Desktop - How do I go wireless?

MickKnipfler

I have a desktop PC that I want to use in an outbuilding. I would like to make it wifi enabled to use the wireless router indoors. I have tried a laptop in the outbuilding and can see the router albeit with a weak signal. I therefore need a solution that can operate over a weaker signal.

What's the best option?

Thanks

oldrimes

I've had success getting wireless to longer distance places with USB wireless adaptors that have a cable connection, enabling you to move it the wireless device around until you get the strongest signal (and then bluetack it to the wall!).

I've found the Linksys WUSB54G to be quite good, but I am using it with a Linksys Router, so it may also be dependent on your router. The WUSB54B has a longish (compared to some) cable, and its own little aerial, allowing you to experiment with positioning, without having to move the desktop (which is a pain).

If you could find a connector that has a cable, and can take an external aerial, then you would then have the option of fitting an externial aerial if signal still wasn't great.

I would avoid the cards that fit into your machine that have their own aerial fixed on, as its a pain repositioning your computer to get a good signal, but worth considering one that took an external aerial.

If time isn't a problem, there are a whole load of different ways to improve wireless reception, by building boosters (search for terms - wardriving wireless booster homemade).

MickKnipfler

Thanks,

My router is Netgear

superscaper

If you have mains connection in the outhouse it may be possible to use a home plug system instead of the wireless. http://www.netgear.co.uk/powerline_wallplugged_extenders.php

Sput2001

If your PC has USB 2.0 sockets, the Netgear WG111 wireless adapter might do the trick. You can pick them up for less than £20.

Very easy to set up and it comes with a 1m USB extension cable which gives you some flexibility to experiment with positioning (as described above). You could even get a longer one if needed.

The router and adapter don't necessarily have to be the same make, incidentally.

Gadge_2

have a look on somewhere like https://www.ebay.co.uk for a wifi antenna, I get a wifi link from my FIL house with no problems, just change the antenna over from the small ones that come with your equipment, I think that those antenna are 2dbi gain and you can pick up better off the net

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/7-dBi-Long-Range-WiFi-Antenna-Aerial-Base-2m-cable_W0QQitemZ270028004149QQihZ017QQcategoryZ61816QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem

however when you have the signal strong enough, don't forget to tie it down with WPA and limited DHCP scope and MAC filtering or you will get a herd of PSPs outside surfing on your wifi link!!

MickKnipfler

Thanks guys, I'll do some research. Unfortunately, The outbuildings are on a separate mains supply