USB Adapter + External Antenna = $70 bucks worth of Wifi Improvement??

pjloppez · 02-18-2007, 02:15 PM

I'm planning on getting this USB adapter for around $60
(its a stand alone usb wifi receiver but has the option for antenna)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...DME:B:AAQ:US:1

and adding this 9db external antenna that plugs into the adapter for $13

http://cgi.ebay.com/9db-WiFi-Wi-Fi-B...QQcmdZViewItem

Now....question...
Would this set up improve my wifi reception SIGNIFICANTLY??
or should I just get a regular wifi usb receiver and long usb cord for around $10.

jonessc · 02-18-2007, 07:32 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by pjloppez

I'm planning on getting this USB adapter for around $60
(its a stand alone usb wifi receiver but has the option for antenna)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...DME:B:AAQ:US:1

and adding this 9db external antenna that plugs into the adapter for $13

http://cgi.ebay.com/9db-WiFi-Wi-Fi-B...QQcmdZViewItem

Now....question...
Would this set up improve my wifi reception SIGNIFICANTLY??
or should I just get a regular wifi usb receiver and long usb cord for around $10.

depends on what benefit wifi is going to offer, assuming that aerial is going to be used outside of your car, that would make a difference to the signal you get from your sourse (ie router).

I have to be virtually parked at my front door to connect to my wireless router! im considering buying one as well

pjloppez · 03-07-2007, 09:57 AM

bump....any more opinions??

Wiredwrx · 03-07-2007, 12:55 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by pjloppez

I'm planning on getting this USB adapter for around $60
(its a stand alone usb wifi receiver but has the option for antenna)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...DME:B:AAQ:US:1

and adding this 9db external antenna that plugs into the adapter for $13

http://cgi.ebay.com/9db-WiFi-Wi-Fi-B...QQcmdZViewItem

Now....question...
Would this set up improve my wifi reception SIGNIFICANTLY??
or should I just get a regular wifi usb receiver and long usb cord for around $10.

It is impossible to know what you mean by significantly, and since antenna performance is measured in Db, the improvement will be logarithmic.
Reception is based on MANY FACTORS, and not just antenna performance. There is just TOO much information to crunch.

That being said, and all else being exactly equal, you will have better reception. No way to know if it will be significant.

Michael

BarryWoods · 03-07-2007, 08:10 PM

I used to have one of those radios. They're crap. That antenna isn't really designed to be used outside. If you use it that way be sure to use something like heat shrink on the joint and connector to keep out water.

bes51659 · 03-27-2007, 05:56 AM

This is exactly what I've been looking for! A USB stick with connector for external antenna! (Not that specific antenna)

When the time comes there are a lot of antennas to choose from, and I will take one that fits into my charkfin. (See below)

But:
This you use that specific stick too, Barry? Any good?
Does it work well with WinXP and WZC in SP2?