Is LOS really needed? What about 5GHz frequency will that be a better frequency to invest in for this connection? If I get a 5 GHz card, does hotspots such as starbucks support 5ghz ?
LOS is not required, but sure makes life easier. Every obstacle that blocks line of site reduces the signal. Some materials block signal more than others (ie stucco vs. wood). Sometimes you can get lucky and get a friendly signal reflection off of something to work around LOS issues.
-rob
