Netgear WGU-624 Wireless Router and WG511T PC Card - WG511T Wireless PC Card

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This PC card allows one to wirelessly connect a computer to the router via an available PC Card (formerly known as PCMCIA) slot. It communicates on the 802.11b and 802.11g protocols. When used in conjunction with another Netgear “Super G” device, it can operate at up to 108Mbps.

It has an integrated antenna—no connections for an external antenna, and it sticks 1 ¼” out of the slot, so one might need to take some care when moving the laptop around.

Windows XP recognizes the device upon plugging in, but XP's wireless networking wizard might not be able to set the device up.

Netgear provided their own installation and “Smart Wizard” software, which simplifies installation and setup, though there are a few bugs. For instance, when setting up the connection using the wizard, if you use other than 64-bit encryption, the wizard will save your key(s) under 64-bit encryption, so you will have to reenter the key(s) under the proper encryption scheme and resave the profile.

Range and reception

Here’s where the good news is—this PC card/router combo has outstanding range. In my living room, separated by about 30ft and at least four walls from the router, I get a 50% signal. The card detects several networks in my neighborhood (at 30% or greater), none of which are any closer than two houses away from mine. I have a 30% signal some 70ft away, inside a sheet steel shed, and 30% across the street from the house, with the router behind at least four walls, including a brick façade.

The signal is slightly stronger when running in the 108Mbps “Super G” mode, which can only be achieved by the use of two Super G Netgear devices.

Summary

If you are looking for a wireless PC Card for IEEE 802.11g, then the WG511T is a smart buy at less than $30 shipping included via eBay.

Regarding the WGU-624 wireless router, it’s a good machine, and a good deal, as long as you know what you are getting into… Netgear’s online support is decent, but they will only go so far.

If you are looking for a good wireless kit and can get a good deal for the lot (do shop for wireless kits, they would likely be cheaper), then this may be the thing for you. I think I spent a combined $70 for the two units via eBay. Compare that to what may be available at your local *mart or computer depot.