Usb - Pci

Ominus · #1 (**permalink**) 06-08-2006, 01:06 AM

Alright, i have a linksys wireless g router in my house. Upstairs with my desktop I have a USB adapter. This is fine for basic internet use, even downloading large files isn't that bad. But while gaming i get the usual spikes and high pings. I was wondering if I would see much of a difference if i used a PCI card instead. I was looking at the D-Link AG530 becuase of its antenna which can be moved around. I guess I just want to know if it's 1. going to give better proformance and 2. going to be worth getting the card or to just live through the spikes.

Kevin

NZLamb · #2 (**permalink**) 06-08-2006, 01:22 AM

The main difference between cards is not so much the interface but more the chipset and driver quality. If you do use a PCI card, make sure it doesn't have the same chipset as the USB one you have now or you might experience the same problem. Of course an external antenna does help as you can move it around to find the best signal.

What is the signal strength like on your existing USB adapter? If its pretty good why not try changing the channel of the AP to see if interference is causing the problem? Much cheaper than buying a new card!

If the signal is not very good I would almost garauntee the new card would fix that problem.

The D-Link DWL-AG530 is Atheros-based, this would be a good choice. You probably won't be able to use it at 108Mbps though as Linksys usually uses Broadcom chips and the two brands use substantially different methods for achieving their theoretical 108Mbps speed.

Ominus · #3 (**permalink**) 06-08-2006, 02:21 AM

The signal strength varies, from 2-4 bars out of 5. How is interference created? by other networks? and how would i go about changing the ap? in the options for the router?

Thanks a lot

Kevin

Ominus · #4 (**permalink**) 06-08-2006, 02:22 AM

oh, and if i went with the pci, would it be better to use a linksys adapter?

NZLamb · #5 (**permalink**) 06-08-2006, 05:50 AM

You can change the channel in the router config. Interference can come from cordless phones, microwave overs, home video transmitters and neighbours wireless networks.

Getting a Linksys PCI adapter is a good idea as usually you can expect devices from the same manufacturer to get along.

Ominus · #6 (**permalink**) 06-08-2006, 07:11 PM

alright, i'll try changing the channel soemtime this weekend. Hopefully it will help. Thanks alot.

Kevin

Ominus · #7 (**permalink**) 06-09-2006, 09:41 PM

correction it's a D-Link router not a Linksys.

NZLamb · #8 (**permalink**) 06-09-2006, 10:46 PM

Go with the D-Link card then.

Try a firmware update for the router too, before investing any money.