Re: [Madwifi-users] [off-topic] questions on atheros b/g (or a/b/g) cards

[Michael R. <ma...@no...>]

Hi.

Jack McDermot wrote:
> Can I successfully use one of these cards in a thinkpad _without a 
> built-in antenna_?

You have to distinct between two type of cards: MiniPCI and Cardbus.

MiniPCI are placed in a slot, which usually resides on the bottom of 
notebooks. They don't have their own antennas, so they need to get 
connected to at least one antenna. Since the card is completely 
internally (covered by the case of the notebook) you either need to have 
a built-in antenna or you have to place an antenna inside yourself 
(which most probably won't be possible without voiding waranty of the 
notebook).

If you don't have a built-in antenna your best bet is to use a Cardbus 
card. These cards can easily be placed into your notebook without the 
need to open the case. They come with their own antenna, and some of 
them even provide a connector to attach external antennas to achieve a 
better range.

In other words: it is possible to use (a)/b/g cards without having 
built-in antennas, you just have to choose the right type of cards.

Bye, Mike