repeating a weak signal

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s18621
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PostPosted: Tue Feb 08, 2011 23:28    Post subject: repeating a weak signal Reply with quote
I hoping that I could get some advice from the experts since my web searches haven't turned up what I need.

I am currently using an EnGenius modem with an external whip antenna (~1' long) to pick up a public wifi signal. Unfortunately, the signal is so weak that even with the whip I can only pick it up in one location in my house (with "normal" modems I haven't been able to get it at all). I would like to purchase a repeater to redistribute it throughout my single story house but would like to make sure that:

1) It would be strong enough to pick up the weak signal
2) It could operate in "stand-alone" mode (without having to have it hooked to a computer 24-7)

Is this reasonable, and if so, would anyone have a recommendation for the required hardware?

Thanks.
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GeeTek
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PostPosted: Wed Feb 09, 2011 1:19    Post subject: Reply with quote
Get a cheap wireless router and configure it as an access point. Then connect it to the Engenius to re-broadcast service.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833704008

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s18621
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Joined: 08 Feb 2011
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PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2011 2:55    Post subject: Reply with quote
Thank you for taking the time to reply.

I believe that you're recommending that I attach the EnGenius antenna (w/o the accompanying EnGenius USB modem) to the wireless router in place of its stock antenna, correct? If so, I believe that I would need to find a wireless router with a detachable antenna (this one appears to be permanent based on the item description although it's tough to know for sure).

Have you found that there is an appreciable difference in the receiving sensitivity of routers, or is one just as good as another?
GeeTek
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PostPosted: Fri Feb 11, 2011 7:25    Post subject: Reply with quote
What kind of cable connects your Engenius to your computer ? What is the model number of the Engenius ?
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s18621
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Joined: 08 Feb 2011
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PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2011 3:02    Post subject: Reply with quote
Antenna:

7dBi mag mount with rp-SMA Plug (7dbimagsma)

Modem:

EnGenius 200mW 802.11BG EUB-362 EXT WITH SMA CONNECTOR (EUB-362 EXT)

The router you recommended doesn't appear to have an SMA plug but a built-in, non-removable antenna, right?
GeeTek
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Joined: 06 Jun 2006
Posts: 3763
Location: I'm the one on the plate.

PostPosted: Sat Feb 12, 2011 4:23    Post subject: Reply with quote
s18621 wrote:
The router you recommended doesn't appear to have an SMA plug but a built-in, non-removable antenna, right?

Right, but we were not planning to connect it to the Engenius's antenna.

Your Engenuis radio is a USB connected device, thanks to the reference of the model number.

To solve your problem you will pretty much need to start over with a whole new set of gear. You need to replace the Engenius ( junk that little piece of shit...) and get a real radio designed to be a long range client. This one here would be a good choice ;
http://www.ubnt.com/downloads/nbm2_datasheet.pdf

It would connect directly to the cheap router in my first link, to re-broadcast the signal locally.

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