October 2007
Wireless cards
These devices complete the wireless hook-up between your computer and router
Most laptops--and even some desktops--come with built-in wireless networking capability, but even if yours doesn't, it's easy
to add. On a laptop, just slide a Wi-Fi card into the PC card slot. Or you can use a USB Wi-Fi adaptor (about $30) into a
free USB port--a very simple solution for owners who don't want to fiddle with their desktop's innards or who have computers,
such as Macs, that can't be opened. Don't be intimidated by the thought of mucking around in your PC. This is one of the simplest
upgrades around. All you need to do is remove a metal dust cover and snap the new card into position.
WHAT'S AVAILABLE
Wireless PC cards cost about $50 and you can get them anywhere computer equipment is sold. Major brands include 3Com, Belkin, Buffalo, D-Link, Linksys and Netgear. Most cards support the current 802.11g Wi-Fi standard, which is backward compatible with the older and slower 802.11b standard. Some call themselves 802.11n Draft cards. This is the forthcoming standard, not scheduled for ratification until 2009, but if the card's Wi-Fi certification logo includes the "N", the card you buy today will be compatible with future 802.11n equipment. The 802.11n standard promises speeds several times that of 802.11g and a longer range. Any Wi-Fi card should work fine with public "hotspots."
HOW TO CHOOSE
Setting up a wireless network can be easier if all your equipment is from the same manufacturer. So if you already have the wireless router, look for a card from the same company. If you choose to stay ahead of the curve by buying an 802.11n card, keep in mind that your network is only as strong as its weakest link, so if your router is 802.11g, don't expect 802.11n performance. The same holds true for an 802.11g card. On a mixed network, the performance will drop down to the lowest common denominator, so if you want the best possible performance, make sure all your equipment supports the latest standard. If you're in the market for a new laptop, Apple's Macs and those Windows PCs powered by Intel's Centrino might support the 802.11n standard. If you want 802.11n in an Intel-based PC, be sure to look for what Intel calls "Next-Gen Wireless-n," which promises compatibility with the approved standard. Windows and Macintosh computers work equally well with Wi-Fi.
WHAT'S AVAILABLE
Wireless PC cards cost about $50 and you can get them anywhere computer equipment is sold. Major brands include 3Com, Belkin, Buffalo, D-Link, Linksys and Netgear. Most cards support the current 802.11g Wi-Fi standard, which is backward compatible with the older and slower 802.11b standard. Some call themselves 802.11n Draft cards. This is the forthcoming standard, not scheduled for ratification until 2009, but if the card's Wi-Fi certification logo includes the "N", the card you buy today will be compatible with future 802.11n equipment. The 802.11n standard promises speeds several times that of 802.11g and a longer range. Any Wi-Fi card should work fine with public "hotspots."
HOW TO CHOOSE
Setting up a wireless network can be easier if all your equipment is from the same manufacturer. So if you already have the wireless router, look for a card from the same company. If you choose to stay ahead of the curve by buying an 802.11n card, keep in mind that your network is only as strong as its weakest link, so if your router is 802.11g, don't expect 802.11n performance. The same holds true for an 802.11g card. On a mixed network, the performance will drop down to the lowest common denominator, so if you want the best possible performance, make sure all your equipment supports the latest standard. If you're in the market for a new laptop, Apple's Macs and those Windows PCs powered by Intel's Centrino might support the 802.11n standard. If you want 802.11n in an Intel-based PC, be sure to look for what Intel calls "Next-Gen Wireless-n," which promises compatibility with the approved standard. Windows and Macintosh computers work equally well with Wi-Fi.
