Wireless Networking HTPC???? Help..

[nataz6]

Hi,

I'm going to build a HTPC in the next few weeks and was looking for advice on wireless network. I want to be able to surf the net and transfer files from my other pc wireless. I have a Netcomm NB1300 Plus 4 ADSL1 router. Whats the best way about this? New wireless router? network bridge? My knowledge on this is very slim and wanting to keep the cost down and wanting a reliable unit.

Thanks in advance

[Fazz1977]

Linksys. They're made by Cisco, who make about the best networking gear out there.

I have the WAG54GP2. I'm considering moving to N-band though so I can stream HD content.

For every day use 802.11g would be perfect for your needs, but if you want to stream HD from another machine, you'd need something 802.11n. There was a decent linksys one on catchoftheday.com.au a few weeks back for about $100.

[nataz6]

Thanks Fazz,

How about this one Linksys WRT54GL Wireless-G Broadband Router, and Wireless-G Access Point
Internet Price: $68.00 at Umart?

Do I use this solely or through my existing router? I only have ADSL1 atm (regional vic) but maybe ADSL2 in the future. Will this do both?

Also what network card will I need for the HTPC?

Sorry about the noob questions but I have little knowledge on wireless and having a hard time doing searches for answers

[ApoLakay]

Originally Posted by nataz6

Thanks Fazz,

How about this one Linksys WRT54GL Wireless-G Broadband Router, and Wireless-G Access Point
Internet Price: $68.00 at Umart?

Do I use this solely or through my existing router? I only have ADSL1 atm (regional vic) but maybe ADSL2 in the future. Will this do both?

Also what network card will I need for the HTPC?

Sorry about the noob questions but I have little knowledge on wireless and having a hard time doing searches for answers

Few suggestions:

(1) Google "how to set-up home network". You should be able to pick up a few tips on the principles of home networking.

(2) Once you have a bit of background on "home networking" download the user guide from here (if you decided in getting a Lynksys). I am using Dlink so I can't comment in the user-friendliness of Linksys. Read the guide and if you think that the step by step instruction is easy enough than that's about it - go ahead.

Things you would require:

(1) Wireless router - to be connected to your Modem
(2) Wireless network card (like this) to be installed in your HTPC. I assumed that your modem is connected to a different system at the moment.

Your current modem (Netcomm NB1300 Plus 4 ADSL1) I think can actually be used for wired network. Just need a network cable to connect it to the back of your HTPC. You can buy pre-terminated cable in various sizes. Network is possible without buying additional hardware with this set-up, but it you want wireless, then you need the 2 items listed.

Word of caution: Wireless network are proven in some instances to interfere with other HTPC functions/parts (2.4GHz wireless keyboard, for instance). Even FTA transmission. Some even say that flourescent lamp can affect it. So proceed with caution. It's good for file transfer in between your home PC & internet browsing but not stable enough for video streaming (specially HD) IMHO.

You might find threads that might interest you in here

[gotkids]

I have a Billion 7404VGO modem router and my media centre connects to it using a Linksys WPM54G card, this works well, can stream SD stuff fine but struggles with HD. I recently put a WMP300N card into my wifes PC and its an excellent Draft N adapter, really good signal strength. I would definitely bypass 802.11g and go straight to Draft N. I recommend going with Linksys gear (its made by cisco afterall). WRT310N router ($160) and WMP300N card ($90). The router has 4 Gigabit network ports built in so you'll have plenty of bandwidth for those large file transfers over the wire and the draft N wireless makes a huge difference compared to 802.11g.

[nataz6]

Thanks for your replies, much appreciated

Things are clearing up with what I need now.

Not to get myself confused but I currently have ADSL1 (regional vic, telstra has ADSL2 in my area but too pricey and haven't opened up to other resellers as yet) and in the future would like to get ADSL2 when it becomes affordable in my area.

Is it possible to buy a wireless modem/4 port router that supports ADSL1 and 2? It may save me from double spending when wanting to upgrade to ADSL2. If this is possible can you still plug one pc in by ethernet and other wireless? As I'd like to keep my main pc ethernet (to save buying a wireless card for it) and the HTPC wireless.

Also the N wireless sounds like a good idea to future proof myself when I get the speed

If all was easy and my missus would let me run a bloody ethernet straight to the HTPC I wouldn't have any of this trouble, She doesn't like the look of wall plates or power points so wireless it is

[ApoLakay]

Originally Posted by nataz6

Not to get myself confused but I currently have ADSL1 (regional vic, telstra has ADSL2 in my area but too pricey and haven't opened up to other resellers as yet) and in the future would like to get ADSL2 when it becomes affordable in my area.
(

Should work on both.

Originally Posted by nataz6

Is it possible to buy a wireless modem/4 port router that supports ADSL1 and 2? It may save me from double spending when wanting to upgrade to ADSL2. If this is possible can you still plug one pc in by ethernet and other wireless? As I'd like to keep my main pc ethernet (to save buying a wireless card for it) and the HTPC wireless.
(

It's 4 port, so you can have up to 4 wired connection. As for the wireless part, you can share it with your neighbour if you want to.

[bobafett_h]

I'd buy a whole new wireless modem router. The Linksys WAG160N is a good router that supports draft N and ADSL2+. Even though N has not been finalised as a standard yet, it is very close to it and Linksys seem to have one of the better versions of it that should work with wireless N adaptors that are built into modern notebook computers.

You will then of course need a match wireless adaptor for the computer. PCI adaptors are generally better than the USB ones, and it is best to use the same brand as what you use for the router. And all modems that support ADSL2+ can support ADSL1 if that is what your current connection is.

[nataz6]

Well I'd like to say many thanks to the users of AMCC

I'm clear on what I need and appreciate all your help.

Cheers

[bigbaron]

wireless HTPC to wireless Laptop for file transfer will be very slow, dont even think about transferring a raw MCE Recording. If its just surfing and VNC or similiar, then ok.

I'd try ur best to get a cable from your HTPC to the ADSL router.