[NTLUG:Discuss] LAN Planning

[Rick Matthews]

I went through a similar thought process about a month ago. Based on
your comments below it appears the solution I am using would also
meet your needs.

I had moved a workstation to a new study area for my son. The
workstation was cabled to the LAN before the move, but running a
cable to the new location was not a good option because of 3 vaulted
ceilings. I looked into wireless and discovered the same things you
are discovering, and the cost per workstation is fairly high if you
only need one wireless workstation.

I decided to go with powerline networking. I bought 2 Linksys PLEBR10
from MicroCenter for $99 each and that's all it took.

I got the idea while browsing one of those catalogs that the airlines
put in the seatbacks. I jotted down the information from the ad and
looked up the $130 "Neverwire 14" when I got back home:
<http://www.phonex.com/>

I liked the idea that it didn't require any software. This was perfect
for a previously-cabled workstation. I also liked the idea that with
powerline networking, I *already* have multiple LAN outlets in every
room of my home. I was in a hurry and could not find the "Neverwire
14" locally, and decided on the Linksys. Netgear also has an entry 
in this market.

Here are reviews on the products:
Linksys:
<http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,4149,4258,00.asp>
Netgear:
<http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,4149,4256,00.asp>

I also found PC Magazine's performance table interesting:
<http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,4149,17606,00.asp>

It's been about a month and I still very pleased with the decision.

Rick



> -----Original Message-----
> From: discuss-admin at ntlug.org [mailto:discuss-admin at ntlug.org]On Behalf
> Of Aaron Goldblatt
> Sent: Saturday, August 24, 2002 2:47 AM
> To: discuss at ntlug.org
> Subject: Re: [NTLUG:Discuss] LAN Planning
> 
> 
> > I expect wireless is looking better and better now. ;)
> 
> It is, but I have no real knowledge of how it works and what to expect with respect to 
> signal fade through walls.  I'm not going to be going through brick or wanting to hit 
> anything outside, but the houses are on zero lots and any neighbor may be within 
> range.  Not a huge deal if I pay attention (and not a great problem if I don't, I can 
> just burn their houses down if I catch them).  I'm mostly concerned with the signal 
> being able to get through several layers of drywall.  I've heard conflicting reports 
> about whether 802.11a or 802.11b is more appropriate.  For the application, speed 
> is not a serious issue, just distance and drywall.
> 
> ag
> 
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