Updating a MySQL database with Perl; Extending wireless range

* Dr. Internet columnist Steve Blass discusses the basic steps for performing a database update with Perl * Help Desk columnist Ron Nutter offers advice on how to extend the wireless range of a wireless router to a building 400 to 500 feet away

* Updating a MySQL database with Perl

By Steve Blass

Q: I need to update a MySQL database in response to a Web form submission that uses Perl. I know the basics of Perl, and the Web site provides the database connectivity modules for Perl, but I need some help. What are the basic steps for performing a database update with Perl?

A: This involves gathering up the form field data from the submission, constructing the SQL statement you want to send to the database, opening the connection, sending the command, reading the results and delivering a response to the user.

To read Steve’s response in its entirety, please go to:

http://www.networkworld.com/columnists/2005/121205internet.html?rl

* Extending wireless range

By Ron Nutter

Q: I have a Linksys wireless router (wrt54gs) and want to extend its range. The router will be located in a wood-frame house and I want extend its range to a building 400 to 500 feet away (with a clear line of sight). Only one computer will be in the out-building. What is the best way to accomplish this – directional antennas, repeater, etc.?

– Jimmie Price

A: Since you have a clear line of sight between buildings, that’s good. To get the highest level of signal between buildings, having nothing between them is the most important thing to have.  To connect the two buildings, you will need to check the wrt54g’s firmware to see if it includes a “bridge” mode. This mode allows access points to talk to other access points to essentially construct a wireless link. Not all Linksys routers/access points have this functionality.

To read Ron’s response in its entirety, please go to:

http://www.networkworld.com/columnists/2005/121205nutter.html?rl