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Dongle signal booster ?

  • 28-03-2011 08:04AM
    #1
    flynnboy
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 358 ✭✭


    Hi

    Our Broadband is utter cxxp. x1 bar signal strength is average. We have o2 as that was our only option - nothing else worked.

    The connection cable is only about 2' long at the most, so a couple of things; is it possible to get a longer cable so I can move the dongle around searching for a better signal ? Is there such a thing as a signal booster ?

    So much for the 21stC :(

    Any help, advice appreciated.


Comments

  • #2
    watty
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 32,461 ✭✭✭✭watty


    1) The sytem never intended to be sold as Broadband. It's Mobile Internet.
    2) Yes you can get longer cables, though an external aerial maybe more useful. Not all longer USB cable solutions will work.
    3) Only outdoor aerial is legal. So called "signal boosters" are only intended to "pipe" 3G into underground car parks. They are illegal for anyone other than Operator and actually create a lot of interference if used above ground.


  • #3
    TV4Ever
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 26 ✭TV4Ever


    Are you certain that signal strength is your only problem? When you take the dongle to the window or outside does the signal strength improve? In addition, are you getting 3G coverage? If you are getting 2G or possible EDGE on O2, then don't expect 3G/HSPA speeds even with a stronger signal.

    If you are getting 3G/HSPA coverage and you know that a point in the house gets reasonable signal then you could try a WiFi device - leave it there and connect via WiFi - assuming the PC/laptop/device you use is WiFi enabled or has a WiFi adaptor. If you try the Hotshot - make sure you get the cradle - I know this was being included for free. You should be able to take one home to try it to see if there is an improvement - ring the store first to make sure they have one to save a wasted trip.


  • #4
    CSU
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 459 ✭✭CSU


    I had about 6 months of mobile-internet horror, like you it was my only option at the time.

    My solution was simple allbeit OTT, it worked like a charm.

    What you'll need is:

    1 X old PC (I used an old netbook)
    1 X Satellite Dish (seriously)
    1 X attic space or high ground to set-up

    see where I'm going with this???:rolleyes:

    The netbook's wifi card (or PC) can be set to relay the signal, simply pop the dongle in-place of the LNB on the dish and whalla!

    Takes a minute or two to get 100% signal - a bit of messing about - but it worked for me ;)


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