Internal vs. External Wireless

[NigelMcD]

Hey great site, lots of info but I was wondering if anyone could help me with this question\issue.

I spend a fair amount of time connected to wireless networks in hotels when away on customer sites, of course the reception is not always that great so my question is:

Would I get a more reliable (speed not that much of an issue) connection if I used an external (USB or PC Card) wireless adapter instead of the in built Broadcom 802.11a/b/g adapter. The laptop is a HP NX6325.

Any recommendations on possible adapters would be much appreciated.

 

[thiggins]

You might try using a USB adapter like the Engenius EUB-362, which has slightly higher power and the ability to use a higher-gain antenna.

Or something like the WiFi Link U-Tenna, basically a high-gain directional panel antenna with an embedded 802.11g adapter.

 

[NigelMcD]

Thanks,

Your review of the EUB-362 does seem to backup my feeling that there is no easy answer.

Fancy antennas rather then higher power does look more useful but I think the price of (and size) of some of the units are prohibitive for the usage that I am after.

 

[tipstir]

Has the buffalo WLI-CB-G54HP PCMICA card ever been tested? I never had issues with that High Power Wireless G Card always a strong signal with it.

 

[thiggins]

Has the buffalo WLI-CB-G54HP PCMICA card ever been tested? I never had issues with that High Power Wireless G Card always a strong signal with it.

Not by itself, but as part of this review.