[mctw]

heyy,

Have just been looking at these Powerline Ethernet adaptors, and the reviews don't seem too bad. Am just wondering if anybody uses them? What are they like, and how well do they work??

They will be used to connect a pc to a router, so just a pair is needed. I don't really want to use a thernet cable, because it will involve taking up a vinyal floor, and drilling through a wall or 2...

Cheers
MCTW

[philthomas]

Unless you have distance issues, a PCI Wireless Network Card would be a better option imo

[mctw]

Nope, distance isn't really a issue. I get 3-4 bars usually, sometimes the full 5. Its just that its unreliable, the wireless keeps dropping.... mainly when I'm accessing larger files off my WHS, or downloading at a higher speed of the net, aka, if the PC is doing updates from Microsoft, i get a decent speed for a few mins, then the wireless drops..

[philthomas]

Are you running Wireless G or Wireless N Router ?

If G, it might be worth investing in Wireless N for Router and NIC Card...... as this will give better speeds and range/reliability.

[mctw]

Netgear Wireless G+ (108mbps) with matching adapters..
Everything else on the wireless is fine though. I'm now on the third wireless USB for this PC, and starting to get slightly cheesed off (Y) The range isnt really a problem btw, am still getting a decent signal, it just won't say connected!

[philthomas]

I have never been a great fan of USB wireless dongles ...... why add another interface and driver into the equation (USB), when you can connect with a PCI Wireless Card. They are generally cheaper too.

I know it requires opening the Tower, but this is a 5 min job and imo, is much more reliable.

[mctw]

Yeahh fitting one isn't exactly a issue, as you say, its not exactly hard!
I'll get a PCI one I think :-)
Hopefully its more reliable!

[philthomas]

If you want a good offer, this is from a good maker at £13.99 delivered.

It might also be worth looking to see if there is a firmware upgrade for your Router.

[mctw]

14quid? Thats pretty good! The only problem I've got is the PC is a slimline one, aka, takes half height cards... If it doesn't come with a half height plate I can also modify the full size one, or just remove it I guess..

And I've checked the firmware on the router, latest version. Its only this PC that has the issue as I said, we have 3 laptops that use the wireless too, and they work just fine!

[philthomas]

Does this not help :

Dimensions (WxDxH): 2.2 cm x 13.3 cm x 12.1 cm

I should also have pointed out that this is "As New" product ..... proper price is around £43 I believe.