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Resolved Extending a wireless signal

Discussion in 'Networking (Hardware & Software)' started by MikeD, 2011/04/08.

  1. 2011/04/08
    MikeD

    MikeD Inactive Thread Starter

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    Hi folks, I have a wireless network in my home with a Linksys WRT160n router. I have a building about 150 feet from the router that I would like to get access in, now my netbook can see the network but with only 0-1 bars. I was looking at a EnGenius ERB9250 802.11b/g/n Wireless Range Extender fo $50.00. Plus I can move the router about 20 feet closer if need be. I'd like to get any opinions or other options as I don't know alot about this. Although I do use a password, security is not a major factor because we are way out in the sticks
    Thanks in advance
     
    Last edited: 2011/04/08
  2. 2011/04/08
    Hill

    Hill Inactive

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    Hi,
    I haven't used that particular range extender, but have had good experiences with other makes.
    I would suggest moving the router as close as possible to the building, get the range extender with 1-2 bars and set it up.
    I also have some customer who have had good experiences with internet over power line.
    Good Luck
     
    Hill,
    #2

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  4. 2011/04/09
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    Your best bet would be to run a cat5 from the house to the building. If the building has electric, you can install a second access point or a wired switch.

    Next best thing to do is install a standalone accesss point up in the house attic, as close to the end of the house as possible. Connect it to the existing Linksys using cat5. The access point should have external antennas that can be switched out for better quality antennas.

    Next best thing to do is use a range extenter that has external antennas that can be switched out with larger ones.
     
  5. 2011/04/09
    MikeD

    MikeD Inactive Thread Starter

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    I will look into running cat5 to the far end of the house but we don't have an attic. Could I just mount high on a wall? I'm thinking this option may be too expensive.

    Running cat5 to the building isn't practical for me (too much labor).

    I can buy the repeater for 49.96 from Newegg and upgrade the antenna if necessary. I'll keep you posted on my progress.

    Thanks again
     
  6. 2011/04/09
    TonyT

    TonyT SuperGeek Staff

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    Verify that the antenna can be upgraded. Some such devices have fixed antennas that cannot be swapped.
     
  7. 2011/04/09
    MikeD

    MikeD Inactive Thread Starter

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    Yes it says upgradeable antenna, thanks
     
  8. 2011/04/10
    visionof

    visionof Inactive

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    first of all the wireless extenders are usually a waste of time
    They sound high tech so they impress folks
    Plus I am told that you have to have matching router and extender brands
    First of all make sure that the router is high and not cluttered ( or in a basement for example)
    Its best not to have default channel 6
    Look for a clear channel - the windows wireless utility ( at least in xp will not tell you channel)
    The router scan will , and netstumbler will
    Channels 1 and 11 are distinct non overlapping channels
    Some people say changing to G only as opposed to mix ( on a g router) enhances signal
    A lot of the signal - although its considered line of sight - is bounce around so moving the router over even a foot often helps
    Some people build antennas to focus signal strength with a parabolic antenna

    http://binarywolf.com/249/diy-parabolic-reflector.htm

    http://hacknmod.com/hack/dirt-simple-wi-fi-signal-antenna-booster-for-free/


    http://www.pcworld.com/article/150951/extend_your_wifi_range_with_a_parabolic_reflector.html
    http://www.focus.com/briefs/mobile-wireless/10-tips-increase-wireless-range/

    To my mind the best router is the older WRT54G
    not the newer ones
    with the 3rd party firmware upgrades to boost power

    http://www.polarcloud.com/tomato

    Its now sold as a Linksys WRT54GL - L stands for the Linux OS that runs it
    Newer WRT54G had a different OS and cannot be hacked or upgraded
    ( version 5 and above)

    http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833124190

    more info - http://www.linksysinfo.org/index.php

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linksys_WRT54G_series

    I basically would not waste my money on the extender
     
  9. 2011/04/23
    MikeD

    MikeD Inactive Thread Starter

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    Thanks!

    I ended up moving the router to the other end of the house which is about 50 feet closer to where I wanted service and I can get a good enough signal.
     

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