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damien666
05-01-2002, 08:41 AM
Hi everyone

I was doing a wireless setup for some family friends this past weekend. They purchased the Linksys EtherFast Wireless AP + Cable/Dsl router with 4 port switch (BEFW11S4) and a Linksys Instant Wireless Network Adapter for their laptop (WPC11). For reference, the laptop is running XP Home. So, I get through the setup and everything is running fine. Strong signal obviously when right next to the AP. Well, when they take the laptop into their study, which is across the house, the signal gets extremely weak (most likely because of all the walls). I've tried repositioning the AP to have a more direct path but the signal still fades in and out. My question to all of you intelligent people, is what can I do to amplify the signal from the Access Point. I guess I could pick up a second Access Point and strategically position them, but I was also wondering what my other options are. Thank you much!
spigidygak
05-01-2002, 09:41 AM
You can get a booster which I probably might have to get myself.
http://www.orinocowireless.com/template.html?section=m56&envelope=93&page=110

http://www.hyperlinktech.com/

However, I think there is something up with XP and 802.11b setups. I just installed XP pro on my sister's comp and the range just blows now. Still trying to figure out what it could be.
damien666
05-01-2002, 10:08 AM
Thanks for providing those links for the boosters. I'll definitely have to look into that. Another question remains...for example, if I wanted to purchase an external antenna from Orinoco, would it see a signal from a Linksys wireless AP? Thanks again
Jeffbx
05-01-2002, 10:17 AM
Yes. Antennas are antennas - as long as there's a place on the WAP to plug it in, you can mix vendors. Check on ebay for an omnidirectional antenna - MUCH cheaper than buying new.

Also look for obvious sources of interference - 2.4GHz cordless phones will kill a wireless connection, as will some microwave ovens (when they are running).
seqiro
05-02-2002, 02:00 PM
A friend of mine had the same problem with the Linksys wireless network adapter. After some research, he found other people who had the same problem recommended switching to a NetGear adapter, which he did and the problem went away.

Hope you find a solution!