Netgear...

[RichardCraneum]

Anybody here knows about Netgear DSL Routers or products? I just want to know just in case I need help. Thanks in advance for any replies.

[Greenstead]

I use Netgear products. Netgear MR314 wireless routers and Netgear MA401 wireless PC cards.

[kdev13]

Netgear products are usually a solid choice for a moderate user.

[Preacher]

I'm currently typing on a laptop with a Netgear MA401 connected to the Net with a FM114P router. While the configuration couldn't have been easier and the router has a GREAT set of features, I'm SORELY disappointed with the indoors range. I have a small one-story house of about 1200 square feet, and I can't get a decent link on the other side. Now, to be totally fair, I have to go through two walls one of which includes my kitchen (fridge, microwave).

Greenstead,
does that sound similar to what you get?

I'm thinking of investing in either an Orinoco Gold PC Card or a Senoa SL-2511CD PLUS (Used by hardcore warchalkers) to test them against the MA401.

[Greenstead]

Preacher
My home has a ground floor of 1500 sq ft. My router is in a corner of the house. If I go to right to the opposite corner I get low/marginal signal and occasional total loss (thro 3/4 solid walls).

I also have a Dell Truemobile wireless card (it is a rebadged Orinono gold card). The drop in signal is about the same as with my MA410.

All wireless card claims for range seem wildly exagerated - I suspect they test in an office environment with thin partitions.

If you want to improve signal I think a router/AP with detachable aeriel is best so you can attach a high gain aeriel. I believe Orinoco and D-Link do these for some of their products.

[Preacher]

That's interesting that your Netgear MA401 and the Orinoco Gold give similar ranges. The reviews I read of the Orinoco seem to indicate that its range is significantly better than average. Most of the reviewers were comparing it to Linksys and D-Link cards, though, not Netgear.

Have you heard of a company called Senao? Not sure if you're interested, but here's the link to their "Long Range Wireless LAN PC Card."

http://www.senao.com/default-1.htm

And here's the add on Ebay that got my attention, notice the receive sensitivity claims copied from FreeNetworks.ORG.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=20321&item=2074738734&rd=1

I TOTALLY agree about the ranges being WAY overstated. Luckily, the Missus, wondeful creature that she be, is going to let me move the router to the top of our dining room hutch. It'll be hidden in the back. Since our dining room is in the middle of the house, I should see better overall coverage. Most importantly, it should transmit a decent signal to the front yard. Nothing like surfing the net and enjoying sunny Southern California.

P.S. And AFTER Xmas I may get me that Senao card for some testing!