Many users have felt frustrated by the limited range of their 2.4-GHz 802.11 wireless-local-area-network (WLAN) access points and bridges. Luckily, improvement options have begun to appear. Users could, for example, install a higher-gain antenna like the APXtender from Pacific Wireless. Such indoor-range-extender antennas are designed to boost the range of common wireless hardware systems.
The company offers a wide range of antennas for fixed-wireless and mobile applications in the 900-MHz, 2.4-GHz, and 5.8-GHz frequency bands. Its indoor antennas are designed for use in both omnidirectional and unidirectional scenarios. Take the 2.4-GHz APXtender, 6-dBi desktop directional antenna. Known as the PAWIN24-6DD, it offers both high gain for improved performance and signal directivity for increased security. To keep it stable on the desktop, it has a weighted base with rubber feet. The PAWIN24-6DD can be mounted to ceilings, walls, or inside windows using the single-screw-attach feature in the base. It also folds for easy storage in a laptop case. This antenna's 5-ft.-tall profile is attractively designed in a smooth, molded plastic.
The 6-dBi APXtender Indoor Directional Antenna is used to extend the range of indoor access points or client bridges in 802.11 2.4-GHz wireless-LAN environments. It transmits a signal that can be concentrated where it's most needed, thereby eliminating most external interference. The antenna features an 80° horizontal-transmission and 60° vertical-transmission pattern. The transmit/receive element can be tilted in relation to the base. It can then direct the signal to where it's most needed.
The antenna system requires only 10 W of input power. It operates in the 2400-to-2485-MHz frequency range. The unit is supplied with 1.5 m (59 in.) of cable, which can be terminated with RPSMA, MC Card, MMCX, or RP TNC connectors. Other connector types are available upon request. To eliminate any concern over cable loss, the gain is specified at the connector.
The 6-dBi APXtender Indoor Directional Antenna is available now. It regularly sells for $50 per unit. Because 802.11b/g systems employ bidirectional technologies, users may need to increase the antenna gain on both sides of the wireless link.
Pacific Wireless
693 E. Draper Heights Way, Suite 210, Draper, UT 84020; (801) 572-3024, FAX: (801) 572-3025, www.pacwireless.com.
