Upgrading laptop WiFi?

[JC]

I'd like to increase the wifi range on my new laptop. Not sure why, but the range it currently has is absolutely horrible.

Looking around online, there seems to be a horde of aftermarket antennas available... but they all look like the standard antenna wires to me. I want an antenna that will increase my reception, not keep it the same.

Anyone have any experience with these things?

[Bob]

Pop the cover and make sure the existing cables are plugged in to the card.

then assume your wifi card is bad and get one under warranty.

[JC]

Thanks. Pretty sure the card is good as it picks up fine within normal ranges. Just can not pick up a weaker signal with it the same as I can with my better laptop (this is a cheap Presario). Figure it has a cheap card that I might could help out with a better antenna or a better card.
Dunno... pretty clueless with laptop stuffs.

The wifi adapter is upto date if you were wondering.

[JC]

After reading several great reviews, I ended up picking one of these upwww.amazon.com/Alfa-AWUSO36NH-Wireless-Long-Rang-Network/dp/B0035APGP6
with one of thesestore.rokland.com/products/alfa-7-dbi-gain-rp-sma-directional-panel-antenna-apa-m04

Can get strong signals with it that the laptop can not even pick up.

[Bob]

very cool!