networking

[alcav]

Hi guys,

I have to run a cat5e cable from my router to my pc(10mts) to try to alleviate noise.I have two comps networked by cable at the moment which is easy cos the two comps and the router are all together in one place.My question is...is it better to run another cat5 cable,or use a hub or what? .Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Also,would it be worth my while (and expense) to eventually upgrade to ADSL2+,I am certain my exchange now is supporting it.

TIA     Alan

[Rik]

Assuming your router has a spare socket, Alan, just run a second cable. An ethernet cable can be up to 100m in length, use Cat5e or Cat6 for better performance, particularly if the machines have gigabit NICs fitted.

WBC is a difficult one. ATM, my advice would be dependent on your current line stats. Unless you have a 6Mb or better connection, don't expect to gain too much from the change, except the extra bandwidth. Whether it's available or not can be quickly checked by logging into your accounts page on the IDNet website. If it is, you'll see a yellow advisory banner.

Be aware that some people have had bad experiences with WBC and that the process is, effectively, irreversible. Once you move from a DSLAM (Max) to an MSAN (WBC), BT will not move you back again. Any 'regrade' is actually a software profiling of the line to behave like a Max connection.

[alcav]

Hi Rik,

thanks for that,another cat5 cable it is then.my router is a Netgear DG834G,so I would say that has another socket ...yes.?

Re- ADSL2+,I think I will stay as I am for now

Many thanks       Alan

[Rik]

Hi Alan

You've got 4 sockets on the Netgear, so no problems.

As to ADSL2+, my own connection is delivering much as I expected, similar download speeds as Max, higher upload (but not as good as premium, ie 832k), attenuation has increased despite the lack of extra speed, and pings are much the same. The only benefit, therefore, is the extra bandwidth monthly.

[alcav]

Thanks Rik,

that appears to have answered my question,I just hope now that it improves my noise margin a little more.

I can't really move int any more tests until new cables are fitted.

Alan

[Rik]

It's had no effect on my d/s margin, Alan, though less stability than on Max. U/s margin has, of course, dropped significantly, from 19 to 6db, because of the extra speed.