USB long range Wifi options
When your laptop’s internal Wifi just can’t quite get the reception you want, an external USB Wifi adapter (and antenna) can be just the ticket 🙂
Here are a couple intriguing options available from Amazon:
Alfa
I actually have one of the Alfa models and it works very well. The main drawback is that it maxes out at 54mbs (802.11g) since it does not support 802.11n (150-300mbs) 🙁
Some of these “high powered” USB modems tend to overheat but the Alfa has been reliable for me. Likewise, the reception with a variety of antennas attached has generally been very good.
Along those lines, an external antenna connector is definitely a feature to look for because it allows you to connect any Wifi antenna you want. So for travel you can choose a compact antenna, or for a really long range setup you can choose a bigger antenna.
Overall I rate the Alfa 4/5 stars since it performs very well
[starreview tpl=16]
It would have been 5 stars but I deducted one star since it does not support the latest wifi standard (802.11n).
Crane
I have not tried one of the Crane models but from the reviews it seems to perform admirably! If it were more economically priced I would buy one to compare with the Alpha, but for now I will just keeping looking for a professional review of the Crane USB wifi adapter. If I find one I will post it here 🙂
Amazon.com: Alfa AWUS036H Upgraded to 1000mW 1W 802.11b/g – High Gain USB Wireless Long-Rang WiFi network Adapter with 5dBi Rubber Antenna and a 7dBi Panel Antenna – for Wardriving & Range Extension *Strongest on the Market*: Electronics
Amazon.com: C. Crane US3 Super USB Wifi Antenna 3: Electronics
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- alfa awuso36nh high gain usb wireless 802.11 g / n long-rang wireless long range wifi network adapter with 5 dbi antenna - for wardriving (16)
- alfa awus036h upgraded to 1000mw 1w 802.11b/g high gain usb wireless long-rang wifi network adapter with 5dbi rubber antenna and a 7dbi panel antenna (8)
- alfa awus036h overheat (4)
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- alfa awus036h upgraded to 1000mw 1w 802.11b/g high gain usb wireless long-rang wifi network adapter with 5dbi antenna (2)
- alfa long range wifi antena v c crane (2)
- alfa wifi wardriving (2)