Which wireless N adapter... PCI or USB?

phillai · 14 Dec 2009 at 16:37

As above, what are the advantages and disadvantages going PCI or USB?

And can anyone recommend me one?

Also, it must be compatible with Windows 7 64 bit.

Many thanks to all replies in advance.

ReeVo.uK · 14 Dec 2009 at 16:41

The advantage of PCI is the speed. PCI is far faster than USB.
The main advantage of USB is the universal compatibility, the convenience of not have to open up your case. And that USB's can be positioned around the PC for maximum range coverage and can also be interchangable between computers easily.

However, I would personally, and have gone with a PCI wireless card. It is easily fittable, requires no drivers and comes with an arial which can be positioned on your desk.

I recommend the Belkin N+ wireless adapter.

Found here: http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=NW-088-BE

phillai · 14 Dec 2009 at 16:56

Thanks for that, prompt reply!

I have a spare PCI Express slot... Do they make wireless N cards for this?

-=Vect0r=- · 14 Dec 2009 at 20:42

Yup, another vote for a PCI adapter over USB.

ReeVo.uK · 14 Dec 2009 at 21:38

To my knowledge, I am not sure whether PCI-E slots are backwards compatible with PCI devices. This being the case, I do not believe there is a manufactured network card for PCI-E simply because it would be a waste. PCI-E is far faster than PCI and the bandwidth on the slot would far exceed what would be needed from a PCI network card. However, PCI-E to PCI converters are on the market and this could be a feasable option if you considered buying a PCI card with only a PCI-E slot available.

Hope this helps.