In RV parks with Wi-Fi service, a wireless signal is transmitted from elevated antennas that cover broad outdoor areas. These antenna will transmit ‘useable’ signal from a few hundred feet to more than ½ mile. While there are many variable that ultimately determine the usability of any Wi-Fi service, your wireless adapter is a significant factor in your ability to use the service at any given time.

If you ever wondered why your built-in wireless works great a Starbucks, Flying J’s etc., it is because the access point is probably relatively close to you and there are usually few (if any) objects that interfere with your ability to send/receive wireless signals. In RV parks, many environmental factors can effect your ability to receive and send signal to an access point. Some of the factors that contribute to signal strength and quality are:

• Distance from the nearest antenna
• Trees blocking clear line sight between your RV and the antenna
• Other nearby RV’s blocking clear line sight between your RV and the antenna
• A personal Wi-Fi network set up in a neighbouring RV
• Aluminium or other metallic window shades blinds will reflect a signal away
• Materials used in manufacturing RV`s such as metal trim, electrical & plumbing lines
• Window tint with metallic reflective coatings

Following is a description of the four most common types of wireless adapters used by consumers in various Wi-Fi environments. While this explanation is not intended to portray the usability of each of the various types in ALL environments, it does address some of the benefits and limitations of each.

Wireless Card: The wireless card that comes built-in most of today’s laptops are great for home environments, small offices and other indoor `hotspots` and were designed for mobility and low power consumption. These two design elements sacrifice output power and therefore limit access distance from an access point. In addition, many built-in wireless cards are located on the underside of the laptop computer, further reducing signal reception capabilities. Lastly, many laptop manufacturers use the same small set of vendors for laptop components (including wireless cards) in their Pcs. Many times this means an $500 laptop will have the same built-ii Wi-Fi capability as a $3000 model.

PCMIA Cards:  Also known as PC Cards, they can provide enhanced signal strength and stabilize connection speeds if you are having trouble using your built-in wireless in an RV park environment. PC Cards have power outputs that range from 30mW to 200mW. Some even have built-in connectors to attach an external antenna, enhancing signal even further. One drawback to PC Cards is their location in reference to `signal`. Most PC Cards have an Omni-directional antenna built-in to the part of the card that hangs out of your PC. Placing your computer on a desk or table effectively blocks the lower half of the card’s built-in antenna. Moving your PC a few inches may increase your signal substantially.

USB Adapter: USB Adapters are probably the single best option for using Wi-Fi in an RV park. They combine good output power with the ability to place theme where the signal is strongest, without having to move your PC around. Typically, placing a USB Adapter in a window that has visibility to the nearest Wi-Fi antenna will provide optimum results.

Wi-Fi Antenna:  Finally there is an solution for Rvers that are at extreme distances from the nearest Wi-Fi antenna or have lots of trees blocking line of sight, or just want a wireless solution that is going to work just about anywhere. This is an outdoor radio antenna all built into a single enclosure you can mount on the side or roof of your RV. Run a single piece of outdoor rated CAT5 cable from the radio antenna to your PC and plug into your Ethernet port via the included DC injector. These units cost between $150 and $250 but, you will probably never have to contend with a low signal again.