Geekzone: technology news, blogs, forums
Guest
Welcome Guest.
You haven't logged in yet. If you don't have an account you can register now.


kiwimainlander

1 post

Wannabe Geek


#208307 6-Feb-2017 15:09
Send private message

My internet access is limited in my home, mainly due to low grade ADSL rural broadband provided by old copper wire.  My router/modem is a Linksys XAC 1200 connected to PC via ethernet.  I'd appreciate opinions on whether a more extensive range can be achieved by either 1) wired access point or 2) a powerline adaptor kit.  I understand extenders/repeaters will reduce the functionality of the primary router, hence the above selected options.  So, if option 1, any recommendations for brand/model?  And if 2, once again brand/model ... but more importantly I'd like to know if there is a maximum distance the wired plug can be from the primary router?  I currently have an ethernet cable available approx 8 metres (real distance or approx 15 metres of cable) from the router.  TIA


Create new topic
froob
698 posts

Ultimate Geek
+1 received by user: 233

Lifetime subscriber

  #1716095 6-Feb-2017 15:30
Send private message

If you can run an ethernet cable to the part of the house where you have poor wifi coverage and set up a second wifi access point, then that will be the best option.

If you can't do that, for example because there is no subfloor access or ceiling space access to run the cable, or you are renting, then connecting the second access point with powerline adapters is arguably the second best option.

Ethernet cable shouldn't be longer than 100 metres. Powerline will work differently in different houses, because it is affected by the cable, switchboard, etc.

I have used TP-Link powerline adapters with AC passthrough, and have found them to be quite good.








coffeebaron
6304 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 3566

Trusted
Lifetime subscriber

  #1716102 6-Feb-2017 15:58
Send private message

Powerline adaptors can have varied results. Case in point; I used a powerline adaptor recently to extend a wired connection to an external office for a printer to plug in. Speed over this link was 20Mbps Vs 30Mbps for the weak'ish Wi-Fi signal received in same area.

 

Another job I did recently, the power line adaptor worked fine getting the maximum 50Mbps of their VDSL connection.

 

So where possible - Wired connection

 

Then best of powerline or point to point wireless bridge (which will be the final solution to my example above).

 

 





Rural IT and Broadband support.

 

Broadband troubleshooting and master filter installs.
Starlink installer - one month free: https://www.starlink.com/?referral=RC-32845-88860-71 
Wi-Fi and networking
Cel-Fi supply and installer - boost your mobile phone coverage legally

 

Need help in Auckland, Waikato or BoP? Click my email button, or email me direct: [my user name] at geekzonemail dot com


raytaylor
4076 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 1296

Trusted

  #1716286 7-Feb-2017 01:19
Send private message

TP-Link make an awesome kit. Costs $150

 

We have over 60 now working well in customer installations





Ray Taylor

There is no place like localhost

Spreadsheet for Comparing Electricity Plans Here




dickytim
2514 posts

Uber Geek
+1 received by user: 537
Inactive user


  #1716956 8-Feb-2017 06:37
Send private message

I used a powerline adaptor in my old house that had the old fuse wire type switchboard, for me it worked very well, in the back room wi-fi was patchy at best. I even used it through a powerboard, which isn't recommended!

 

As above however the results do vary from house to house.


Create new topic








Geekzone Live »

Try automatic live updates from Geekzone directly in your browser, without refreshing the page, with Geekzone Live now.



Are you subscribed to our RSS feed? You can download the latest headlines and summaries from our stories directly to your computer or smartphone by using a feed reader.