PCI vs USB

[ferny111]

Hey guys, just put together an old computer for my brother to do homework and play some flash games on. It is running ubuntu and with the processor overclocked, it's not too shabby for a ten year old computer. Now, my only problem is, there is no onboard wifi and the computer is going to be located 2 floors down from the router in the basement. My question is quite simple; I am looking for a Wireless N receiver, but I do not know if I would get a better connection with a PCI connection, or USB connection. Are there any pros, or cons to either? I have 3PCI slots available and about 5 USB slots available, so neither is an issue, just trying to get it up and running with a strong steady connection, as well as keep it budgeted, let's say $10-30. Thanks in advance

 

[Emerald]

you might have two problems:

1) you might have a problem with signal strength since you need to go through two ceilings

2) Linux drivers could be problem based on which wireless chipset the card is using.

I prefer PCI cards but the USB once come with stronger antennas which should get a better signal


here is a PCI card with 3dB antennas

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833315099


here is a USB card with 5 dB antennas

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833166074

 

[ferny111]

Yeah, I figured I will have to look for compatibility and need to tweak some things within ubuntu, I was just unsure about this as USBs now come with antennas. Personally I prefer the PCI route, but, as of recent, USBs seem to be catching up.