It's official! I hate this site!!!!

[cosmo115]

:lol: I was ready to purchase an N router (WRT150N) and N ethernet adapter (WGA600N), but now because of this site I'm considering getting a Sling Media - SlingLink Turbo PowerLine A/V Ethernet Adapter Kit and a router. :confused:

What routers work best with the SlingLink Turbo PowerLines? Would an N make a difference?


Can someone please make up my mind for me and come install everything. :rolleyes:

[Spanky_Partain]

Just send me your Visa/Master Card and I will take care of everything... :lol:

[California King]

Just get the most expensive one. :)

[bobnielsen]

The type of wireless (G/N, etc.) won't affect the powerline performance. I doubt if you will see any difference between HomePlug 1.0 Turbo (85 Mbps) and HomePlug A/V (200 Mbps) devices with On Demand, Media Share or (eventually) MRV, although I wouldn't recomment HomePlug 1.0 (14 Mbps).

[cosmo115]

Just send me your Visa/Master Card and I will take care of everything... :lol:

That's very kind of you.

Just get the most expensive one. :)

It's nice to make purchases without a budget.:p

The type of wireless (G/N, etc.) won't affect the powerline performance. I doubt if you will see any difference between HomePlug 1.0 Turbo (85 Mbps) and HomePlug A/V (200 Mbps) devices with On Demand, Media Share or (eventually) MRV, although I wouldn't recomment HomePlug 1.0 (14 Mbps).

Thanks. In that case, I can probably get the 1 port and the WRT54GL for under $120. Lots to think about (again).

[cruise350]

You should go with the N for future use. Speed is the need. Powerline is iffy at best and may not work in your house depending on the age and the way your wiring circuits are laid out. Go with the wrt300n and get a wireless N network bridge or gaming adaptor. Especially if you want to slingbox at higher resolutions. A g network isn't fast enough for high res slinging.

[Ken S]

Okay, time to man up and spend some money.

1. Buy a Homeplug A/V setup and see if it works. If it does you should have more than enough bandwidth. If it doesn't return it and ...

2. Buy a Wireless N setup. While 802.11g is the most common in use today you'll want the faster wireless within the next couple of years. There isn't that much difference in cost between g and n stuff nowadays.

=or=

Get your home cabled properly with Cat 5e (or better).

Mostly, stop the whining...crack open your wallet and spend some of that tax rebate money. It's not like we're talking about a frivolous purchase or anything...this is consumer electronics! :)

[Nick]

Mostly, stop the whining...crack open your wallet and spend some of that tax rebate money. It's not like we're talking about a frivolous purchase or anything...this is consumer electronics! :):flag: I hereby nominate Ken S for Secretary of the Economy...do I hear a second? :flag:

[cosmo115]

You should go with the N for future use. Speed is the need. Powerline is iffy at best and may not work in your house depending on the age and the way your wiring circuits are laid out. Go with the wrt300n and get a wireless N network bridge or gaming adaptor. Especially if you want to slingbox at higher resolutions. A g network isn't fast enough for high res slinging.

My house is just over 4 years old, but I was thinking the same thing before I came on. Is the WRT300N that much better than the WRT150N? Also what wireless N network bridges are there? I couldn't find any. FYI I was considering the WGA600N and getting a switch if I needed it in the future. I'm also hoping I get an HR21 with the extra ethernet port to buy me some time, even though I've seen a Linksys switch for $15 after rebate.

By the way, I have no need for a Slingbox since I would only need it to schedule. I was only considering the Slinglink because it's reasonable ($68) and it comes with everything I need but a router.

As of 9:24am(EST) I think I'm back on the N quest (for now at least). ;)

[Stuart Sweet]

Seriously, I have a slinglink turbo and it plays very nicely with my Linksys WRT54G.

[Doug Brott]

I do not have a Slinglink, but if it plays nicely in your house, I'd have to say it's the next best thing to having a network cable .. wireless will introduce other factors that will need to be considered for both setup and troubleshooting .. Good choice Cosmo.

[cosmo115]

I do not have a Slinglink, but if it plays nicely in your house, I'd have to say it's the next best thing to having a network cable .. wireless will introduce other factors that will need to be considered for both setup and troubleshooting .. Good choice Cosmo.

Thanks. Which choice is good? Where I started with Slinglink or where I will more than likely end up with an N router and N ethernet adapter? :confused:

[Tom Robertson]

Cosmo115, welcome to the forums! :welcome_s

You might want to consider the slingbox HD, coming out later this year... :)

[durl]

I can say Netgear works nicely. I use a wireless (g) router and my Slingbox connects to the router via a wireless print server.

[cosmo115]

Cosmo115, welcome to the forums! :welcome_s

You might want to consider the slingbox HD, coming out later this year... :)

Thank you! This is a great site with wonderful people! I just don't have any need for a Slingbox. :confused: (see second to last paragraph in post #9)

[Tom Robertson]

We're just trying to get your expenses on gear in line with the rest of ours. Next we'll have you looking at $10k front projectors (with the obligatory house renovation.) :)

[Ken S]

If it is of any help I have owned wireless equipment by all of the majors (Linksys, Dlink, Netgear, etc.) throughout the years and Netgear has been the most reliable over the long haul. Of course that could be just getting the good models and/or pure luck.
I've had great Linksys units and bad ones.

I was mostly kidding with you in my first post, but there are times when you can fall into paralysis by analysis when it comes to this type of decision. Generally, with computers/IT equipment there's never a perfect answer because there's so many ways of attacking a problem...and the best piece of equipment today is "old news and half the price" tomorrow. While you worry about all that type of stuff and continue to do research you miss out on the enjoyment you would have had of just going ahead with a solution.

[cosmo115]

If it is of any help I have owned wireless equipment by all of the majors (Linksys, Dlink, Netgear, etc.) throughout the years and Netgear has been the most reliable over the long haul. Of course that could be just getting the good models and/or pure luck.
I've had great Linksys units and bad ones.

I was mostly kidding with you in my first post, but there are times when you can fall into paralysis by analysis when it comes to this type of decision. Generally, with computers/IT equipment there's never a perfect answer because there's so many ways of attacking a problem...and the best piece of equipment today is "old news and half the price" tomorrow. While you worry about all that type of stuff and continue to do research you miss out on the enjoyment you would have had of just going ahead with a solution.

Thanks again! I agree. I'm in paralysis mode, although I think I feel my legs ;) and will continue with the N router and N adapter route since it will probably best in the long haul. I just need to decide between the Linksys WRT150N, 160N or 300N routers or if someone can point me to a Netgear N gaming adapter or bridge that works well with the HR2Xs, I might consider Netgear. FYI I couldn't find any and I don't want an N router and a G adapter.

[Doug Brott]

Thanks. Which choice is good? Where I started with Slinglink or where I will more than likely end up with an N router and N ethernet adapter? :confused:

Personally, I run network cable to all locations that need a network connection. I've found that to be the most reliable solution. A wireless connection will work and a Slinglink will work .. once set up and barring problems, wireless should be fine as well. It's when there are issues and troubleshooting in which you things just get slightly more complicated.

A Slinglink will be the next best thing to wired because it will be, well wired. Just plug and go for the most part. The Slinglink Turbo (or comparable product) is probably fine .. I've found that there is usually no need to go to the fastest unless it just makes you feel better. In that case, the added cost will be worth it to you and the faster link will be faster .. which is never a bad thing.

Just grab something off the shelf and if it works .. you're set.

[MartyS]

We're just trying to get your expenses on gear in line with the rest of ours. Next we'll have you looking at $10k front projectors (with the obligatory house renovation.) :)

Hey, don't forget to get him signed up for the complete Home Theater, THX experience, complete with movie posters and a popcorn machine! :rolleyes:

[Tom Robertson]

Yupper, that was coming. Have to ease him into it... :)

[MartyS]

Yupper, that was coming. Have to ease him into it... :)

If he doesn't dive in completely, then he'll just keep shivering... better to do it all at once and take the hassle from the SO then try to do it piecemeal... trust me... I know from experience!

[durl]

We're just trying to get your expenses on gear in line with the rest of ours. Next we'll have you looking at $10k front projectors (with the obligatory house renovation.) :)

mmmm....$10K front projectors with house renovation...

[Ken S]

Thanks again! I agree. I'm in paralysis mode, although I think I feel my legs ;) and will continue with the N router and N adapter route since it will probably best in the long haul. I just need to decide between the Linksys WRT150N, 160N or 300N routers or if someone can point me to a Netgear N gaming adapter or bridge that works well with the HR2Xs, I might consider Netgear. FYI I couldn't find any and I don't want an N router and a G adapter.

Do you have anything else near your DVR that will require network access? Video Game, A/V receiver, etc? If so get a Wireless Access Point and connect it to an inexpensive wired switch. That will make future hook-ups much easier.

I'm not sure if Netgear sells an "N" gaming adapter yet.

[cosmo115]

Do you have anything else near your DVR that will require network access? Video Game, A/V receiver, etc? If so get a Wireless Access Point and connect it to an inexpensive wired switch. That will make future hook-ups much easier.

I'm not sure if Netgear sells an "N" gaming adapter yet.


I do. I have Wii, but I'm hoping I'll get an HR21 so I can daisy chain the Wii to the gaming adapter. :)

Am I wrong or can't I hook a switch to the gaming adapter rather than buying a WAP and get the same effect? WAPs also appears to be quite expensive and the reviews for the only Linksys WAP (http://www.amazon.com/Linksys-Wireless-Access-Point-WAP4400N/dp/B000H46SVY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1203380537&sr=1-1) I was able to find are horrific across the board.

[cosmo115]

Can anyone please answer my question above?

[Spanky_Partain]

I have just purchased this puppy and waiting on arrival. It has 4 ports of 10/100 input and will TX/RX "N". Yes the TX/RX is faster than the port input, but the HR2x is only 10/100 anyway. I am needing the better distance performance provided by the "N" and I like upgrading. Heck I might just go ahead and get electricity and plumbing put in this year. :D

Link to SMC Network Ethernet Client (http://www.newegg.com/product/product.aspx?Item=N82E16833129169)

I do. I have Wii, but I'm hoping I'll get an HR21 so I can daisy chain the Wii to the gaming adapter. :)

Am I wrong or can't I hook a switch to the gaming adapter rather than buying a WAP and get the same effect? WAPs also appears to be quite expensive and the reviews for the only Linksys WAP (http://www.amazon.com/Linksys-Wireless-Access-Point-WAP4400N/dp/B000H46SVY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1203380537&sr=1-1) I was able to find are horrific across the board.

EDIT
DO NOT get a access point. You need a ethernet bridge if you are going wireless. A game adapter is considered to be a ethernet bridge. I also do NOT recommend on getting a switch and putting a ethernet bridge on that to forward the traffic coming into a switch to the wireless connection unless you know what you are doing. You would need a switch that can be programed to forward traffic out a designated port, unless you get lucky.

[dennisj00]

I do. I have Wii, but I'm hoping I'll get an HR21 so I can daisy chain the Wii to the gaming adapter. :)

Am I wrong or can't I hook a switch to the gaming adapter rather than buying a WAP and get the same effect? WAPs also appears to be quite expensive and the reviews for the only Linksys WAP (http://www.amazon.com/Linksys-Wireless-Access-Point-WAP4400N/dp/B000H46SVY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1203380537&sr=1-1) I was able to find are horrific across the board.


The Wii has built-in wireless.

And back to the OPs question, get the gaming adapter or WET-200 or a dd-wrt unit already prepared on eBay.

I've never had a problem using a bridge with a switch plugged into it. Some things have trouble getting DHCP addresses through that combo but I use static on most everything in the house. Simplifies troubleshooting, if you write those addresses down!!

[Ken S]

I have just purchased this puppy and waiting on arrival. It has 4 ports of 10/100 input and will TX/RX "N". Yes the TX/RX is faster than the port input, but the HR2x is only 10/100 anyway. I am needing the better distance performance provided by the "N" and I like upgrading. Heck I might just go ahead and get electricity and plumbing put in this year. :D

Link to SMC Network Ethernet Client (http://www.newegg.com/product/product.aspx?Item=N82E16833129169)



EDIT
DO NOT get a access point. You need a ethernet bridge if you are going wireless. A game adapter is considered to be a ethernet bridge. I also do NOT recommend on getting a switch and putting a ethernet bridge on that to forward the traffic coming into a switch to the wireless connection unless you know what you are doing. You would need a switch that can be programed to forward traffic out a designated port, unless you get lucky.

He (Spanky) is right...I gave bad information. That will teach me to post something without thinking through.

Access Points have always worked well for me, but not for what you want unless they have a bridge function as well. Go back to the original Wireless Router/Modem to a Game Adapter/Bridge.

The Wii has built-in wireless that works fine...you won't need anything else for that if you go with a wireless system that supports 802.11g (make sure to turn it on if you go with an N router)

[Spanky_Partain]

Types of WLAN Bridges

Basic Ethernet-to-Wireless - This type connects directly to a single device via an Ethernet port, like what is on the HR2x, and then provides a wireless connection to an access point, your wireless router. These types of connections offer a substitute for a radio NIC; making it useful when the device, such as a printer, PC, or video game console, Directv HR2x DVR has an Ethernet port and no 802.11 NIC. For example, D-Link offers an 802.11b compatible Ethernet-to-wireless bridge, model number DWL-810, for about $115. In some cases, you may have no way of adding a wireless NIC, which makes a basic bridge the only way to go wireless.

[cosmo115]

Thanks again, everyone!!! I guess I don't hate you anymore. ;)

I have another question. :eek2: Regarding the WET-200, will that take full advantage of the 150N, 160N or 300N routers? Also is the only benefit of the WET-200 over the N gaming adapter the expansion ability or are there other benefits.

I swear that I am this close to making a decision. Then I will only need help on choosing a popcorn machine and comfy chairs. :lol:

[Spanky_Partain]

The WET200 is "G" only. So as far as the wireless two way communication is concerned it will not take advantage of the faster "N" speeds. The maximum speed through the wireless connection is 54Mbps if using the WET200. The SMC product I had a link to will take advantage of the "N" wireless speeds, BUT the HR2x is only capable of 100Mbps Max. The "G" speeds have proving to be adequate for the HR2x capabilities. The internet speeds at best are on 6 to 10 Mbps and that is slower than the "G" wireless connection as well. So the bottleneck for DOD would be the Internet in this case. The ONLY reason why you even need "N" wireless speeds on a Directv HR2x is, well you don't. The "N" speed will only slightly help when transferring video, pictures, or music via the media share option and then you probably only have 10/100Mbps ethernet ports on the PC and I know you only have 100Mbps on the HR2x so there is your scenario.

Yes, the only real advantage over the WET200 and a WGA54 is the expansion capabilities. The speeds are exactly the same.

[cosmo115]

The WET200 is "G" only. So as far as the wireless two way communication is concerned it will not take advantage of the faster "N" speeds. The maximum speed through the wireless connection is 54Mbps if using the WET200. The SMC product I had a link to will take advantage of the "N" wireless speeds, BUT the HR2x is only capable of 100Mbps Max. The "G" speeds have proving to be adequate for the HR2x capabilities. The internet speeds at best are on 6 to 10 Mbps and that is slower than the "G" wireless connection as well. The ONLY reason why you even need "N" wireless speeds on a Directv HR2x is, well you don't. The "N" speed will only slightly help when transferring video, pictures, or music via the media share option and then you probably only have 10/100Mbps ethernet ports on the PC and I know you only have 100Mbps on the HR2x so there is your scenario.


Thanks so much for the info! The only reason I want N is for future use and for when I have my work laptop at home. I guess the N gaming adapter will be fine for my needs, especially since the Wii is wireless. Now I just have to decide on which router to get (sorry in advance for typing out loud):

WRT150N - I like it because it's reasonably priced. I can get this N router and the N adapter for $160.
WRT160N - I like it because it has LELA (http://www.linksys.com/servlet/Satellite?c=L_Promotion_C1&childpagename=US%2FLayout&cid=1175240461999&pagename=Linksys%2FCommon%2FVisitorWrapper&lid=6199927773B08) and it looks like I'll need it. :o
WRT300N - Not sure if it's overkill for my needs, but Amazon does have a $20 off $100 purchase deal going on today.
WRT310N - Same reason as the 160N, but I don't know if I need a Gigabit router. Plus Amazon has a $20 off deal today.

Any advice, oh wise and knowledgeable ones??

[cosmo115]

Update:

I called and spoke to someone in Linksys sales and the guy HIGHLY recommended the WRT310N over all the others I was considering. He said that he plays around with all their routers and products and found the 310N to be the best. He said the 600N is even better, but would be total overkill for my needs and budget.

Please note that I would still like everyone's opinion.

[Spanky_Partain]

Personally I use the WRT350N. You can plug a USB drive into the router and have NAS storage on the router and shared to the home network without using a PC.

NAS=network attached storage

There you go, something else to consider and you didn't even have that reason listed. :)

[cosmo115]

Personally I use the WRT350N. You can plug a USB drive into the router and have NAS storage on the router and shared to the home network without using a PC.

NAS=network attached storage

There you go, something else to consider and you didn't even have that reason listed. :)

Curse you!!!:lol:

Is that feature worth an extra $32.53? :bang ;)

[Spanky_Partain]

It is for me. I share a lot of pictures and stuff in my home network so "Yes". It may not be useful for you at all. It does have a media server software on it that is usable on the media share to the HR2x family but the music does not work that is stored on the NAS as of yet. I do have a trouble ticket in to fix the media server, but that has not happened yet.

[cosmo115]

It is for me. I share a lot of pictures and stuff in my home network so "Yes". It may not be useful for you at all. It does have a media server software on it that is usable on the media share to the HR2x family but the music does not work that is stored on the NAS as of yet. I do have a trouble ticket in to fix the media server, but that has not happened yet.


Thanks.

FINAL UPDATE

I finally took the plunge and ordered the WRT310N and the WGA600N! I spent about 50% more than I expected, but I think in the long run it will pay off.

The best part is I got sweet deals. :cool:

Now all I need is an HR2X. :lol:

Thanks again everyone!!!

[Spanky_Partain]

Oh did anyone tell you it costs $4.99 a month to turn on the network port on the HR2x?

Just kidding....

[cosmo115]

Oh did anyone tell you it costs $4.99 a month to turn on the network port on the HR2x?

Just kidding....

I'd be able to sell the router and the adapter for a profit, so it wouldn't matter.:D

Thanks again!

[Spanky_Partain]

Good luck and have fun!