Optimal settings for the old IBM 11abg (Atheros AR5001X+)?

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I have two T42s, one with the Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG and another equipped with the 1st gen. IBM 11abg (Atheros AR5001X+ / 91P7301).
The 2200bg card seems to have better sensitivity, since it is capable to pick and log on to more weak g-type Access Points than the Atheros card.

The Atheros card only picks up the strong AP signals, but seems to fluctuate speed less than 2200bg when it has logged on to a AP.

I'm using Network Stumbler, WiFi Hopper and the "latest" Atheros drivers from IBM. I've also checked to antenna connections.


Is this behavior consistent with other users of the 1st gen. IBM 11abg and 2200bg?


Any advice on optimal settings for this Atheros AR5001+ card to improve sensitivity?

[sjthinkpader]

If you are not using 11a, you may want to reduce the 5.8Ghz power to the lowest setting.

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If you are not using 11a, you may want to reduce the 5.8Ghz power to the lowest setting.

Does this improve the Atheros card's sensitivity detecting weak 802.11g Access Points?

Where is the option to specifically reduce 5.8Ghz/802.11a power?

[Ralf Hutter]

I have two T42s, one with the Intel PRO/Wireless 2200BG and another equipped with the 1st gen. IBM 11abg (Atheros AR5001X+ / 91P7301).
The 2200bg card seems to have better sensitivity, since it is capable to pick and log on to more weak g-type Access Points than the Atheros card.

I agree 100%. I have two t42p + 2200BG and two t42p with the 91P7301 cards. The 2200BGs definitely pick up weak APs better than the Atheros cards, but the Atheros cards seem a bit more stable in the long term.

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Just as I suspected. I was hoping that there was some way I could boost the 11abg card to match the 2200BG's sensitivity.

Another thing, my wireless download speed seems to top at ~500 Kb/s. Is this signal strength related or can I configure my wifi card (i.e. 2200BG) to go faster?