<< So can this be boguht online? I'm pretty sure I want to get that access point, but the problem is that I'm not sure about the wireless card. Does this card sound good? If not, which manufacturer do you guys recommend overall as making the best wireless cards for a laptop? BTW thx for the link . >>
Wasn't sure if this was meant for me. But I'll answer from my experience.
AP's, I have an Cisco AeroNet, Apple Airport Hacked and a SMCAWBR7004.
I like them in that order. The Hacked (replaced internal card with Orinoco Gold and Attached range extender) being pretty much tied on the Cisco. Feature set a better on the Cisco.
The SMC has horrible performance. The range is good on it. I've noticed if using a switch port and Wireless Transfer, links will drop on either or both side.
In terms of Cards. I've only used Orinoco Golds/Silver/Bronze, Netgear and Aeronet cards. They have great range, and driver support. Very good drivers for Cisco and Orinocos. They have "profiles", so you can use various AP's with just a change on the Driver Client.
The Netgear lacked features I liked in the Orinoco and Aeronet. Range is not as good either.
I like Orinoco better just because they are good with software updates and I use to work for Lucent . Also you can attach range extenders on Orinocos. Aeronet design on the card is better, not sharp edges.
The Ciscos, I've seen for about $75 from Dell, buy the Dell OEM with the discounts. Orinoco's go for about $120, but you might find a better deal, haven't looked recently.