Range expander or AP or better Router?

[BoboKatt]

Hi all,
I am currently using a DLink D1-624 wireless router. The office is huge but I was able to get decent reception on everything by buying these directional antennas from Dlink and all has been well. Lately I have added a DLINK DMS-320 media player. The issue is that it's getting crap for reception and the spot it's at is simply not viable to move.

I am still iffy and reading about access points or range expanders (still working the difference between them) or using a router as a repeater. Might I ask here what folks would suggest... from say just getting a new router like a Belkin pre-N one and knowing that even with my current wireless PCI cards I will get better range and speed. Or should I just try and find an AP or repeater and add it to my network. I would not know which brand would work with my Dlink and I would assume that if I were to say get one from Linksys I will say goodbye to the XtremeG 108 Dlink enhancement. Any other suggestions? Is there a dif between a repeater or a range expander or an AP LOL?? What would be simplest and would give me the best speed possible and connection strength for that Media player that is so far away?

Thanks
Rob

 

[JackMDS]

Access Point is a Wireless Device that can be configured in few modes; one of them is usually a Repeater Mode.

Extender is a Marketing word to a Device that is only a Repeater (kind of ?castrated? Access Point). They are usually a waste of money since they cost the same as an Access Point and they lack the flexibility of an Access Point

Link to: Wireless Network - Configuration Modes.

The best Method to Extend Wireless Coverage depends heavily on the Specific Environment.

Look at these pages they describe most of the options that are within the means of Entry Level users, and choose the one that fits you environment best.

Link to: Extending the Distance of Entry Level Wireless Network.

Link to: Wirelessly Bridging Home / Network.

On MIMO - http://www.ezlan.net/faq#MIMO

:sun: