Linksys this week announced availability of a wireless network range extender with its Wireless-G Range Expander (model WRE54G). The device plugs into a power outlet and expands the range of a Linksys 802.11g network (works with Linksys models WRT54G, WRT54GS and WAP54G).
The device can be used to help eliminate dead spots, too, by placing it within the range of the network's main access point (or router), and then bouncing the Wi-Fi signals out to other wireless devices. Installing the device involves plugging it into a power outlet, adjusting the direction of the antenna and pressing an "auto configuration" button on the device, Linksys says.
The device is now available, and costs $99. Go to the Linksys Web site for more details.
The thing I want to know is if it extends range w/out a loss of speed. You've been able to use a WAP54G as a repeater, but because of how it does it your speed is cut in half (at least).
Posted by: Gregory Blake on June 21, 2004 11:53 AMJust got mine today. It has made surfing faster and I picked up about 5 new access points. I love free internet from my neighbors.
Posted by: Jason on July 3, 2004 09:30 PMIUPGRADED TO LINKSYS 54G WITH SPEED BOOSTER. AND IF I AM 5 FT AWAY IT HAS GREAT SPEED (OPTONLINE SPEED TEST SHOWS 6500 KPS, MSN HOME PAGE SPEED TEST SHOWS 22500 KPS.} BUT IF I GO 15 FEET AWAY THE SPEED DROPS TO DSL OR WORSE. WITH 802B AND A PIGGY BACK BOOSTER, I HAD CONSTANT AND PRETTY GOOD SIGNAL WHERE NOW I DO NOT. I AM DISAPPOINTED WITH 54G W/ SPEEDBOOST. I HAVE TRIED ADJUSTING THE ROUTER AND ANTENNAS BUT THAT DID HELP. I THINK I AM GOING BACK TO 802B
Posted by: chuck on August 18, 2004 11:24 PMPost a comment
