Reliable PCMCIA wireless A/B adapter that won't break the bank?

[MichaelD]

I've inherited an old, but quite serviceable laptop. The only issue is that is has no wireless adapter. It does have a good, old PCMCIA slot.

Would someone please recommend a reliable, non-fancy PCMCIA Wireless A/B adapter? I just want something with decent range that won't crap out after a week. Thanks much!

 

[erwos]

I find it fascinating that you want an "A/B" adapter. Do you really have an 802.11a-capable access point?

 

[MichaelD]

Yep, I do. Though it doesn't run at that speed. I want this adapter for when I travel. "B" is the most widely used standard at hotels worldwide. "G" is out there, but not everywhere.
Forget about "N."

Now that I think about it, "G" is out there too. I run "G" at home. MaxG, to be exact.

This laptop is old and I'm not too concerned about it getting stolen or damaged; my good laptop stays at home; I just need a way to get it on the internet. A laptop that can't connect to the 'net is a paperweight.

 

[spyordie007]

You can get Cisco CB21AG adapters off eBay for pretty cheap (~$35).

 

[MichaelD]

Thanks, spyordie007. I'll check that out.

 

[Rottie]

I had Airlink+ PCMCIA wireless cards (B and G) that does a good job for internest I paid those cards for less than 20.00 at Fry's store. Wireless B card lacks WPA but G comes with both WEP and WPA for wireless security.

 

[MichaelD]

Thanks, Rottie. I don't have a Fry's or Best Buy anywhere near me, unfortunately.

I wound up going w/this card; it had good reviews.

Text

 

[spyordie007]

Originally posted by: MichaelD
Thanks, Rottie. I don't have a Fry's or Best Buy anywhere near me, unfortunately.

I wound up going w/this card; it had good reviews.

Text

Yuck, B/G only, 15dBm transmitter and no WPA2?

I thought you were looking for a *good* card 😛

 

[JackMDS]

I got this card few weeks ago on sale for $9.99.

It does WPA2, and it has drivers for Vista (that is why I got it, coz I have 4 PCMCIA cards that do not do Vista).

It works OK, it is No better or worse than any other decent card of this class.

BTW do not count on NewEgg specification page most of the time it partial info and sometime even a little off.

When finally focus on a possible purchase I always go to the Data Sheet of the manufacturer to make sure what is the current updated info.

 

[MichaelD]

I actually did read the data sheet first. 🙂

I was pleased w/what I saw. And, for $24 (shipped) I am pleased so far. We'll see how pleased I am when I get it.

The reviews on Newegg looked favorable and this card is for a laptop that will be seldomly-used. Basically, it's a "don't care if they steal it" laptop for travel use, just so I can get on the net and check email. 🙂 The good laptop stays at home so the wife can use Messenger in the living room. :roll:

99% of the time, hotel networks are wide open, so WPA2 doesn't even come into play here. Hopefully, I'll be happy w/it.