Remote Locations – making the connection

There are often situations whereas you have a computer that is so distant from the router that the signal can’t reach – or is very poor.
Such as router on third floor – computer in basement. Sure, you try fishing 30-40 ft of Cat5 down to it, but there is a much easier way. Power-line Ethernet adapters.

It could not be simpler to extend the range of your network. These are sold in kits so you receive two units which are exactly the same. Plug one into a wall outlet where the router / modem is located – run a cat5 cable from the router and plug it into the adapter:

Take the other unit to the location you need computer / internet access to, and plug it into the wall. Then run another cat5 cable from the adapter to your computer:

You could also plug in another router to the second adapter and have WiFi throughout the area.

So if for example, you have a distant outbuilding, or a multi – level house  - and your router just can’t penetrate the walls, the signal is weak, or the distance too great … this is a very good solution.

Keep in mind that when using this system, both adapters must be on the same electrical circuit - meaning the same service panel - not the same circuit breaker. It works on any outlet in my house no matter where it is.

You can add as many of these as you want. I bought the NetGear version, but they are made by several vendors. Really simplifies those hard to reach areas.

Link below:

Turn Your Windows 7 laptop into an access point - for free!

Another cool feature of Win7 ... it can become a wifi access point - for free!

Whats this mean for EVDO users? It means you can use an aircard/modem in your laptop and, using the built in wifi adapter you already have ... you become a hotspot for other wifi enabled devices - no router needed. And full security.

How? Windows 7 had the capability to do this, but never offered the software in the final product.

Well, a company has stepped up and made it available.







I've been running this for over 2 months, and it works great. Get the program here: http://www.connectify.me/

So hmm ... why pay $$$ for a MiFi device?  You now have the same capability with your own laptop.

Options to Sprint SmartView ... selecting EVDO Only mode.

Current versions of Sprint SmartView do not allow you to select EVDO Only mode - which can significantly increase your signal and speed if in a covered area.

The Work-Around.

For Sierra Wireless devices you want to download the program called "Watcher". This comes directly from the manufacturer of the modem.



Using this  you can select EVDO only.




For Novatel devices you use their own connection manager, Novatel Connection Manager:



Select your modem and get the SierraWireless " Watcher" HERE  ... under the drop box " Select Carrier" scroll to the bottom of that list and select "Other"

For Novatel  go HERE ...select your device and then the Novatel Connection Manager - NOT Sprint SmartView.

Now you CAN select EVDO Only for a connection.


A feather in my cap ...

 I'm not sure how many of you are familiar with Leo Laporte  " The Tech Guy",  but he has a nationally syndicated radio show based in Los Angeles that airs Saturday and Sunday.  link

Anyway, a caller made the comment that with my help, she was able to dramatically increase her signal. Leo pulled up my website (shown on his monitor) and spoke of how it was such a refreshing and informative contribution that folks like me enable - folks like you, to get connected and increase their internet experience. This is episode 593.

I am grateful to Leo for that "spotlight" and assure all of you I will continue to support your endeavors for broadband access, "tweaking" and tips .... and do so happily.

Thank YOU

Jim_in_VA

P.S. my web traffic increased 200% after that radio show.