Wireless adapter signal strength

S

sirgknight

New Member
I recently purchased a Linksys WRT54GP2A wireless router, version 2.1, and a "generic" brand wireless adapter for my other computer. My home computer is in my den and my network computer is in my workshop about 75 feet from my house. I can sit in my workshop and see the router through the double windows in my den. It's completely line of sight with only one 4 inch wall to penetrate to the computer's adapter. The signal strength at the network computer constantly changes from "Low" to "Good" to "Signal unavailable". I'm assuming that several factors figure into signal strength, including using a G router instead of an N; distance between hardware; quality of hardware; maybe even atmospheric or other interference phenomena such as portable phone in vicinity, etc. Short of changing out everything, what can I try to possible improve the signal strength at the network computer? Would a better quality wireless adapter help?
 
You could have a bad wireless adapter, especially if its a usb type. Just as you said you could have interference from appliances or other things. You could also try changing the channel of the wireless is on, try channel 6 which is usually the best.
 
thanks john. the adapter I purchased was an EDUP brand for Desktop or Notebook, compatible with all Windows systems. I happen to be using XP home edition on both computers. Is it difficult to change the channels on the router?
 
I found out how to change the channel and changed it to channel 6 as suggested. When I first booted the computer the signal strength was reading between Good and Very Good, showing 38 Mbps, then it started showing Low again with 12 Mbps. So far, though, it has not dropped the signal. I'll check it throughout the day to say what variations I may get. Thanks for the help.
 
You can always try using different channels but like i said channel 6 is usually the best.
 
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