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cityunity Author

Level 1

8 points

Can I use a USB adapter and USB antenna to boost wifi range on my iPad2?

Hi,

I have an ipad 2 that I want to use to connect to public open wifi signals but my iPad wifi range is not strong enough.

I have looked into various wifi booster apps but I don't want to go that route.

I have found usb external antennas (though I am not sure they are for receiving wifi as opposed to transmitting it from a router!)

and usb adapters for iPads that theoretically would work, but I am no expert and I don't like to waste money.

Does anyone have experience or knowledge to help me answer this question?

Thank you.

iPad 2

Posted on Apr 7, 2012 3:26 PM

18 replies

Philly_Phan

Level 7

20,725 points

Apr 29, 2012 8:07 AM in response to OregonRebel

OregonRebel wrote:

But your statement was made as a matter of fact, and that statement is unproven and likely false..

If the repeater can decode the signal and the iPad can not, the iPad has a problem and you should be dealing with Apple Support.

"Likely false?" Why?

Apr 29, 2012 8:23 AM in response to Philly_Phan

Since you responded to my original post, I assume you read it, but evidently you either skipped over it or didn't comprehend what was said. I suggest you read it again, because it fully answers your question and refutes your statement.

A repeater may have, and probably does have, a better antenna since its entire purpose is to send and receive signals, and it's not limited to the confines of an iPad.

Not all devices have the same receception and transmitting abilities, they vary greatly from one to another. Just because the iPad can't see a signal that the other 2 devices can, doesn't mean it has a problem. The iPad may be working perfectly, yet still not be capable of seeing weaker signals. Now, if several similar iPads in the same location (not just the same cafe, but at the same table in the cafe) were receiving signals that cityunity's wasn't, then they should have it checked.

Philly_Phan

Level 7

20,725 points

Apr 29, 2012 8:33 AM in response to OregonRebel

OregonRebel wrote:

Since you responded to my original post, I assume you read it, but evidently you either skipped over it or didn't comprehend what was said. I suggest you read it again, because it fully answers your question and refutes your statement.

A repeater may have, and probably does have, a better antenna since its entire purpose is to send and receive signals, and it's not limited to the confines of an iPad.

Not all devices have the same receception and transmitting abilities, they vary greatly from one to another. Just because the iPad can't see a signal that the other 2 devices can, doesn't mean it has a problem. The iPad may be working perfectly, yet still not be capable of seeing weaker signals. Now, if several similar iPads in the same location (not just the same cafe, but at the same table in the cafe) were receiving signals that cityunity's wasn't, then they should have it checked.

Perhaps you can explain why my iPad AND my iPod Touch both see an acceptable signal at distances where both of my Airport Express units die.

Can I use a USB adapter and USB antenna to boost wifi range on my iPad2?