My laptop integrated wireless is lightyears better than my desktop

[Ricochet]

I have 2 desktop computers with a Trendnet and a Netgear PCI adapter. Lately the reliability of both are questionable. I get slow download speed and even dropped signals every once in a while. I have DSL. During the winter months it rains a lot here so I was thinking maybe that's the culprit.

I bring out my Dell 700M laptop with the integrated Intel Pro Wireless and I get none of the problems I have above. The signal remains strong and never drops me. It just baffles me. The two dedicated desktop PCI adapters each have an antenna, while the laptop one is an integrated solution with no noticable antenna. Heck, I don't even know where the d@mn thing is located.

Is Intel wireless so much better than everyone elses?

 

[JackMDS]

The Intel Wireless Card might be a little better than the otker two, but!

The Laptop Antenna is encased in plastic, and probably has clear line of site to the Router.

Where the other Antennae are? Between the Metal Tower and the Wall?

 

[PowerYoga]

I noticed the same thing on my desktop, especially when it rains or when the microwave gets turned on. The desktop is sitting 2 full floors above the wireless router.

When I take my laptop upstairs I get the same dropped signals occasionally... Its the walls and extra interference. It can also be your neighbor's router interfering with your signal. I usually just switch channels to one that's more reliable, but I don't think you can avoid dropping connection once in a while when you're on wireless.

 

[Ricochet]

If the neighbor's router is interfering wouldn't that affect my laptop as well?

It doesn't matter where I place my laptop (even right on top of one of my desktop tower), it gets clear uninterupted signal.

I don't know if switching channel may help me out, but I'll give it a try.

I do know one thing, if next time I'm shopping for a wireless card I'm choosing Intel.