Tom's Hardware > Forum > Wireless Networking > Range & connectivity > Best solution for low signal (USB or PCI)

Best solution for low signal (USB or PCI)

Forum Wireless Networking : Range & connectivity - Best solution for low signal (USB or PCI)

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brucekn_99   05-18-2009 at 05:40:19 AM

I have recently moved my router (Airport Extreme) several rooms away from my computers (i-Mac and PC). The i-Mac is fine and is accessing the 'net with speeds up to 30Mbps (uses wireless-N). However, my PC has a USB adaptor installed (Sabrent 802N), and is seeing low signals which appear to be limiting the network speed to less than 2 Mbps, and sometimes even slower. I have read where poor signal strength can affect speed (at least on a PC).

I may choose to replace the USB adaptor with something that is better in low signal areas. Does anyone have a recommendation?

Thanks, Bruce.

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fihart   05-18-2009 at 10:04:31 AM
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Before you spend money, I would try the basics: raise the router above furniture level, relocate cordless phone base or video sender away from router or computer, add an extension lead to the USB adapter and if possible place it next to the wall nearest the router (there's some reason this helps and it's not just distance).

You should also try different channels -- some frequencies work less well in some environments -- but especially if you can detect neighbouring wifi. Move to a channel 5 stops from strongest neighbour.

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ChrisKitt   05-21-2009 at 09:07:45 PM
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not quite as much information as fihart, but from my experience pci wlan cards are a lot more stable, then usb dongles. Or at least other wireless ways other than usb i believe are better, but are maybe more expensive then usb dongles etc.

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fihart   05-22-2009 at 12:06:26 AM
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I've used both Netgear and really cheap PCI adapters and I would agree that they outperform USB.

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ohiou_grad_06   05-23-2009 at 09:33:52 PM
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Also grab something with a better antennae.

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striker10001   05-29-2009 at 08:54:14 AM
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make a usb cantenna and point towards ur router's direction u'll get a better signal...

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