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    Mixing Wireless Products

    Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by TheRunaway, Mar 27, 2006.

  1. TheRunaway

    TheRunaway Notebook Consultant

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    I'm setting up a wireless network for a friend tomorrow, but I'm not entirely sure what to get. I need to be able to go through two floors, so I think I'll need a router with good range, probably the Netgear Rangemax router. I don't need the speed of rangemax as much as I need the actual coverage, so if I get a simple wireless g adapter for the computer, will I still get the benefits of the rangemax router's range? I would assume so, since the router is broadcasting the signal, not the adapter, but I just want to make sure they're compatible.
     
    TheRunaway, Mar 27, 2006
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  2. Amber

    Amber Notebook Prophet NBR Reviewer

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    Yes it will on any b/g/super g wireless cards, but if you are having to buy a wireless card, I would probably go with Netgear's WPN511. Of course you can use other wireless cards as long as they are g compatible. I just recommend going with the WPN511 because you'll supposedly get the best coverage with Netgear RangeMax.

    http://www.netgear.com/products/details/WPN511.php

    SG
     
    Amber, Mar 27, 2006
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  3. ZJChaser

    ZJChaser Notebook Consultant

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    having not used the netgears I'd suggest a linksys SRX box. while the range will increase with a regular G card it wont increase as much as using the proper SRX PCI wireless card. try it with the regular wireless card first. If its not enough then get the matching wireless card.
     
    ZJChaser, Mar 27, 2006
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  4. TheRunaway

    TheRunaway Notebook Consultant

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    Thank you for your quick responses.

    Since speed isn't a huge concern, do you think a regular wireless g router would work between floors? I would rather spend half as much for a basic router if it gets the job done. I was thinking of this belkin router
     
    TheRunaway, Mar 27, 2006
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  5. ZJChaser

    ZJChaser Notebook Consultant

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    well if it means anything I only install SRX routers now on my residential jobs and for commercial clients that don't want to spend for Cisco. The range increase is noticeable. I can't say without seeing the situation whether a regular router will or will not work. Only way to know is try.
     
    ZJChaser, Mar 27, 2006
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  6. nickspohn

    nickspohn Notebook Virtuoso NBR Reviewer

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    I'd go with the Linksys Wrt54G. I have this router myself, and i have set it up for numerous people. Its a great router, and you shouldn't have issues going through 2 floors. The one thing that you will need to change is the channel on the router. This will be there when your setting it up through the CD. Just change the channel from 6 to 11 and you should be fine.
    If you still need a stronger signal, try moving it as far as way from all appliances/phones/T.V.'s. etc. Or you can pick up antenas from your local retail store.
     
    nickspohn, Mar 27, 2006
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