Do I understand this correctly?

[Preskitt.man]

In 06/14, Merlin introduced the 374.43_2 build. Subsequent builds from Merlin introduced potential distance issues for users due to new restrictions in firmware related to power output of the router.

As a response to this, a fork from 37.43_2 was introduced in 09/14 that while not introducing some of the new features of the Merlin ASUS builds, it does contain bug fixes and minor enhancements while retaining the power features of earlier builds.

Even switching to the ASUS stock builds subsequent to this same time period would not avoid the power/distance issues.

Other router vendors products would likely have similar power issues in their newer firmware builds.

Dave

 

[Deleted member 22229]

In 06/14, Merlin introduced the 374.43_2 build. Subsequent builds from Merlin introduced potential distance issues for users due to new restrictions in firmware related to power output of the router.

As a response to this, a fork from 37.43_2 was introduced in 09/14 that while not introducing some of the new features of the Merlin ASUS builds, it does contain bug fixes and minor enhancements while retaining the power features of earlier builds.

Even switching to the ASUS stock builds subsequent to this same time period would not avoid the power/distance issues.

Other router vendors products would likely have similar power issues in their newer firmware builds.

Dave

I believe the power issues are primarily with the RT-N66 that started way back when Asus switched from the SDK5 driver to the SDK6 and was further reduced again with the 376.xxx branch firmwares. If you have a RT-N66U i think right now your best bet would be to go with the Merlin fork by John 374.43_2 Ver 5 Works very well with the N66

 

[Preskitt.man]

I have the AC68U router. I had earlier gone with the newer builds and had observed distance issue in the family room & kitchen. I subsequently installed the fork and again set the Tx power to 100 and found the distance issue was mitigated. At the same time, there are some features in the newer builds that I liked & do miss.

 

[Deleted member 22229]

I have the AC68U router. I had earlier gone with the newer builds and had observed distance issue in the family room & kitchen. I subsequently installed the fork and again set the Tx power to 100 and found the distance issue was mitigated. At the same time, there are some features in the newer builds that I liked & do miss.

I think what Asus did because of new FCC regulations all there new 376 builds are capped at 80mw output even with the TX power slider set at 100%. I didnt notice much difference with my 68U but noticed a big difference with my 66U. Either way the fork is probably the best bet if you want more power out.

If you want to play around with your power and region settings on your 68U check out the thread below.

http://forums.smallnetbuilder.com/showthread.php?t=19262