Belkin wireless dongle - rubbish

[SpikeyBush]

I have two of these. Both are rubbish. One is on my computer in Ireland, that connection kept hanging and the computer needed restarting, sometimes twice, for it to find the wireless network. The other is on my UK computer, I only rent that facility and it happened to come with the Belkin attachment. That is as rubbish as the one in Ireland despite the ISP being different.

For the record, my laptop and BlackBerry both connect perfectly first time every time to both wireless networks. I have moved both desktops close enough to the router to connect them with the wire instead and now the Belkin dongles now make good doorstops. In my opinion it is all they're good for. But can I find somewhere on Belkin's website to leave such feedback? Can I b@ll$!

[tamborine]

It depends on your local network. Mine works at work in town but not good at my home in the sticks.

[SpikeyBush]

Surely it shouldn't matter whether in town or country when the router you are trying to connect to is in the hallway???

[ChuckFickens]

Think tambo is getting confused between wireless dongles and mobile dongles.

Yes, USB dongles are often rubbish! partly because they only have tiny antennas inside them and also often because they are by the very nature of them hidden behind the metal case of the computer that acts as a lovely shield for the signal.

A short USB extension lead so the dongle can be raised up above the level of the computer can often help the latter problem.

http://www.amazon.co....id=1310541658&sr=8-30

[TTG]

My Dads connection is better using a very long usb extension lead hanging on a hook near upstairs window! Luckily the room is perfect as a study.

[SpikeyBush]

Thanks folks. I'll try it with an extension lead. But if that works, what will I use to stop the doors banging in the wind?

[SpikeyBush]

TTG, Perfect. Since following your tip the connection has been far more reliable!

Many thanks indeed.

Now, off to the pound shop for some doorstops!