Question 2W usb wifi device

[rogerdv]

A few dys ago I was checking the prices of some USB wifi adaptorss, specifically Alphas and other high power devices. Then a friend told me that they arent really 2000mw as advertised, but much less. Right now I have changed my mind about buying one, but I still have the doubt, is this true? Whats the real power?

 

[VirtualLarry]

My understanding is that Wifi devices are limited to 1W ISO EIRP or whatever units they use. I've not seen any 2000mw ones, unless the FCC upped the limit and I wasn't wasn't aware of it.

I've used some 1W "high power" 2.4Ghz N wifi devices, they worked "better" for weaker / far-away signals. But were still a bit of a PITA to connect.

Also, you'll be limited to much lower speeds than you may be used to these days with Wifi AC or AX over 5Ghz.

Edit: If this is for your home, then you're (IMHO) looking at the wrong device solution.

If you're at a campground, or cabin in the woods, or something, then yes, I could see a "high power" wifi being a solution.

But when you have the option of AC outlets in every room, and can deploy mesh, or even wired, do that instead of high-power 2.4Ghz N wifi.

 

[rogerdv]

What I want is to connect to a city wide Wifi network, but probably nearer AP is going to be 1-2kms away in a city built on top of several hills and all sort of weird houses. I have decided to go for a Nano instead of a usb device.

 

[JackMDS]

Good pro Wireless device that sits as one unit, connected to the client network through CAT6 with POE and High gain Directional Antenna attached directly to its output.

Giving Clear Line of Sight and sitting outside on a MAST in a special weather protection box, it can do 1-2 Km.

Sample of such hardware - https://www.data-alliance.net/antennas/

Most users have No Clue about the actual technology of Wireless.

Many Enthusiasts who are knowledgeable about computer hardware are also rather ignorant the specific Technology of Wireless.

Marketing take advantage of it, and uses whatever numbers fits their Selling Agenda.

The output circuit of the device, Antenna and the Environment are just as important (and at times) more important than the specs of the internal chips.