What Are Computer Signal Boosters?

Signal boosters add strength to various wireless connections.

Wireless telegraphs have led to several advances in the telecommunications industry. Wireless telecommunications have freed people from a wired world; people are no longer bound by cables and wire to use various telecommunications devices. Wireless Internet connections are a popular way to surf the Web and lets users access the Internet wherever a signal is emitted. However, some wireless router signals do not have a high enough signal for peak performance. Signal boosters were created to aid poor performing signals in making wireless connections faster and more reliable.

Types of Boosters

Wireless signal boosters, as with any other technological piece of equipment, have more than one variation. Reflector shields are placed behind the router to filter out interference from other wireless equipment, such as telephones, resulting in a stronger signal that may even reach a longer distance. Repeaters are placed close to the router, renewing the wireless signal continuously and extending the travel distance of the signal, while still maintaining good signal quality.

Antennas

Antenna signal boosters are connected directly onto the computer via a USB port or other type of wireless adapter. These types of boosters expand the range of the adapter by filtering the signal, resulting in a higher quality signal. Routers typically have a removable antenna that can be upgraded for around $10 (at time of publication). You can even make a homemade antenna using a metal strainer.

Shopping Tips

Before shopping for a wireless signal booster, consider the computer make, model and wireless card brand. Not all signal boosters are not compatible will all computer models. If you go to a store to buy a signal booster, ask the sale representative which products work with your particular computer. If you are buying it online, research the product before you buy it to make sure it is compatible.

Considerations

Wireless signal boosters are good primarily for increasing the signal distance and quality. For example, repeaters can boost the signal strength up to three times its normal strength. However, damage from a homemade antenna may result in a voided extended warranty or manufacturer’s warranty. Cost is another benefit; there are many inexpensive antennas you can use to boost your signal. Other types of signal boosters range between $50 and $100 (at time of publication).

References

• Ask Bob Rankin: 10 Ways to Boost a WiFi Signal
• Microsoft: 10 Tips to Help Improve Your Wireless Network