Which wireless network adaptor - they're all the same?

Question

i've discovered i need a USB wireless network adaptor but have found the prices confusing. there is this one for example

http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=45095&C=Maplin&U=SearchTop&T=wirless%20card&doy=25m7

or this one, a lot cheaper

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/USB-2-0-WIRELESS-LAN-WIFI-NETWORK-ADAPTER-802-11G-54MB_W0QQitemZ130241380180QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item130241380180&_trksid=p3286.m14.l1318

what differences could there be between the two, and what sort of things should i look out for when buying one of these adaptors?

thanks for any help

Answer 1

if i am not wrong u have to check out the speed e.g. LAN 10-100Mbps, for the USB it is not support for 2GB.

so as per mine suggestion check it compatibility .

Answer 2

Unless you have a poor signal, any one will do.

Answer 3

Here is my advice.  If you do not have a device like an ipod that needs to stream music from your hard drive located on your desktop computer while you are running on your treadmill, use powerline instead.  Check out this video: http://www.cnet.com/4520-7390_1-6274537-...

Answer 4

information technology tutorial

http://ittutorial.info/

Answer 5

Unfortunately I have not heard about both these brands, however I presume that this is for a old notebook or desktop, since most notebook these days have WiFi inbuilt.  

If it's for a old notebook, then I would consider the brand and what you have at home, this is a 54Mbps connector which is called G, Super G which is double that speed, N which is up to 300 Mbps, and then Wideband N which is meant to be even faster.  But if it's for a old notebook then 54 Mbps is probably adequate for you since it'll be a throwaway in a couple of years when you.  

If you plan to reuse this for say a desktop then I'll consider getting a higher speed connection, since it'll be more stable and will be outdated later.

I'd consider portability, if it's for the laptop (assuming it's old) you should consider getting a PCMCIA version, rather than plugging in your USB everytime you take your notebook out.  Unless of course you're using your notebook like a desktop. In which case...

You should consider a USB WiFi adaptor that has a larger antenna so you'll get better reception and range.  It's said that you should put your antenna at least 3 meters from anything electrical and metal for the best reception, which you can if you say have a USB extender.

Answer 6

If your wireless router is "Super/Enhanced G" then get yourself a "Super/Enhanced G" adapter.  It will give you double the speed, and greater range.

I have a few clients that use the Netgear WG111t, and the results have been pretty good.

Answer 7

i don't see much of a difference.  it might come down to how long they will work and how reliable they are.  but the infomation on both of those adapters looks good and comperable to the other

Answer 8

Check the standards for the device.  All 802.11 a / b / g are in principal the same in performance.  However some makers provide better service, better firmware upgrades, etc.

Answer 9

Hi, the price is cheaper on ebay because it is usually someone making a business at home, both are good USB adaptors with same rating of 54Mbs so go for the cheapest is my suggestion.....btw the one on ebay is gone!

Answer 10

You were a bit late putting the link for the one on eBay.  The sale is finished ... or did you want people to look at the similar items for sale, at the foot of the page?

They're purposely advertised at a lower starting price to encourage more bids.