Wireless network adapter: usb vs card

Question

I've been wanting to get a wireless network adapter but I am not sure which will work better, the usb kind or a card. I have a Dimension E310. Thanks

Davet50 · Answer

Both have their plus and minuses. The will both perform the same. The card requires on to open the case and takes up a card slot. The antenna placement on the back can interfere with the other connections.

The usb take up a usb slot, they are a bit more mobile in that you can move them around to try and get a better signal. They are easy to connect/disconnect.

I have used both and general prefer the usb mainly for its easy access.

Message Edited by Davet50 on 08-01-2008 01:18 PM

Larry R · Answer

The drawback to the USB wireless adapter is the slightly lower power (and thus signal strength) due to getting power over the USB connection (the worst I've seen is a 10% reduction is strength, but it was normally less of a drop; I haven't worked directly with wireless for a couple of years, however, so things may have changed).  For most people, in most situations, that drop in connection distance is negligable (if it is even noticeable) which is why the USB adapters get used more often.

achavez707 · Answer

Ok, nice little breakdown. I think I will go with the usb. I was planning on going with the usb in the first place but just wanted to know if a card presented any advantages. But thanks for the info. USB it is.

achavez707 · Answer

Yea, not too worried about a 10% decrease in signal strength. Just wasnted my desktop to finally go wireless. Thanks for the all the info

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Wireless network adapter: usb vs card

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