Antenna extension

[DanieM]

Hi,

I am living in an area that does not have a very reliable and strong MTN signal. I found that if I move my laptop (AirCard 775) around a bit, I do get better signal strengths in certain parts of our home (especially outside). My question is whether there is one or more of the following options available and, if so, what is the cost of these:
1) Relay cable / extension cable to put the existing antenna in a better position while connected to the AirCard 775 via this relay cable;
2) Extended antenna/amplifier for the AirCard 775 that is directly connected to the card, but improves signal strength;
3) External (outside use) antenna connected to the AirCard via a relay cable; or
4) Another solution that could solve the problem.

Thanks!

 

[DanieM]

Sorry, should have added that I just used a friend's MTN aircard to test the facility and I am currently not subscribed to any wireless service -- just trying to find the best solution.

 

[grubsner]

Hi Danie

Welcome to MyADSL!

Not sure what the AirCard edge connector looks like but have a look at this thread for some info. It refers to the Novatel card but still educational:

http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php?t=26593

You could also invest in a small external antenna that hooks onto the Laptop screen. These are available for the Novatel. Not sure about the Aircard though

 

[DanieM]

Thanks grubsner -- the Novatel card seems to be ahead at this stage. Any idea on whether the small (laptop screen) antenna is commercially available already?

 

[grubsner]

The small external antenna is available free if you have purchased a Novatel card. I have no idea whether a similar antenna exists for the Air Card.

 

[nicovdw]

Free Antenna

From where????

 

[3G4me]

From where????

Vodacom have just (on the 27th Oct05) confirmed that the laptop antennas for the novatel card will be available once again early November (having discontinued them temporarily). Should be free, but not confirmed at this stage.

They are also launching the new 'Option Quad lite' card (quad band, and without alll the driver difficulties experienced with novatel) on 1 Nov05, should be in the stores 2Nov05... these come complete with the antenna in the box.

Your closest Vodashop should be able to supply these, or try the walk-in customer care centres. If u aren't near any of the above, call 082 155.

 

[Windlass]

Would Vodacom upgrade our Novatel cards???

 

[Windlass]

I got a antenna that looks a bit like a TV antenna from Smartfit at Vodaworld that has helped me a lot. I had to take my card and the antenna to a cable place in Midrand to have a plug fitted but it solved my problem. Cost of antenna was around R250 all together.