Getting connected with wireless is not complicated, but it does require a few more items as compared to a standard internet connection. Here is the low-down on what is required for wireless internet connectivity.
- AntennaThis item can range in size from a white box that's about 4 X 2 inches to a dish type antenna that is comparable in size to some digital satellite dishes. The size of the antenna that you will need will depend on how far away you live from a distribution point.
- RadioMost of the radios are now integrated with the antenna. The type of radio depends on what type of service you are getting (2.4ghz, 5.3ghz, 5.8ghz ot 900mhz).
- Ethernet Client BridgeThe Ethernet Client Bridge converts the wireless signal into Ethernet (TCP/IP) The bridge connects to single computer or a router and computer network using Cat5 cabling. On most installations this functionality is integrated into the electronics inside the antenna.
- CablingMost installations are now done with CAT5e cabling and a POE (power over ethernet) injector. The POE box is plugged into a power outlet and delivers electricity to the radio across this line. The POE box can then be connected via CAT5e into a single computer's ethernet adapter or into a firewall/router, this allows one or many computers to be connected to the internet.
Depending on your location, an integrated antenna/radio/bridge may be used. This device contains all the required gear in a weatherproof housing. It can be mounted up to 300 feet away from your computer and uses standard category 5 network cable instead of coax.
Connecting multiple computers requires a router/firewall and computers equipped with 10/100 base T network cards. Wireless networking within your home or office is possible with a wireless router/firewall and additional PC card radios.
Network cards, router/firewalls and additional radios are sold separately.
