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Netgear Cable/DSL Wireless Router
Product/Link: Netgear Cable/DSL Wireless Router
Synopsis: Walk don't run around your house connected to the Internet via laptop or PDA.
Requirements: Cable or DSL service, Ethernet connector or 2.4 GHz wireless adapter, Windows or Mac OS, IE 5.0 or Netscape 4.7 or higher.
Price: Around $70.00
Rating: Worked better than expected. A usable connection was made through
three walls!
Comment:
What the heck is a wireless router? First we'd better figure out what a router is. If you have two or more computers at home and you don't want to pay a monthly Internet connection fee for each one you probably need a router.
The router is just a box you plug your cable or DSL modem into at one end and then run connecting wires to all your computers. This particular Netgear router also provides a wireless connection which is great for laptops or PDA devices. With all your computers connected via the router everyone can access the Internet at the same time. Even the dog.
Now you might be thinking, isn't that going to slow the system down? Unless someone is hogging the information highway with huge downloads you really don't notice a change in surfing speed with multiple users.
There is a lot of technical stuff surrounding the installation of this product. If there are any hardware incompatibilities or incorrect configuration numbers entered, it's not going to function properly. This is why I hired a local "Computer Doctor" to install mine. It cost about $80.00 but was well worth it in my opinion.
The wireless connection is fun. Your service area will depend on where you locate the base station. Conceivably, you'll be able to access the Net from the bathroom, in front of the TV, while eating dinner in the kitchen or even from outside. My visions of working on the Pocket Website from our picnic table were dashed when I discovered you can't see the laptop screen in bright light. Bummer.
Unless your laptop comes with a wireless adapter built-in you'll have to purchase one and plug it into the side. I bought an Orinoco PC card for about $70.00. It's a wonderful feeling carrying the Net around with you. Enjoy!
PC cards reviewed here.
As you roam around with your laptop you can check your connection status by placing your mouse cursor over the two little computer icons in your system tray. Here's how it functioned in my home:
Excellent signal strength within the second floor family room.
Site of base station.
Very good signal strength in the bedroom next door.
Good signal strength two bedrooms away.
Low signal strength heading farther away.
Very low signal strength downstairs on other side of house.
Signal is lost heading into basement.
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