Boosting Wireless access

[EDD32]

hi there,
I currently use the netgear wireless router (located on the 2nd floor) and use my laptop usually on ground floor to access the net etc. Now, the strength is very weak and at times I lose the connection if I move around the ground floor.
My question; Is there a way i can increase the strenght so I can use the laptop with better connection strenght throughout the ground floor?
(i.e an access point on 1st floor or watever is available to boost strength)

p.s I'm using netgear PCMCIA wireless card.

thanks

[mbossman2]

before buying new equipment, you may want to try
1) moving the access point around a little on the 2nd floor and 2) rotate the channels a little bit to see if that helps
3) check you client card and access point and see if you are at maximum power output.

if those do not help you have a couple of choices:

1) buying a higher gain omni directional antenna for the access point (that may be the cheapest alternative)

2) buying a 2nd access point for down stairs, but then you have the running cable issue, which is the probably one of the reasons you bought wireless in the 1st place.

[EDD32]

right, I will have a go at the 1st 3 suggestions.
someone just told me there is this Horizon client card that claim that it acheive 1 mile !!!
www.antec-inc.com/pro_details_cooling.php?ProdID=77051
is this worth a consideration ?


thx

[EDD32]

sorry wrong link !


http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicati...1000&CatId=367

[mbossman2]

be careful of huge range claims they usually need to be closely looked at: from reviewing Direct2Data's site (they make the card) it appears that you need both the card and their AP to make this happen:

"In open-field testing, wireless networks using a D2D powered card and a D2D powered wireless access point provide a range of up to one mile, compared to the more expensive leading enterprise brand which delivers an open-field range of up to 1500 feet."

Plus, I am not sure that they (D2D) can meet the ETSI standards that apply in the UK.

[mouse1]

You might want to check out Tech TV's Screensavers build your own wifi cantenna----

[glc]

The cantenna is too directional for this particular situation - an omni antenna will be your best bet unless the laptop is used only in a single location in the house.

[EDD32]

thx ppl for ur thoughts...i will keep u posted of wat happens...