Dedicated Wifi Card vs. Onboard Mobo Wifi?

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Conor4011

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Feb 18, 2013
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So I am designing a new build and I need my computer to connect to my router which is about 20-30 feet away from the computer.

I would be getting the ASUS Z87 Pro Motherboard: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131979

Now it says it has this built in: WiFi IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n supports dual frequency band 2.4/5 GHz

Would this built in Wifi be as good for connection quality and signal range on the ASUS PCE-N15 Wireless adapter

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833320074

The Adapter says it also has the IEEE 802.11b/g/n but then it goes on to say it has 300/300Mbps Transfer/Receive Rate. My internet is only 35/35 Mbps so obviously it can fully process my speed.


SO, is it worth spending the 26 extra bucks for this Wifi Card? Will it give me any better of a signal from my router or speed and whatnot?
 
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clutchc
Ideally, you'd want to run the Ethernet cable somewhat concealed. Perhaps in the basement ceiling if that is an option, or the attic. Running the cable exposed lying on floors is hazardous both for the cable and the occupants.

If it is impractical to run the Ethernet cable concealed, then by all means go for the wireless connection. But opt for the one you are paying for that comes with the MB. The antenna that comes with it has an extendable cable so you can position the antenna in the strongest signal path.

If the walls are simple drywall & wood stud construction with no inner-wall insulation, the signal should be fine over that distance. The presence of metal lath or foil backed insulation (for example) will sometimes...
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Onboard or outboard...whichever is the cheaper 802.11n. Is there a similar/cheaper version of that motherboard without wifi?
If you're getting that motherboard anyway, try it and see. If it sucks in your environment, maybe look to adding the other one.
Try it and see first.

Performancewise, probably not a lot of difference.

Bur for a 20-30 foot distance, I'd think about the ethernet wire if possible. Less hassle, more speed.
 
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clutchc

clutchc

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I would definitely use the on-board wi-fi. If the router is that close and not blocked by signal killing obstructions, that should be no problem for the on-board wi-fi. The on-board system has a major advantage; a better antenna. And best of all, an antenna you can position to gain the strongest signal strength.

The best solution however, would be to find a way to run an Ethernet cable from router to PC.
 
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Conor4011

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It would be in my best interest to run an Ethernet cable, but this computer is replacing one and we already have another that sits right next to the router. So the cable would have to be 50+ feet to get past a door and through a hallway and then a dining room into the room where the router is. Also what blocks wireless signals because there is probably 2 or 3 drywalls that the signal travels through to get to the wireless computer.

Thanks for the help
 
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clutchc

clutchc

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Ideally, you'd want to run the Ethernet cable somewhat concealed. Perhaps in the basement ceiling if that is an option, or the attic. Running the cable exposed lying on floors is hazardous both for the cable and the occupants.

If it is impractical to run the Ethernet cable concealed, then by all means go for the wireless connection. But opt for the one you are paying for that comes with the MB. The antenna that comes with it has an extendable cable so you can position the antenna in the strongest signal path.

If the walls are simple drywall & wood stud construction with no inner-wall insulation, the signal should be fine over that distance. The presence of metal lath or foil backed insulation (for example) will sometimes deteriorate signal strength. But if you can get a good signal with one of your other wireless devices in the area the PC will sit, you should be fine with the PC's wireless too.
 
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