Hi Margaret,

I don't have much experience setting up wireless networks but I have some 
thoughts you may find helpful. I would first evaluate how much any obstacles 
(the trees) interfere with a direct line of sight between the two locations 
and how to reduce or eliminate them. Would trimming the trees reduce the 
interference? Is it feasible to cut the trees? Consider the construction of 
the trailer and your son's house. Could the computers in both locations be 
moved to a better location? Getting as close as possible to a direct line of 
sight between the two points is the objective.

Secondly, focus on the signal strength and range. As has been pointed out by 
several responses, most Wi-Fi access points use omnidirectional antennas. 
What you want is a more precise antenna that will focus the signal in the 
way that a flashlight's reflector concentrates it's illumination. Commercial 
antennas of this type tend to be expensive. I have included a list of links 
below for more information in general, but the first two focus on building 
an antenna, a "do it yourself" way of solving the distance problem. I have 
not built one but both articles appear to be thorough, the methods sound, 
and may be a possible solution.

Wi-Fi USB adaptors & DIY antenna:
http://www.usbwifi.orcon.net.nz/

How to build a tin can waveguide antenna:
http://www.turnpoint.net/wireless/cantennahowto.html

Improving WiFi Range (TechNews.com):
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A28715-2004May15.html

WIFI Range Problems - Forum:
http://www.wi-fitechnology.com/viewthread216.html

Can The WiFi Range of a Wireless Laptop be Increased?:
http://compnetworking.about.com/od/wirelessfaqs/f/wifilaptoprange.htm

WiFi distance record - Google Search:
http://tinyurl.com/nwa4f

I would be interested in your progress and results on this project. If you 
don't report your results to the list, please write me directly.

Sven Swanson, Sr.

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Margie" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Monday, March 27, 2006 10:02 AM
Subject: [PCBUILD] WIFI network


Hi,
    I am trying to set up a wifi network for my son and his daughters.  The 
daughters live on the same property, about 1600 feet behind the dad, and we 
are trying to get the signal to go to their trailer. There are some 
obstructions like trees which may be in the way.  With my laptop I could 
pick up a great signal about a thousand feet away, half signal 1400 feet and 
then no signal when we get to their driveway.  We have purchased a 2.4 GHz 
range extender 5 dBi omni directional antenna with a 4 foot cable.  It is 
connected to a Linsys Wirelss G Broadband Wireless Router.  We still cannot 
receive a signal to their computers, which do have Linksys WMP54GS 
wireless-G PCI Adapters with speedbooster in each of the girls computers. 
It still won't reach their computers.  I was wondering if there is some kind 
of a setup that we can put in their trailer that will draw the signal to 
their computers.  Oh and their desktops are sitting on the floor.

They all have Win XP Pro.

Thanks very much
Margaret 

            Do you want to signoff PCBUILD or just change to
                    Digest mode - visit our web site:
                   http://freepctech.com/pcbuild.shtml