Thursday, March 14, 2013
Netgear WN2000RPT Universal WiFi Range Extender - Refurbished
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Canon PowerShot SX260 HS 12.1 MP CMOS Digital Camera with 20x Image Stabilized Zoom 25mm Wide-Angle Lens and 1080p Full-HD Video (Black)
The Canon 5900B100 PowerShot SX260 HS 12.1 MP Compact Digital Camera, in black, is an ultra-slim camera with a powerful 20x Optical Zoom, Optical Image Stabilization and 25mm Wide-Angle lens but that is only the beginning of its attractions. You will see detail you never thought possible through the huge zoom and wide-angle lens, while the camera's 12.1 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor deliver the rich, clear low-light performance that is the hallmark of Canon's HS SYSTEM. Full 1080p HD video in stereo is more beautiful than ever, with new high-resolution, high-speed processing. Sophisticated advancements include improved Smart AUTO that optimizes settings for 58 predefined shooting situations, Face ID that prioritizes pre-registered faces, and GPS for tracking and recording your shooting locations.Memory Card Type: SD, SDHC,SDXC.
TP-LINK TL-WN722N Wireless N150 High Gain USB Adapter,150Mbps, w/4 dBi High Gain Detachable Antenna, IEEE 802.1b/g/n, WEP, WPA/WPA2
----------------------------------------------------------
UPDATED: January 23, 2012 (Update section below)
----------------------------------------------------------
Installed January 14, 2011 and still excellent. I expect this thing to last at least until December 21 this year, when of course the Mayans have scheduled the world for demolition. :P
Here's my take on the TP-Link TL-WN722N Wireless USB Adapter:
-------------
POSITIVES:
-------------
** It really, really works like mad. ** I get constant download speeds of 12Mbps+, which is close the the max of my internet bandwidth.
- It's very cheap cost-wise for the great performance it gives you
- It's small(ish), though it will look big connected to your laptop
- Comes with a 3' USB extension cable which I definitely recommend using. It helps position the device, and keeps it from crowding your laptop or from being destroyed by being knocked out of your PC's front USB port.
- Has a diffused green LED under the white plastic to let you know it's working, instead of the blinding blue LEDs that everyone uses these days. The light turns off when it's not powered (like when you hit Standby on your PC). NOTE: It's still annoying in a dark room when I'm trying to sleep, but a few post-it notes helps that.
- The software is relatively simple to install and use, and allows you to use other products to manage your WiFi instead.
- The current driver, software, and documents come on a mini CD and are all up to date with what's available on TP-Link's web site
- The documentation is good, but it could use some more detail.
----------------------
MINOR NEGATIVES:
----------------------
- The TP-LINK Wireless Client Utility is functional but could be more intuitive. A configuration "wizard" would be a good improvement for manual configs. (It has been updated as of Jan 5, 2012 - see below)
- Manual configuration (which you need if your network is securely hidden and requires a pass code) isn't well-documented, though you will be able to get it to work with the document, and maybe a little trial and error. If your setup is totally open security-wise (this would be BAD), you will have no problem with the software.
- Even if the driver is installed incorrectly, the client utility may report enough information to make you think it is installed. When in doubt, do a complete removal of the software and drivers and re-install.
- The QSS software that comes with the device is ONLY usable with other TP-Link products. Don't bother installing it unless you have a TP-Link Router/Access Point that has QSS built in. (As of the client update on Jan. 5, 2012, it appears to be installed automatically)
------------------------
UPDATED 01-23-2012
------------------------
- I've kept track, and this device has worked well even with interference from Coronal Mass Ejections from the sun (sunspot activity), though I have noticed that the performance decreases (could be other things along that long internet path, as well).
- I now have a TP-Link TL-WA901ND 2.0 Access Point, which this device works well with. Unfortunately is does NOT connect at the advertised "150Mbps" potential speed when it's configured to do so, but I never really expected it to. My max internet connection of 13Mbps is far below that high rating, anyway.
- The latest WiFi utility for this device is up on TP-Link's web site as of Jan. 5, 2012, and I'm a bit disappointed with it. On the plus side, it is probably simpler to use - which is a good thing for most users, but it's been dumbed down to remove all of the extra connection info power users like me appreciate. The message windows are also annoying and the English grammar is sometimes embarrassingly wrong. It also looks a bit cheesy compared to the previous utility version. At least it works well.
- It is difficult to tell if the actual hardware drivers have been updated, because software info on the page for this device is really incomplete. It looks like they are not updated since I originally posted this review.
- I still benefit from disconnecting and reconnecting the device once in a great while, but the problem that causes the lowered performance could be my PC, the access point, or electromagnetic interference. Hard to say.
- To date, 4 people were helpless in the face of my review - maybe it put them to sleep. Thanks very much to everyone who took the time to click "Yes".
-----------------------------
My installation experience
-----------------------------
A friend of mine needed a WiFi adapter since she moved to a location that wasn't wired, so I recommended this to her based on the great reviews it's received. She successfully and easily installed this device on her work laptop, and was extremely impressed with it's ability to drag a much better signal out of the almost inaccessible 802.11n WiFi router located down stairs, the signal of which is blocked by many walls and turns.
She also needed to install the device on her personal PC. Unfortunately we spent hours over chat trying to get it installed and working, and FINALLY got it done after completely removing the software and drivers that she had installed, and then reinstalling those drivers with my guidance. It was only at this point that she said, "Oh yeah, I kind of passed over that part" where XP asks for confirmation to install an unsigned driver. AHHHHHHH! Well, now it works. :) The signal is not fantastic, but it's 4 times better than it used to be (for her laptop) and is good enough for her PC. It definitely works. So one lesson for you is: Please do yourself a favor, and let your operating system install the driver properly. ;)
The night I helped my friend with her WiFi, I received and installed my own TL-WN722N adapter, to help her through the install process and to replace the D-Link 4300 router I was using as a WiFi receiver (firmware v1.8 has bridging).
After installing this little thing and adjusting the antenna, I got download speeds almost twice as fast as before to the aging Linksys 802.11b-only wifi router downstairs. I then spent some time replacing that Linksys device with the D-Link 4300, turned on Super-G, and got almost 13Mbit down and 1.7Mbit up, which is more than four times what I was getting before on download and upload. The download speed varies between 8Mb-12Mb - it probably hits 12mb because of Super-G infringing on other people's signal space :P - but the upload speed has been really constant at 1.7Mb or so since I installed it, even to the Linksys router. The download speed is almost as good as I can get by plugging in a 75' network cable directly to the router.
So this little thing really rocks!
FYI, DSL Reports has an excellent set of speed reporting tools, as well as info on increasing network equipment and WiFi performance. Check it out! I'd enter a link, but Amazon would probably only delete it.
That's it, another novel for my reviews. I'll update this over time if anything new happens...
UPDATED: January 23, 2012 (Update section below)
----------------------------------------------------------
Installed January 14, 2011 and still excellent. I expect this thing to last at least until December 21 this year, when of course the Mayans have scheduled the world for demolition. :P
Here's my take on the TP-Link TL-WN722N Wireless USB Adapter:
-------------
POSITIVES:
-------------
** It really, really works like mad. ** I get constant download speeds of 12Mbps+, which is close the the max of my internet bandwidth.
- It's very cheap cost-wise for the great performance it gives you
- It's small(ish), though it will look big connected to your laptop
- Comes with a 3' USB extension cable which I definitely recommend using. It helps position the device, and keeps it from crowding your laptop or from being destroyed by being knocked out of your PC's front USB port.
- Has a diffused green LED under the white plastic to let you know it's working, instead of the blinding blue LEDs that everyone uses these days. The light turns off when it's not powered (like when you hit Standby on your PC). NOTE: It's still annoying in a dark room when I'm trying to sleep, but a few post-it notes helps that.
- The software is relatively simple to install and use, and allows you to use other products to manage your WiFi instead.
- The current driver, software, and documents come on a mini CD and are all up to date with what's available on TP-Link's web site
- The documentation is good, but it could use some more detail.
----------------------
MINOR NEGATIVES:
----------------------
- The TP-LINK Wireless Client Utility is functional but could be more intuitive. A configuration "wizard" would be a good improvement for manual configs. (It has been updated as of Jan 5, 2012 - see below)
- Manual configuration (which you need if your network is securely hidden and requires a pass code) isn't well-documented, though you will be able to get it to work with the document, and maybe a little trial and error. If your setup is totally open security-wise (this would be BAD), you will have no problem with the software.
- Even if the driver is installed incorrectly, the client utility may report enough information to make you think it is installed. When in doubt, do a complete removal of the software and drivers and re-install.
- The QSS software that comes with the device is ONLY usable with other TP-Link products. Don't bother installing it unless you have a TP-Link Router/Access Point that has QSS built in. (As of the client update on Jan. 5, 2012, it appears to be installed automatically)
------------------------
UPDATED 01-23-2012
------------------------
- I've kept track, and this device has worked well even with interference from Coronal Mass Ejections from the sun (sunspot activity), though I have noticed that the performance decreases (could be other things along that long internet path, as well).
- I now have a TP-Link TL-WA901ND 2.0 Access Point, which this device works well with. Unfortunately is does NOT connect at the advertised "150Mbps" potential speed when it's configured to do so, but I never really expected it to. My max internet connection of 13Mbps is far below that high rating, anyway.
- The latest WiFi utility for this device is up on TP-Link's web site as of Jan. 5, 2012, and I'm a bit disappointed with it. On the plus side, it is probably simpler to use - which is a good thing for most users, but it's been dumbed down to remove all of the extra connection info power users like me appreciate. The message windows are also annoying and the English grammar is sometimes embarrassingly wrong. It also looks a bit cheesy compared to the previous utility version. At least it works well.
- It is difficult to tell if the actual hardware drivers have been updated, because software info on the page for this device is really incomplete. It looks like they are not updated since I originally posted this review.
- I still benefit from disconnecting and reconnecting the device once in a great while, but the problem that causes the lowered performance could be my PC, the access point, or electromagnetic interference. Hard to say.
- To date, 4 people were helpless in the face of my review - maybe it put them to sleep. Thanks very much to everyone who took the time to click "Yes".
-----------------------------
My installation experience
-----------------------------
A friend of mine needed a WiFi adapter since she moved to a location that wasn't wired, so I recommended this to her based on the great reviews it's received. She successfully and easily installed this device on her work laptop, and was extremely impressed with it's ability to drag a much better signal out of the almost inaccessible 802.11n WiFi router located down stairs, the signal of which is blocked by many walls and turns.
She also needed to install the device on her personal PC. Unfortunately we spent hours over chat trying to get it installed and working, and FINALLY got it done after completely removing the software and drivers that she had installed, and then reinstalling those drivers with my guidance. It was only at this point that she said, "Oh yeah, I kind of passed over that part" where XP asks for confirmation to install an unsigned driver. AHHHHHHH! Well, now it works. :) The signal is not fantastic, but it's 4 times better than it used to be (for her laptop) and is good enough for her PC. It definitely works. So one lesson for you is: Please do yourself a favor, and let your operating system install the driver properly. ;)
The night I helped my friend with her WiFi, I received and installed my own TL-WN722N adapter, to help her through the install process and to replace the D-Link 4300 router I was using as a WiFi receiver (firmware v1.8 has bridging).
After installing this little thing and adjusting the antenna, I got download speeds almost twice as fast as before to the aging Linksys 802.11b-only wifi router downstairs. I then spent some time replacing that Linksys device with the D-Link 4300, turned on Super-G, and got almost 13Mbit down and 1.7Mbit up, which is more than four times what I was getting before on download and upload. The download speed varies between 8Mb-12Mb - it probably hits 12mb because of Super-G infringing on other people's signal space :P - but the upload speed has been really constant at 1.7Mb or so since I installed it, even to the Linksys router. The download speed is almost as good as I can get by plugging in a 75' network cable directly to the router.
So this little thing really rocks!
FYI, DSL Reports has an excellent set of speed reporting tools, as well as info on increasing network equipment and WiFi performance. Check it out! I'd enter a link, but Amazon would probably only delete it.
That's it, another novel for my reviews. I'll update this over time if anything new happens...
Product Description
TP-Link TL-WN722N 150Mbps High Gain Wireless USB Adapter
Features
- 150Mbps wireless transmission rate
- Provides two methods of operation: Infrastructure and Ad-Hoc
- Quick Secure Setup, complies with WPS for worry free wireless security Supports 64/128-bit WEP
- 4dBi omni-directional antenna detachable Supports Windows 2000, Windows XP (32/64-bit), Windows Vista (32/64-bit), and Windows 7 (32/64-bit).
- Seamlessly compatible with 802.11b/g/n devices
Anker® Compact Wireless-N Wi-Fi Repeater Access Point Range Extender 300Mbps (also Works as a Mini Router)
great product'my experience, if you have any problem installing with cabel, be sure to change the ip adress fixed to 192.168.10.1, your computer's ip adress must to be 192.168.10.X'2~255)
Product Description
4-in-1 Wireless SolutionA versatile 4-in-1 wireless solution, this Anker product that can function as a Router, Repeater, Bridge or Client to serve your unique networking needs. Its compact design delivers reliable and lightning-fast transfer speeds up to 300Mbps so that you can open up the far corners of your home and office - or even your hotel when you're on the go.With such a comprehensive solution, it's never been easier to connect to the wireless web.RouterCreates a new wireless network from a cabled connection to your modem or router.RepeaterEliminates dead zones and expands wireless coverage by detecting and boosting the existing Wi-Fi signals of your home or office wireless network.BridgeCreates a new wireless network from an active cabled Internet connection. An ideal travel solution to create a personal Wi-Fi network from a hotel Ethernet connection.ClientServes as a wireless adapter to connect non-Wi-fi devices - such as game consoles, desktops, and set-top boxes - to the wireless web.Please Note for Your Repeater Mode Configuration:To achieve best performance, you may move your Anker device to different locations according to your need. We suggest you make sure the wireless router signal which the repeater receives is strong (ideally around 80%). Please refer to FAQ Manual 4.2 for detailed information.SpecificationsFrequency Band: 2.4 GHzWireless Speed: 300Mbps (Rx), 300Mbps (Tx)Wireless Standard: IEEE 802.11 b/g/nWireless Security: WEP, WPA, WPA2, WPA Mixed, WPSAntennas: 2x Built-in AntennasPorts: 1 x RJ-45 10/100 LAN portsWarranty & Support : 18 months, limited; 24/7 email supportPackage Includes1 compact Wi-Fi repeater with input 110-240V, 1 ethernet cable, 1 quick installation guide
Features
- Versatile applications - functions as a mini Wi-Fi Router, Repeater, or Bridge for areas with absent or weak Wi-Fi signals. In Client mode, this device also acts as a wireless adapter to allow Ethernet-only devices receive Wi-Fi signals.
- Simple one-switch control - Easily shift between modes with the simple side-panel switch.
- Easy setup - User-friendly setup interface makes device configuration a snap.
- Compact design - Portable size with 2 built-in antennas make this a powerful yet discreet wireless solution.
- WPS - Conveniently establish secure connections with the press of a button.
Amped Wireless High Power Wireless-N Smart Repeater and Range Extender (SR300)
I have a large house with dead spots and I've spent hours doing research online and trying out all the top repeaters i could find. From the HAWKING Repeater (HWREN1), to the NETGEAR (3000 something) and most recently the LINKSYS (RE1000) and ended up returning all three of them (reliability issues - had to reboot the Hawking and Netgear ones constantly and setup/support was horrible). The Linksys one was easier to setup but did not give me the range i needed and i also couldn't tell what network i was connected to. The range wasn't good so i wasn't sure if i was still connected to the repeater or my home router. Either way all three went back. Btw I also talked to the support departments of a few of these companies and it was very hard to understand the techs and they kept on telling me it was my router that was the problem. Absolutely no help and very frustrating!
Finally I tried this Amped repeater and i wish i did so from the start. The set up is far easier than all of those and has MUCH MUCH more range. The fact that it has two external antennas, which the Amped techs told me i could detach and upgrade if i wanted, already gave me the feeling it would do better from the start. As far as setup goes, I just ran through the setup wizard in less than 5 minutes was up and running. Speedtest speeds went from 2mbps to 15mbps and i have coverage throughout my ENTIRE house. love it when a product works as advertised (especially a computer product)
Last thing i want to mention is their support department. Its very refreshing to be able to speak to techs that know their product and also work in america. The tech i talked to (i think his name is Tony) was very helpful and very well versed) He explained how amplifiers work and antennas etc... which is why the range was better on the Amped units. Thank you Amped!
Finally I tried this Amped repeater and i wish i did so from the start. The set up is far easier than all of those and has MUCH MUCH more range. The fact that it has two external antennas, which the Amped techs told me i could detach and upgrade if i wanted, already gave me the feeling it would do better from the start. As far as setup goes, I just ran through the setup wizard in less than 5 minutes was up and running. Speedtest speeds went from 2mbps to 15mbps and i have coverage throughout my ENTIRE house. love it when a product works as advertised (especially a computer product)
Last thing i want to mention is their support department. Its very refreshing to be able to speak to techs that know their product and also work in america. The tech i talked to (i think his name is Tony) was very helpful and very well versed) He explained how amplifiers work and antennas etc... which is why the range was better on the Amped units. Thank you Amped!
Product Description
The Amped Wireless High Power Wireless-300N Smart Repeater expands the range of your 802.11b/g/n wireless network by repeating the signal from your home or office wireless router and redistributing it in a new "extended" location. Computers, game consoles, networked Blu-ray players, televisions and other networked devices can then connect to the Smart Repeater using Wi-Fi or a wired connection (up to 5 ports available) to access the extended network. The Smart Repeater eliminates wireless dead zones, extends wireless and wired network coverage, and is compatible with most brands of models of 2.4GHz 802.11b/g/n wireless routers.
Features
- Adds wired connections for A/V devices and PCs
- Universal: Works with most Wi-Fi routers
- Easy to Install: Scan, Select and Connect
- High speed Wireless-300N is great for video streaming and high traffic networks
Netgear Universal Dual Band Wi-Fi Range Extender - Wall-Plug Edition (WN3500RP-100NAS)
I am a Taskrabbit and someone needed assistance with Wifi coverage in their home, they had great coverage downstairs but when u go upstairs to the second floor, the whole 2nd floor was a dead spot, so I purchased this Netgear range extender, SUPER EASY to hook up, you just plug it in to the outlet push the WPS button on both the router and the Extender and it's hooked up, it copies the wifi Key from the router so all you gotta do is change the wireless connection on your personal device to connect to the extender and it works like a charm, the speed is super fast on the 5GHZ channel, I HIGHLY recommend this device to all that need extra coverage in the home or business and there are no wires to attach to anything so it's a clean setup, it even comes with the option to slide the plug off the device and put a power cord in the device, such a great price. I have had many Routers and extenders and this is the best Extender I ever purchased. BUY THIS!!
Product Description
The NETGEAR Universal Dual Band Wi-Fi Range Extender, Wall-plug Edition extends dual band WiFi coverage and works with any standard WiFi router or gateway.
Features
- Using the NETGEAR genie App (DLNA) you can stream music to speakers or audio systems and wirelessly print to USB printers connected to the WiFi extender.
- Finds best location for optimal wireless coverage with dynamic LED indicators
- Connects one wired device wirelessly
- Connect iPad, smartphones, and more
- CD-Less installation
Edimax EW-7438RPn 300Mbps Wireless 802.11/b/g/n Universal Wi-Fi Range Extender (EW-7438RPn)
I live in a three level home and my wireless router is on the bottom floor. Having the wifi extender allows the signal to reach the top floor. We can now use our laptops anywhere in the house. Using the wifi connection for our smartphones is a big help as well. No complaints from me.
Product Description
The Edimax EW-7438RPn N300 Universal Wi-Fi Extender can easily double the signal coverage of your Wi-Fi network for better Wi-Fi quality in homes with many rooms or multiple floors. Integrated with a power adapter, the compact EW-7438RPn can be plugged directly into an electrical outlet. Equipped with a smart iQ setup and a signal strength indicating LED light, EW-7438RPn can be setup at the right spot where the Wi-Fi signals need strengthening. It can be installed with all existing wireless networks to create an extended network with data transmission rates of up to 300Mbps. With a simple installation of Edimax EW-7438RPn Range Extender, you can enjoy high-speed wireless networking throughout your home or office instantly. Double the Coverage of Your Wi-Fi with Ease The Edimax EW-7438RPn features an iQ Setup automatically detects the available Wi-Fi networks nearby and helps you establish a connection within seconds. And It is designed with a signal strength LED, which helps you find the best setup location for optimal Wi-Fi coverage. Compact, Wall Plug Design \Edimax EW-7438RPn is compact with a built-in power adapter. This design allows you to plug it directly into an electrical outlet, eliminating the need for an additional power cable. You can easily install it where your Wi-Fi signal needs enhancement and enjoy high-speed wireless performance without any hassles. Wireless 802.11n Standard (data rates up to 300Mbps) The latest 802.11n technology is built into the EW-7438RPn to broaden its wireless coverage and to eliminate dead spots within the wireless range. The EW-7438RPn complies with wireless 802.11b/g/n standards and can reach data transmission rates of up to 300Mbps when connected to wireless 802.11n devices. It provides faster and more reliable wireless connections than standard 802.11b/g wireless networks.
Features
- Extends the signal coverage of existing 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi networks
- iQ-Setup unique feature for hassle free installation and configuration
- With signal strength LED to finds best setup location for optimal Wi-Fi coverage
- Built-In wall plug integrated design, directly plug it into wall outlet to use
- Automatically detects the best signal Wi-Fi network nearby to setup connection
- Features a hardware WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) button for easy configuration
Amped Wireless High Power 1000mW Wi-Fi Signal Booster (SB1000)
I thought I'd write this review so hopefully I can save others some headaches if they happen to have Verizon Fios (internet and TV) and are stuck with Verizon's provided router, Actiontec M1424-WR. If you have both Verizon internet and TV, you more or less need to be a some sort of professional networking guy to figure how to replace or hook up a repeater or whatever is to get more wifi signal around the house. I don't care to deal with hours of headaches and learn a new profession, I'm already good at other things. I wanted an easy fix for this problem.
Amped Wireless High Power Wi-Fi Signal Booster took less than a minute to install. It gave me about 3 bars of signal on my iPhone in my office and 2 bars in the backyard, where I did not get any signal at all. I also used a freeware program called iStumbler to check the wifi signal for an increase. In my office next to the kitchen, where I would get a signal strength of 30% (and repeatedly dropped connections), I had an increase at exactly 70% without no dropped connections.
I also tried the Hawking HiGain Signal Booster version 2 - HSB2 from Amazon, which made a really irritating high-pitched sound. Wife and I could not live with that. So for around $20 more, this device was well worth it. This Amped Wireless antenna gave more signal strength than the Hawkings booster with NO NOISE.
Also note that wifi signals can change drastically from where the antenna is positioned. You need it as high as possible, above furniture. Things like refrigerators or TV's can effect the signal.
Hopefully this antenna will work for you. It did exactly what we needed it to do for us. I spent hours trying to find a solution online. All I found were tech advice which was way over my head.
Amped Wireless High Power Wi-Fi Signal Booster took less than a minute to install. It gave me about 3 bars of signal on my iPhone in my office and 2 bars in the backyard, where I did not get any signal at all. I also used a freeware program called iStumbler to check the wifi signal for an increase. In my office next to the kitchen, where I would get a signal strength of 30% (and repeatedly dropped connections), I had an increase at exactly 70% without no dropped connections.
I also tried the Hawking HiGain Signal Booster version 2 - HSB2 from Amazon, which made a really irritating high-pitched sound. Wife and I could not live with that. So for around $20 more, this device was well worth it. This Amped Wireless antenna gave more signal strength than the Hawkings booster with NO NOISE.
Also note that wifi signals can change drastically from where the antenna is positioned. You need it as high as possible, above furniture. Things like refrigerators or TV's can effect the signal.
Hopefully this antenna will work for you. It did exactly what we needed it to do for us. I spent hours trying to find a solution online. All I found were tech advice which was way over my head.
Product Description
The Amped Wireless High Power 1000mW Wi-Fi Signal Booster amplifies the signal strength of your certified Wi-Fi device to deliver more wireless range and performance. Typical wireless routers, access points and adapters have wireless output powers of less than 50mW. The SB1000 replaces the removable antenna on your certified Wi-Fi device to boost the signal strength by as much as 20 times, to a staggering 1000mW of wireless power. The high gain omni-directional antenna transmits the boosted signal in a 360 degree radius to cover your entire home or office with strong Wi-Fi coverage.
Features
- 20X the Power: Get more range for your wireless network
- Boosts Wi-Fi range and speed in all directions
- Plug and Play: Replaces the antenna on your certified* Wi-Fi device
- Works with certified* 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi devices*see product notices below
Amped Wireless High Power 1000mW Wi-Fi Signal Booster (SB1000)
I thought I'd write this review so hopefully I can save others some headaches if they happen to have Verizon Fios (internet and TV) and are stuck with Verizon's provided router, Actiontec M1424-WR. If you have both Verizon internet and TV, you more or less need to be a some sort of professional networking guy to figure how to replace or hook up a repeater or whatever is to get more wifi signal around the house. I don't care to deal with hours of headaches and learn a new profession, I'm already good at other things. I wanted an easy fix for this problem.
Amped Wireless High Power Wi-Fi Signal Booster took less than a minute to install. It gave me about 3 bars of signal on my iPhone in my office and 2 bars in the backyard, where I did not get any signal at all. I also used a freeware program called iStumbler to check the wifi signal for an increase. In my office next to the kitchen, where I would get a signal strength of 30% (and repeatedly dropped connections), I had an increase at exactly 70% without no dropped connections.
I also tried the Hawking HiGain Signal Booster version 2 - HSB2 from Amazon, which made a really irritating high-pitched sound. Wife and I could not live with that. So for around $20 more, this device was well worth it. This Amped Wireless antenna gave more signal strength than the Hawkings booster with NO NOISE.
Also note that wifi signals can change drastically from where the antenna is positioned. You need it as high as possible, above furniture. Things like refrigerators or TV's can effect the signal.
Hopefully this antenna will work for you. It did exactly what we needed it to do for us. I spent hours trying to find a solution online. All I found were tech advice which was way over my head.
Amped Wireless High Power Wi-Fi Signal Booster took less than a minute to install. It gave me about 3 bars of signal on my iPhone in my office and 2 bars in the backyard, where I did not get any signal at all. I also used a freeware program called iStumbler to check the wifi signal for an increase. In my office next to the kitchen, where I would get a signal strength of 30% (and repeatedly dropped connections), I had an increase at exactly 70% without no dropped connections.
I also tried the Hawking HiGain Signal Booster version 2 - HSB2 from Amazon, which made a really irritating high-pitched sound. Wife and I could not live with that. So for around $20 more, this device was well worth it. This Amped Wireless antenna gave more signal strength than the Hawkings booster with NO NOISE.
Also note that wifi signals can change drastically from where the antenna is positioned. You need it as high as possible, above furniture. Things like refrigerators or TV's can effect the signal.
Hopefully this antenna will work for you. It did exactly what we needed it to do for us. I spent hours trying to find a solution online. All I found were tech advice which was way over my head.
Product Description
The Amped Wireless High Power 1000mW Wi-Fi Signal Booster amplifies the signal strength of your certified Wi-Fi device to deliver more wireless range and performance. Typical wireless routers, access points and adapters have wireless output powers of less than 50mW. The SB1000 replaces the removable antenna on your certified Wi-Fi device to boost the signal strength by as much as 20 times, to a staggering 1000mW of wireless power. The high gain omni-directional antenna transmits the boosted signal in a 360 degree radius to cover your entire home or office with strong Wi-Fi coverage.
Features
- 20X the Power: Get more range for your wireless network
- Boosts Wi-Fi range and speed in all directions
- Plug and Play: Replaces the antenna on your certified* Wi-Fi device
- Works with certified* 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi devices*see product notices below
Buy Diamond Multimedia 300Mbps 802.11n Wireless Range Extender (WR300N) now
Recently I performed some wireless network troubleshooting for a client who owned a popular restaurant in a busy downtown district where wireless congestion was common. We tried switching wireless channels on their Wireless-G network using tools such as nSSIDer for assistance with analyzing the spectrum, but we didn't have any luck in improving the signal. The problem was that in the front area of the restaurant, guests could easily connect and use the internet without any trouble. But near the back of the establishment, thanks to distance of greater than 75 feet or so and a couple of large brick walls, the signal quality and strength was terrible. Worst of all, the offices were in the back of the building, roughly 100 feet away, and three or more walls separated them from the router.
Eventually we settled on this product. Once it arrived, setup was a breeze. I plugged it into a wall socket, gave it a moment to initialize, and then logged into its web server backend using a web browser pointed to the specified IP Address (don't worry; it's easy). From there, a wizard actually walks you through the available options: repeating or actually setting up a parallel (separate) network which shares the same internet/network connectivity.
It's pretty simple how it works in case you aren't familiar. The device connects as a client to the existing wireless network, then emits its own signal separately using, by default, the same network settings (SSID, encryption, and security settings) to either enhance the existing signal or add another network connectivity option with a separate SSID and even different encryption if you choose. This allows you to easily correct problems with poor signal quality, coverage, or range.
In our experimenting with setting it up, we found that placing it probably 75% of the way from the existing router toward the fringe of its signal coverage was the best option. The device still held a solid signal (it packs a pretty good antenna design) and emitted a very powerful second signal to enhance the network. Clients connecting to the wireless network interface transparently with the device after it's added to the equation, so no reconfiguration is necessary.
Bottom line, if you're having signal quality issues, it's a great buy. Nothing will make wireless as reliable as wired, of course, but this device will go a long way toward correcting any problems you have (within reason).
Eventually we settled on this product. Once it arrived, setup was a breeze. I plugged it into a wall socket, gave it a moment to initialize, and then logged into its web server backend using a web browser pointed to the specified IP Address (don't worry; it's easy). From there, a wizard actually walks you through the available options: repeating or actually setting up a parallel (separate) network which shares the same internet/network connectivity.
It's pretty simple how it works in case you aren't familiar. The device connects as a client to the existing wireless network, then emits its own signal separately using, by default, the same network settings (SSID, encryption, and security settings) to either enhance the existing signal or add another network connectivity option with a separate SSID and even different encryption if you choose. This allows you to easily correct problems with poor signal quality, coverage, or range.
In our experimenting with setting it up, we found that placing it probably 75% of the way from the existing router toward the fringe of its signal coverage was the best option. The device still held a solid signal (it packs a pretty good antenna design) and emitted a very powerful second signal to enhance the network. Clients connecting to the wireless network interface transparently with the device after it's added to the equation, so no reconfiguration is necessary.
Bottom line, if you're having signal quality issues, it's a great buy. Nothing will make wireless as reliable as wired, of course, but this device will go a long way toward correcting any problems you have (within reason).
Product Description
The WR300N device can take an existing 802.11n wireless signal, repeat and send it to a longer range where it is too far away for the router or access point to reach. It eliminates the cable wires while providing the same reliable network connection. It can repeat and extend the wireless signal from virtually any 802.11n wireless router or access point that is launched on the market. It is backwards compatible with the 802.11b/g router or access point.
Features
- Receives weak wireless signals and extends the signal range to greater distances eliminating wireless dead spots
- Create a wireless network by connecting the device to a wired router/cable modem or DSL modem
- Receives wireless signal from your home wireless network and convert to wired Ethernet connections for non wireless devices such as internet ready
- Supports wireless 802.11b/g/n standards with one 10/100Base-T Ethernet port, 1 year limited warranty
- HDTV's, gaming consoles (PS3) and internet ready blue ray players
Buy Netgear Universal Dual Band WiFi Range Extender (WN2500RP) now
I bought this after having a bad experience with the Amped line of extenders. This repeater was a breeze to setup, even the advanced functions. There wasn't a need to take a computer and reconfigure it to do the initial setup, right out of the box all I had to do was connect my laptop to it's temporary wifi ssd and reconfigure it from there using a simple step by step setup. I really like the fast lane technology where you can have it communicate on one band to your router and one band to your devices. Doing this increased my repeat speed by 300%. I live in an apartment building and can see over 20 wifi networks from my normal operating area, using the fast lane setup where I use 2.4Ghz to connect to my router and then 5.Ghz to connect to my devices works best as the farther out you take your devices in a 2.4Ghz wifi cluster environment, the more interference you have. One thing people should realize in that the signal is being repeated. . .don't expect to get the same speed as connecting directly to your router. When connected to my router I get aprox. 60-95MBs throughput, when it is being repeated on this product I am getting at max 30MBs using fastlane which is much better than other repeaters I've used. Also the 2.4Ghz will generally get about 15-20% better range but the 5Ghz works much better in wifi dense areas.
Product Description
The NETGEAR Universal Dual Band WiFi Range Extender, 4-port WiFi Adapter boosts dual band WiFi coverage for your wireless homeoffi ce or home theater network. It works with any standard WiFi router or gateway and enables the connection of smartphones, iPads,and more.
Features
- Boost Dual Band WiFi - Simultaneous dual band provides best coverage for devices like iPads, tablets, and smartphones
- Works with Major ISPs - Extends range of any standard single or dual band WiFi router or service provider gateways
- FastLane Technology - Offers maximum performance for streaming videos and gaming
- Four (4) Ports - Enables connection of multiple wired devices wirelessly
- Easy Installation - Push 'N' Connect connects computers and/or routers to the extender quickly and securely. No CD orEthernet cable required
- Supports Windows 8
Buy Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension now
Nearly all Amazon.com reviewers agree, the Alfa AWUS036H is the long range WiFi antenna on the market. But with 3 antenna options to chose from, which is the best setup?
I own the all 3 wi-fi antennas from Alpha: 5dBi omni-directional, 7dBi panel, 9dBi omni-directional. The Alfa AWUS036H with the 7dBi antenna is the best performing set up: Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Rubber Antenna and a 7dBi Panel Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension *Strongest on the Market*
With the 5dBi omni antenna, I can get 2-3 bars from a public wi-fi signal a little over 1 mile away (direct line of sight).
With the 9dBi omni antenna, I get only 0-1 bar with dropped signals.
With the 7dBi panel antenna, I get 3-4 bars with the fastest data transfer rates.
I have even tested the 5dBi and 7 dBi side by side and the 7dBi loads web pages in less than 1/2 the speed as the 5dBi antenna.
I have done a fair amount of research before purchasing the Alfa AWUS036H unit. The general consensus is that this unit has much better performance for B and G networks than the newer Alfa AWUS036NH model. But for accessing N networks, the newer model is necessary.
Although I still own the 5dBi and 9dBi antennas, I only ever use the 7dBi panel antenan. It's actually shorter in size and easier to transport than the 5dBi model. Go with the 7dBi - you'll get the best performance.
***** UPDATED COMPARISON *****
Aug 25, 2011: Using Xirrus Wi-Fi Monitor software, I compared the signal strength of this Alfa AWUS036H with the 7dBi panel antenna Alfa 2.4HGz 7dBi Booster SMA Panel High-Gain Screw-On Swivel Antenna or to the new High Power USB-Yagi Plug and Play directional WiFi Antenna 802.11n 2200mW / NextG USB-Yagi Plug & Play 11N Long Range WiFi antenna 2200mW. In nearly every test location, the Alfa rated 1 bar better and -10 RSSI (Receiving Signal Strength Indication) better (with RSSI signals negative numbers are better).
Although the 2200mW Yagi antenna is much larger and twice the power, it pulls in a weaker signal and slower data transfer than the 1000mW Alfa 7dBi panel antenna.
Still this Alfa AWUS036H is the best performing wi-fi antenna on the market. Thank you Alfa!
*** IMPORTANT ***
Please rate this review as 'helpful' to push this review to the product's home page so that everyone can get the best performing WiFi antenna setup: Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Rubber Antenna and a 7dBi Panel Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension *Strongest on the Market*
I own the all 3 wi-fi antennas from Alpha: 5dBi omni-directional, 7dBi panel, 9dBi omni-directional. The Alfa AWUS036H with the 7dBi antenna is the best performing set up: Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Rubber Antenna and a 7dBi Panel Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension *Strongest on the Market*
With the 5dBi omni antenna, I can get 2-3 bars from a public wi-fi signal a little over 1 mile away (direct line of sight).
With the 9dBi omni antenna, I get only 0-1 bar with dropped signals.
With the 7dBi panel antenna, I get 3-4 bars with the fastest data transfer rates.
I have even tested the 5dBi and 7 dBi side by side and the 7dBi loads web pages in less than 1/2 the speed as the 5dBi antenna.
I have done a fair amount of research before purchasing the Alfa AWUS036H unit. The general consensus is that this unit has much better performance for B and G networks than the newer Alfa AWUS036NH model. But for accessing N networks, the newer model is necessary.
Although I still own the 5dBi and 9dBi antennas, I only ever use the 7dBi panel antenan. It's actually shorter in size and easier to transport than the 5dBi model. Go with the 7dBi - you'll get the best performance.
***** UPDATED COMPARISON *****
Aug 25, 2011: Using Xirrus Wi-Fi Monitor software, I compared the signal strength of this Alfa AWUS036H with the 7dBi panel antenna Alfa 2.4HGz 7dBi Booster SMA Panel High-Gain Screw-On Swivel Antenna or to the new High Power USB-Yagi Plug and Play directional WiFi Antenna 802.11n 2200mW / NextG USB-Yagi Plug & Play 11N Long Range WiFi antenna 2200mW. In nearly every test location, the Alfa rated 1 bar better and -10 RSSI (Receiving Signal Strength Indication) better (with RSSI signals negative numbers are better).
Although the 2200mW Yagi antenna is much larger and twice the power, it pulls in a weaker signal and slower data transfer than the 1000mW Alfa 7dBi panel antenna.
Still this Alfa AWUS036H is the best performing wi-fi antenna on the market. Thank you Alfa!
*** IMPORTANT ***
Please rate this review as 'helpful' to push this review to the product's home page so that everyone can get the best performing WiFi antenna setup: Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Rubber Antenna and a 7dBi Panel Antenna - for Wardriving & Range Extension *Strongest on the Market*
Product Description
The Alfa AWUS036H is the latest version of the most powerful card available. This has a stunning 1000mW output power. So if you are looking for a device to connect to an outdoor 2.4 GHz antenna, such as on a boat or an RV, this is a perfect solution. It outperforms wireless cards that are built in to newer laptops. Adding this to your laptop or desktop computer will enhance range and signal quality at longer distances. And works with Win98SE/200/ME/XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Linux (kernel 2.6.6 and later) and Macintosh (OS version 10.4). And the necessary drivers for ALL of these operating systems are included on CD-ROM* Connects at a full 54Mbps via USB 2.0, up to 8 times faster than a USB 1.1 adapter* High gain upgradeable* Compact size for greater flexibility* Also compatible with USB 1.1 desktop and notebook computers* Plug-and-Play Compatible with windows 98SE, 2000, Millennium, XP and Linux* High security 64/128/256bit WEP Encryption, TKIP, WPA, 802.11 Data Rate 802.11b: UP to 11Mbps, 802.11g: 54Mbps Antenna Type 1 x 2.4Ghz SMA connectorChipset Realtek 8187LOutput Power 24dBm (OFDM), 30dBm(CCK)Frequency Stability within +25 ppmData Modulation Type BPSK,QPSK, CCK and OFDMSecurity WEP 64/128, 802.1X support, Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA), WPA-PSK ,WPA II .Dimensions 8.5 x 2.2 x 6.3cmWeight 38.5gFor MAC OS 10.6.7 and later version, we suggest AWUS036NHR, AWUS036NH, WUS036NEH, AWUS051NH.
Features
Buy Netgear Universal WN3000RP Wi-Fi Range Extender - Manufacturer Refurbished now
I live in a dorm / hotel situation where the WIFI connection was 2 bars at the best. I quickly figured out that my room was within the range of the router so I bought the Netgar range extender. I was sceptical at first but once I put it up in my room it was like magic. 2 bars are now solid 5 bars and I conect at 144 KBPS vs the 24 - 36 KBPS before. Only down side is that it goes to sleep and after 3-4 hours of inactivity and you have to reboot it each morning to release and renew the IP. Other that that it has been a life saver as I work from home and my VPN connections are robust now.
Product Description
Extends wireless coverage, universal compatibility Easy install - no CD required Connect iPad, Smartphones, and more
Features
Buy Netgear WiFi Booster for Mobile (WN1000RP-100NAS) now
Setup: Paired with an AT&T U-Verse gateway (2-WIRE model)
This little device works well, but one thing I dislike is that both the instructions and software itself try to steer users towards using a different SSID than your home wifi router. It automatically attempts to append "_EXT" onto your SSID to create its own. While this is fine for stationary devices like media streamers and cams it is not the correct setup to allow one to move freely about a home, between floors, etc. with a mobile device.
The way most consumer devices work is that they will hold onto a wifi signal and not try to hook onto a new SSID until it drops below, say, 50% for a given amount of time. For example, if your main wifi router is upstairs, and you place this device downstairs, once connected to this repeater your phone/tablet/etc. will likely stay connected to it even when you go back upstairs. This can be a problem as many devices will boost their wifi antenna power in order to try to maintain a more stable connection to a wifi router, and this puts a drain on the battery.
The better way to set things up for max mobility is to perform the manual setup ("Option #2" in the user guide), and change the SSID to match your main wifi router's. For example, if your SSID is called "mywifi", set the SSID on this repeater to "mywifi" as well. Most consumer devices move much more freely between multiple matching SSID points than they do between disparate SSIDs. This way, no matter where you move within the space your device will likely swap to the closest/strongest wifi. I have verified this behavior on Android, Chrome OS, and iOS.
Using a single SSID works for stationary devices, too. If you see your SSID repeated in the list of available connections (this is how it appears on a Roku player, for example), simply select the first one in the list as the entries are ordered by signal strength.
This little device works well, but one thing I dislike is that both the instructions and software itself try to steer users towards using a different SSID than your home wifi router. It automatically attempts to append "_EXT" onto your SSID to create its own. While this is fine for stationary devices like media streamers and cams it is not the correct setup to allow one to move freely about a home, between floors, etc. with a mobile device.
The way most consumer devices work is that they will hold onto a wifi signal and not try to hook onto a new SSID until it drops below, say, 50% for a given amount of time. For example, if your main wifi router is upstairs, and you place this device downstairs, once connected to this repeater your phone/tablet/etc. will likely stay connected to it even when you go back upstairs. This can be a problem as many devices will boost their wifi antenna power in order to try to maintain a more stable connection to a wifi router, and this puts a drain on the battery.
The better way to set things up for max mobility is to perform the manual setup ("Option #2" in the user guide), and change the SSID to match your main wifi router's. For example, if your SSID is called "mywifi", set the SSID on this repeater to "mywifi" as well. Most consumer devices move much more freely between multiple matching SSID points than they do between disparate SSIDs. This way, no matter where you move within the space your device will likely swap to the closest/strongest wifi. I have verified this behavior on Android, Chrome OS, and iOS.
Using a single SSID works for stationary devices, too. If you see your SSID repeated in the list of available connections (this is how it appears on a Roku player, for example), simply select the first one in the list as the entries are ordered by signal strength.
Product Description
NETGEAR WiFi Booster for Mobile amplifies WiFi coverage for mobile devices in the home by extending and strengthening an existing WiFi signal, for an improved wireless experience on iPads and Android tablets, smartphones, netbooks and e-readers. You can reduce 3G/4G mobile data charges by connecting to WiFi at home.
Features
- WiFi Booster for Mobile amplifies
- Ideal for iPads and Android tablets, smartphones, netbooks and e-readers
- Reduce 3G/4G mobile data charges by connecting to WiFi at home
- Supports Windows 8
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