MA311 + MA401: improving range

[olivier101]

Hi,

I have set up at home an 802.11b ad-hoc network, with a netgear MA311 PCI card in the desktop, and a Netgear MA401 PCMCIA card in the laptop.

Unfortunately, I'm quite disappointed wit the range, since i can't get a stable link from the bedroom, which is not even 10 m (30 ft) away from the desktop PC (but with 3 walls between).

I'm wondering what I could do to improve the range of my setup... I have managed to get an intermittent link by placing the desktop computer on the top of the desk :D instead of on the floor. Now what next? The MA311 has a rubber duck antenna, can I use an external antenna that I could place in a better location? The Netgear support says they don't sell such part or even support this possibility, and have no other option than buying an access point, which I'd like to avoid.

I've also read that the Intersil Prism chipset used in the MA401 (and possibly MA311 too) could be tweaked to deliver 100 mW instead of the default 33 mW, by changing a configuration register through the use of an Intersil utility. Has someone already tried that? Could it improve my situation? Do I risk frying my card if I try?

Thanks in advance for your answers...

[goink]

http://www.rangeextender.com/6ddedian.html

The IN24-6DD-RSMA should have a compatible connector.

I'm hoping someone else can jump in and say whether or not that will work... I haven't tried it, but I am considering it to make the range problem a little less severe..

[Uncle Ken]

According to the Seattle Wireless page here http://www.seattlewireless.net/index.cgi/HardwareComparison the Netgear MA311 antenna has an RP-SMA connector. Any antenna with that connector should work with your desktop, including the one recommended above, although I do not have direct experience with the MA311.

[olivier101]

Thanks gentlemen !

The pacific wireless 6dBi antenna seems a good choice, anyone here have experience with it ?

[oshea85]

maxrad MFB24006 (6dbi) is a killer antennae. very well made, outdoor rated. you'd need an N-male to RP-SMA cable, which maxrad can also provide.

I've used this antenna for years. it's weather-rated, and you can beat someone to death with a mfb24006, it's so well-made.

they also make an 8dbi version, among others.