure that you have a clear line of site between

Step 4 Establish the link with the windows open (might have a high metal content in the glass)

Step 5 close each window, one at time.

Step 6 - no ideas

802.11a, because it uses a different frequency range (5gHz), allows for higher data rates and is less susceptible to interference. You do give up some range.

Yes, a coner of an asphalt shingle could be enuf to block the signal if it intersects too much of the signal lobe.

[Nght]

Thanks mbossman2 for the suggestions...

[glc]

A glass window actually is one of the worst things to try to get a wireless signal through. You can extend the range of wireless with external antennas, try www.hyperlinktech.com

[Hosie]

I agree with GLC, an external antenna might be the answer to your problem. I am an installer for a wireless internet service, and using a Cisco Aironet wireless network card and a parabolic grid antenna we have customers as far away as 15 miles from the tower our antennas are on. Obstructions are a key factor. Signal tend to start doing strange things depending on what you are trying to push them thru. try to get the least obstructed path possible. hope this helps.

Joe