An antenna changes radio signals in the air into electricity, or vice versa. Antennas send signals, receive signals, or both. All NETGEAR wireless devices have an antenna, either a visible pole on the outside, or inside where you do not see it.
The distance that an antenna sends (transmits) depends on the type, and the amount of power running through it.
However, the distance from which an antenna can receive (or to be more exact, how faint a signal it can receive) is not based on power, but on how sensitive it is.
Therefore, how far apart two antennas communicate depends on how powerful the transmitter is, as well as how sensitive the receiver's antenna is. (For example, NASA can hear signals from the Mars Rover not because it has a powerful antenna, but because its signal is received on massive, very sensitive antennas.)
The amount of power that antennas are allowed to transmit is regulated by the country you live in. Many people in a city must use the same antenna channels, and no one can use a signal that is so strong it stops everybody else from being able to use it!
That means to get better performance, networking companies like NETGEAR need to work smarter with the same signal strength. This is why NETGEAR products like RANGEMAX are so outstanding.
What direction is the antenna most powerful and sensitive?
The shape that antennas transmit, and the shape of their sensitivity is complicated. In the beginning, it will be easiest to find out by trial-and-error. After a little experience, read the articles and links in Improving wireless range
Why do some products have multiple antennas?
Products with more sophisticated technology use multiple antennas for various reasons, usually having to do with avoiding interference, and increasing transmission throughput.
Can I change the antenna?
Most home NETGEAR products do not have changeable antennas. More expensive products may have them, however picking the correct ones requires care, and you must follow the regulations set forth by the appropriate governing body (in North America, the FCC). For the beginning network customer, buying an access point may be a better choice.
N101529.asp Aug. 25, 2005