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LinkSys WAP54GPE using an external 12dBi omni-directional antenna

I am setting up an Wi-Fi hot spot for a small resort, and have purchase the LinkSys WAP54GPE (power over ethernet weatherized unit), as well as a 12dBi omni. It seems that when I connect the omni my signal strength is less? Any ideas or has anyone worked with this particular unit before? Thanks for any assistance.

Irwin Santos

this is the appropriate antenna for your unit
http://www.linksys.com/servlet/Satellite?c=L_Product_C2&childpagename=US%2FLayout&cid=1115416829416&pagename=Linksys%2FCommon%2FVisitorWrapper

NetTechDude

You say " as well as a 12dBi omni. ". What 12dbi antenna ? Has ist a suitable working frequency (e.g. ch.11 in US or ch 13 in Europe). How long is it's cable ? With some cable dampening up do 15dB/m, there are cables of which you only need 3/4 of a meter to ruin all your 12db antenna gain.
Try a lower poer setting on the access point. Yes, you *can* overdrive wlan receivers so that they don't receive anything but noise. But with an omni antenna and reasonable distance from acces point to endpoint (10 meters), I doubt this is the problem. But try a lower power setting anyways.

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Irwin Santos

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ASKER

Hi guys,

Sorry about not getting back to you sooner, but I have been very busy. I did get the unit to work with the optional 12dBi omni-directional antenna that I purchased from Hyperlink. I never did find out what really happens to this LinkSys WAP54GPE when an external antenna is added (does the internal 8dBi antenna shut off or does any optional antenna just add to the signal spread.

Anyway thanks to all for your input.

Irwin Santos

cool. thanks... not sure about that one, but I'm thinking it replaces the output.