Client units (Linksys) compatible with Star-OS AP?

[dgj]

Hi,

I've deployed plenty of Star-OS boxes as Access Points, but only deployed CPEs that use Atheros mini-pci chipsets, in PC boxes. I've never deployed an alternative CPE such as an off the shelf unit eg: Linksys 54G.

Can someone please let me know if this is common, and if so, what (if any) are the limitations with this scenario. Star-OS Access Point with either Prism or Atheros chipset ------------------> clients with off the shelf units with cables running to external high gain antennas (most distances at a mile or two, and considerig some at 5 or more miles - same hardware scenario).

I am curious to know if I can still utilize the full suite of Star-OS functions at my AP given this common CPE.
As an aside, does anyone know if there is a limit to the size of client dish I can plug into a Linksys unit. I am concerned the unit may not be able to support an 18dBi panel or larger grid at the client end.
Thanks.

[wwalcher]

Can someone please let me know if this is common, and if so, what (if any) are the limitations with this scenario. Star-OS Access Point with either Prism or Atheros chipset ------------------> clients with off the shelf units with cables running to external high gain antennas (most distances at a mile or two, and considerig some at 5 or more miles - same hardware scenario).

I am curious to know if I can still utilize the full suite of Star-OS functions at my AP given this common CPE.
As an aside, does anyone know if there is a limit to the size of client dish I can plug into a Linksys unit. I am concerned the unit may not be able to support an 18dBi panel or larger grid at the client end.
Thanks.

Your above reference is very common. I would say it is the norm for many WISPs, including myself. As my recent post in this forum addressed, you do have more restricted distance issues when you use the off-the-shelf 802.11g bridges (somewhere less than 2 miles, according to my limited testing - I was hoping to get some responses to my post, but have none so far) than when you use 802.11b bridges, most of which can go over 10 miles with proper LOS and antenna size.

A common client bridge used in 802.11b deployments is the Senao CB3, which has a 200mw radio, providing a stronger signal. Using this radio, I am often able to place the bridge and antenna in the client's attic instead of having to put it on the roof.

Regarding the size of antenna the Linksys bridge will handle, it will handle whatever antenna you want to use.

[billr]

If you haven't found this..........................

You may find this interesting.
It is a whole sub-forum using heavily modified Linksys and similar gear rather like a cut-down StarOS.
I am testing a WRT 54 G with custom firmware on it, as a client for my StarOS AP.
You have to (I think) pay $20 for the year but you get a lot of custom firmware..

http://www.sveasoft.com/modules/phpBB2/index.php

VERY interesting stuff, trying to do with modified commercial boxes what we do with StarOS.

EDIT - regarding antenna size etc, there is no reason I am aware of to restrict antennas for the WRT 54 G and similar units - except to keep within your country's regulations of course..

[wwalcher]

Yes, this is an interesting project. I messed around with it last night with a ver 1 WRT54G. If they can really get the ACK timing figured out for long distances and get the xmit power increase to work (it did not seem to make any difference last night), you have an excellent 802.11g client for around $60.

[billr]

I see the power increase as they say, appear on my StarOS AP...

The main problem they have as you say seems to be ack over long distance links (to do with a binary closed source driver I think)..
It is no match for full StarOS but is a solution to many other problems IMO.

A couple of asides ...
I have used both a DWL 2000 AP and a DWL 2100 AP in wireless client mode as CPE - works fine , BUT are rather expensive.
The trusty old WET 11 also works but can be tempremental..

As you know there are plenty of solutions for CPE other than full StarOS intalls..
Cheers.