bi241@scn.org wrote:
> got the AWLL5025 from local Frys for $19 + tax. The survey site
> software detects a total 6 networks in my ghetto neighborhood, my
> WRT54G running DD-WRT in client mode with 100mW of TX-power and 9dBi
> ruber duck omni can do no better...
>
> Netstumbler works with this adapter but cannot detect SSID of some
> stations, Cain&Abel do all...
>
> i gave my brother the PCI version of this RaLink-based adapter, the
> AWLH5025 PCI which i also paid $19, and it can see more networks than
> his D-Link DWL-G520M MIMO PCI, which he returned to CompUSA for $100
> back
>
> heck... i even bough the Atheros-based AWLH4030 PCI, paid $14 at Frys,
> that can run Commview for WiFi.
>
> oh and by the way, wireshark. formely ethereal, says the TX-power of
> this card is 100mW!!!
>
> cheers

Mine (USB ralink) didn't work with netstumbler. :-(

I opened mine up and yanked the antenna. I cut some hardline with a SMA
on one end and plan on mating the two. It looks doable. [The idea is it
is cheaper and better to use a USB cable to position the radio rather
than have the loss in the coax.]

I also built a new biquad using what might be a time saving trick.
Instead of trying to shove coax into copper pipe to do the feed, I cut
the top (threaded part) off of a female to female N adapter with a
hacksaw. Now I have N connector and a feed in one step. I cut a hole in
the copper plate using a cheap ass Harbor Freight stepped drill bit.
[The drill bit set is about the only good thing I ever bought there.]

I made the loop as a circle rather than having corners. Get copper wire
and mark out two sequential segments 122mm in length. Don't start from
the end, but give yourself some working room so you can grab the free
end of the wire. I then wrapped the wire around a PVC adapter that was
close to the proper diameter to get the shape. Then you bend the wire
in the center to form one common point of the biquad loop. Trim the
wire at the other marks and solder to the center feed of the hacked N
to N adapter. Yeah, I'll get around to photographing this. Next up is
fitting it to a Direct TV dish. [I couldn't find the Echo Star dish.]