http://www.catalina42.org/war-sail/
In summary, Orinoco Gold found 207 AP's while warsailing. A month later, the SMC card found 290 AP's. I expect during that month, a few actually got added, but I expect it is the added sensitivity of the SMC that accounted for more stumbling. Everything else was exactly the same in these 2 tests running Windows 2000. I also got the small SMC mag mount antenna with the proper connector for the 2532. The cable is a little on the short side (3'), but has still worked out very well.
Just kicking options around, if you're looking to get an antenna up to 20' from a computer, a USB device also works out quite well. I've installed Compex WLU11A, http://www.cpx.com/proddetail.asp?c=Wireless%20Products&e=19 in a few boats with 20' usb extensions. It doesn't have nearly the capability of the SMC2532WB, but, if you're looking for an inexpensive way to get an antenna 20' from a computer, this works out quite well. It also supports Netstumbler.
I have also tried the Belkin F5D6050 USB device. I have not been happy with it.
I just hope the wonderful state of Cal doesn't outlaw laptops near the skipper of a boat, like they have done in autos <grin>.
~~~~_/)~~~~
Norm Perron
Mike,
Now if only there were more wireless PC cards with external antenna connectors. I've read that firms currently prefer to avoid adding external antenna connectors to wireless PC cards, because the Wi-Fi Alliance certification process of cards so-equipped is more complicated than that of those not-so. This would be a reason that the Proxim-redesigned Orinoco cards no longer possess them.
Here's a wireless PC card from SMC possessing an external MMCX connector that could be found in a local retail store. Has anyone seen the SMC2532WB? Or better yet, have one?
http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/Reviews-46-ProdID-SMC2532WB.php
Finally, does anyone know of any other manufacturer routinely stocked in retail stores still making wireless PC card with an external connector?
Though they are definitely manufacturers of Wireless PC cards with external antenna connectors, Senao, Demarc, and EnGenius are not the kind of manufacturers that I've ever seen at Fry's, Best Buy, or Radio Shack.
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