Re: ???
Danster:
7 miles is quite a long way for you to hook up to your own network !
A wireless network comprises of a Base Station or Access Point commonly referrred to as an AP, this sends out signals;like a radio transmitter.
You also require a receiver/transmitter to pick up and send signals back to the Base Station.
If you buy an iBook or a Powerbook thes will come with an Airport card which currently runs 802.11g and the older b protocol. The current unmodified range of 802.11g is around 50 to 100 foot depending on the local conditions.
You can however buy a 802.11 pre-N card and AP which will extend the range of 802.11g by about 8 x's, it will also be about 6 x's faster.
That still only gives you about 400 feet to a maximum of around 1200 feet, which is not bad. If you lived on the top of a hill you'd get even further !
802.16 is rumoured to be able to give around 20 to 30 kilometers range. But I have not heard much about it recently. Again that would be a new card and AP.
Another way of extending the range would be to have a play around with the types of Aerial's being used. Have a search for "
Pringles can antenna". A cheap, directional antenna. If you rip your newly bought AP to bits, or if you have an external aerial connector then you can make or buy your own aerial and stick it up in your loft to extend your coverage. You could also add a wirless
extender /
booster, this can give you upto 50 miles coverage - not sure on the legal aspects/license for this !!
Have not tried most of the above myself. I wonder how well that big extender would work?
Anyhoo, you're not going to get your 7 mile link up without a lot of hassle/expense...
...but wait, there may be another way...will post FAQ in Airport Forum !