USB Wi-Fi adapter with an external antenna connector?

**Dougw133** · 10-23-2009, 06:02 PM

Originally Posted by ahave

I would second the ALFA products. I currently use the AWUS036H and I am more than pleased. I was originally going to mount an external antenna, but found that I get decent range with it being in my trunk.

http://www.data-alliance.net/-strse-...USB/Detail.bok

I third this. I have it and LOVE it! I got a cheap 7dbi roof magnet mount antenna that has a nice long cable that threads right on. They now have released wireless N version which is on Amazon for 49.99!

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg...6LT1N&v=glance

**EvilMonkey** · 10-24-2009, 08:43 PM

http://www.data-alliance.net/-strse-...USB/Detail.bok

oops already mentioned

**nobb** · 10-24-2009, 08:46 PM

If you want something cheap, check out dealextreme. I just bought this one:
http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.25833

Used to get about 30 mbps in my garage with my old wireless n dongle that had no external antenna, now with this dongle and the external antenna, I can get about 240 mbps.

**Dougw133** · 10-24-2009, 09:00 PM

Originally Posted by EvilMonkey

http://www.data-alliance.net/-strse-...USB/Detail.bok

oops already mentioned

Wow didnt realize it went to 1000mw! I gotta get me one! I would go with the Alfa, it's #1 pick amongst "war Drivers" which I dont do, but it's obviously doing a good job. I love mine. I get my home network almost a block away.

**JohnWPB** · 11-15-2009, 02:47 AM

Yep the Alfa 1000mW seems like definitely the way to go! Just reading the reviews is pretty much proof enough.

I found it on Amazon for $39.99

After reading all the reviews, here are some notes:

- The small antenna is far better than the larger one to pick up access points
- It installs its own wireless manager and disables windows built in one (I will not run the installer, I will just install the drivers)
- expect around 1000 to 2000 ft range in open area's
- tech support is non existant, and only done through a Gmail account
- seems that all sales are pretty much final

**Dougw133** · 11-15-2009, 09:45 AM

Thanks for the update John. This is interesting, I am looking to go wirless N in the car now so I have better coms at home. You are saying from what you have read that an external roof mount antenna is not necessary? Mine is magnetic and getting weathered, I am worried about it scratching my roof. Thanks for the update!