Netgear WG511T 108 Mbps Wireless PC Card

Pros: Great range, finds networks other popular cards miss. Beta software upgrade gives good information and control. Locks onto networks other cards were dropping.

Cons: Greater antenna extension encourages damage. LED flash in pattern different from familiar data stream flicker.

Summary: I own two other cards, a Linksys WPC54G and a 54G Motorola card. They are all good cards with each having certain endearing features. The Netgear card undisputably has the best range and sensativity. I have read some negative reviews on the Netgear WG511T and I had some trepidation while waiting for delivery. Fortunately I had no trouble whatsoever with the installation and within under five minutes I was up and running easily hitting my fairly well secured Linksys router and several other neighboring networks that I did not even know existed. I often use my notebook in a downtown area covered by public access wifi. Although the signal was strong, my Linksys card frequently dropped the signal or it would bounce between 1 MBS and 11 MBS. The dropping problem improved significantly with a software upgrade but I did not understand what was going on until I bought the Netgear card. Using the Netgear's newest Beta software I was able to see that my office is located between three points of transmission. All of the points were set to channel 1 with the same SID name. The Linksys card, for whatever reason would drop the strongest signal and scan for the weaker ones from time to time. The Netgear card and software allowed me to lock onto the stongest signal point and resolved my connection stability issue. Overall any quibbles I have with this card are minor. I find that the data transfer rate between my Linksys Router and Linksys card seems to be very slightly higher when the two are used together. However, whenever I leave home it is the Netgear card that I'm going to be carrying.