How does the wi-fi module work

If after the first connection, the devices can not synchronize with each other, it is recommended to restart them. The adapter should be disconnected from the TV, and the router from the mains.

Why do you need a wi-fi adapter in PCs and laptops

Any modern gadget, smartphone, tablet, laptop is equipped with a Wi-Fi module. Thanks to it you can at any time connect to the Internet wirelessly, which is very convenient. Sometimes you want to provide the same opportunity to connect to the network and a stationary computer or TV. Therefore, it becomes clear what you need a wi-fi adapter for.

Wi-Fi module is a special device that is designed to receive and distribute the wireless network signal. One can decide when looking at a Wi-Fi adapter that it is an ordinary flash drive or an electronic board. In appearance, the devices are somewhat similar.

There are different kinds of wi-fi modules, which differ in terms of:

The final cost of the device will depend on these and other various factors.

For your information! Wi-Fi technology works in a certain frequency range. For the signal to be transmitted over the air, data packets are converted into radio waves and vice versa. To receive them over the air, the radio wave must be read and digitized, which is done by a Wi-Fi module.

How a Wi-Fi adapter works

To understand how any Wi-Fi adapter works, you need to initially connect it to the device. There are several options available:

Thanks to the adapter, any device will be able to connect to the Wi-Fi network that the router distributes.

In the case of smartphones or laptops, it is clear what you need a Wi-Fi adapter for – to access the Internet and save mobile traffic. In the case of desktop computers or TVs, users do not always see this need. On a desktop computer, it is more common to use an Ethernet cable. But there are modern motherboards with an integrated module.

Pay attention! Any modern TV with Smart TV support is impossible to use without a built-in Wi-Fi module. It expands the functionality of any device, allows you to watch any movies, TV series without first downloading to a flash drive, some channels online.

Getting to know

Let's talk a little about why you need a wireless adapter. So, it is a special network equipment to connect to the wireless network in a certain frequency range to receive and transmit data packets. In order to work properly, it uses drivers – software through which the operating system accesses the hardware. Simply put, the firmware acts as a kind of intermediary between the OS and the device and ensures proper operation.

I will try to tell you in detail about the configuration of each type.

Built-in modules

Smartphones, tablets, and laptops are equipped from the factory with networking equipment. That is, you don't have to connect it, you just have to turn it on and, if necessary, configure it. Let's talk more about it on the example of laptops.

How to configure the Wi-Fi adapter (I will describe using Windows 10, in other versions, everything is similar):

1. First you need to check the drivers. If the laptop is new, all the necessary software is on a disk, which is always included. If for some reason there is no disk, you can download programs from the official website of the manufacturer of the computer.
2. Through the options, go to "Network and Internet", then to "Adapter settings".
3. In the "Network Connections" window that opens, you will find the "Wireless Network" icon. By clicking on it, you will see a menu that will help you turn on and configure the Wi-Fi adapter on your PC.

1. The "General" tab shows the status of the device. When everything is set up correctly, it will say: "The device is working normally".
2. The "Advanced" tab describes the properties of the network adapter.
3. In the "Driver" section you can update the firmware, return to the previous software version, enable and disable the Wi-Fi module.
4. Another item that may come in handy is "Power management". Here you can allow the automatic shutdown of the device to save battery power.

How to choose the right Wi-Fi adapter for your TV

Choosing a Wi-Fi module, it is important not only to consider the above criteria, but also the brand of the device. You should give preference only to proven brands that have proved to be positive. To do this, it will not hurt to read the reviews of other users who have already ordered this product in the online store.

The correctly selected transmitter for TV must meet the following requirements:

• device compatibility. It is better that both the router and the wi-fi adapter were of the same brand;
• the same frequencies. Both devices must operate on the same frequency range;
• A large range of operation. Experienced specialists recommend buying adapters with a signal capture radius of at least 15 m;
• high power factor. This indicator affects the stability of the signal;
• reliable encryption protection.

Ignoring the above recommendations may lead to malfunctioning of the equipment in the process of operation, as well as to a weak data transmission speed.

Important! When choosing a Wi-Fi adapter for your TV, you should also pay attention to its appearance. Its surface should not have any visible damage, chips and scratches, which may lead to malfunctioning of the transmitter.

Top list of the best adapters to connect to the TV

As mentioned above, you need to pay close attention to the brand of the wi-fi module for the TV. At the moment, there are several common brands that are worthy of detailed consideration.

LG AN WF100 Wi-Fi adapter

• Built-in Bluetooth module;
• support for the 802.11.g standard, which will provide a high data transfer rate;
• setup without remote control. This adapter can be set up without a remote control for TV. Its body has the necessary buttons;
• The connection is made through a USB-cable, which is supplied in the kit.

Sony UWA-BR100

Considered one of the best adapters that provides users with the following features:

• Connection to the TV both through a wire and directly into the BSB socket;
• easy setup. You can configure this Wi-Fi module without looking at the manual;
• The high probability of compatibility with different models of TVs;
• the low cost in comparison with analogues;
• support of the WPS secure configuration technology.

Pay attention! Sony UWA-BR100 adapter will not work on 5 GHz frequency.

Stream TV DIB-200 from D—Link

This device has several distinctive features:

• The module can be connected to the TV through the HDMI connector;
• compatibility with several TV models;
• low cost. This model belongs to the budget segment;
• no extra wire to connect;
• easy and quick setup according to the manual.

Recommendations for choosing a model

Once you have decided on the type of network adapter, you should understand the models themselves. There are a few recommendations that will help you do so.

Try to buy a device with maximum traffic speed. This will reduce the speed loss of your ISP to an imperceptible minimum. Remember that it doesn't work the other way around. Even the most powerful Wi-Fi adapter in the world won't be able to speed up the upper threshold that's specified in your contract.

Pay your attention to the power of the antenna. If your router is at your fingertips or somewhere nearby, you don't need to pay much attention to it. But if it's further away, it's worth getting a device with at least twenty dB of power.

Don't worry too much about compatibility between your device and your router. They can be from different manufacturers, but they are still compatible. Only very old models may be an exception.

Also, almost all adapters can be installed on any version of Windows: from XP to the modern Ten. To be sure of this, look at the specifications of the selected model. In addition, they will also work for Mac OS.

How much does a Wi-Fi receiver cost?

The main criterion for choosing is the price of the Wi-Fi adapter for the computer, which depends on the manufacturer, model, connection method and other features. On average, the cost of the product ranges from 700 to 2000 rubles. But there is no need to chase expensive models. The price of a Wi-Fi receiver for a computer (PC) may be small, but the device will last for many years and provide high quality communication. To avoid mistakes, it is worth listening to reviews and comments from experts. The easiest way is to buy one of the popular models, without figuring out how much a Wi-Fi adapter for the computer costs.

How to choose a method to connect a Wi-Fi network adapter to your computer and laptop

Performing this procedure depends on the type of router.

The external adapter is connected either through a special cable into the appropriate connector on the motherboard (on the back of the system), or into the USB port. Then it will be wireless.

To connect the Wi-Fi module via wire, you need to plug the main cable coming from the Internet provider into the first connector on the back of the router (usually highlighted in a different color). The wire that comes with the router is plugged at one end into the connector on the router and at the other end into the WLAN port on the computer's motherboard.

For your information! The internal adapter has to be plugged into the PCI Express slot on the motherboard. To do this you will need to remove the side cover of the system unit.

Major mistakes when selecting a Wi-Fi adapter

Experienced experts highlight several mistakes that people make when choosing a Wi-Fi transmitter:

Thus, choosing a Wi-Fi router is a complex procedure that requires the right approach. The information presented above will allow you to understand what a Wi-Fi adapter is and what to pay attention to when choosing one.

Popular models

LG AN-WF500. Branded adapter that works with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth networks. The feature is the ability to combine devices into a common DLNA-network. Along with TV sets, it is compatible with sound panels and headsets. One of the functions is the "MagicRemote" connection. The connection type is USB 2.0. Frequency – 2.4 GHz. The standard is 802.11 a/g/b/n. There is a LED on the body, lit when the module is active.

WIS12ABGNX. Adapter for TV panels firm Samsung. Can communicate with other devices thanks to support for DLNA standards. You do not need to install any third-party software on your TV to start using it. Data transfer speed reaches 300 Mbit/sec. The standard is 802.11 n. Compatible with "Samsung AllShare.

Stream TV DIB-200. A high-quality universal adapter from the well-known company D-Link. It is designed to transmit multimedia files to the TV. Compact and easy to work.

D-Link DWA-137. Universal, suitable for TV and PC. Thanks to one operating frequency can cross with other devices. The speed is up to 300 Mbit/sec. The device has a detachable 5 dBi antenna attached to its body. The type of connection is USB 2.0.

Fenvi FV-N700S. Compatible with older Samsung models, Blu-ray players and home theater systems. Frequency is 2.4 and 5 GHz. Connection is USB. The speed – 300 Mbit / sec. Connectivity standard – 802.11 a/b/g/n.

Connecting and configuring

The device configuration is very simple and is performed according to the same algorithm for all models. The only difference is the menu items. To connect the TV to the wireless network you will need: internet access from your provider, router, TV adapter, compatible with the TV.

For Samsung

Before buying an adapter, it is worth looking at the manufacturer's website and finding a list of supported TV models. Usually all the instructions for a quick connection are also included.

1. The adapter is inserted into the TV socket, then it becomes active (an alternative to the built-in wireless lan adapter).
2. Set up the network. The button on the remote control "Menu" – section "Network" – item "Network settings".
3. If the TV does not detect any cables, it prompts you to create a wireless connection. Press Start.
4. Select the home network distributed by the router, connect, enter the password, and click "OK.

The TV will check the connection and if everything is normal, will notify with the appropriate message.

For LG

Again, it is worth visiting the manufacturer's website and make sure that the module is suitable for the TV model. Next, the adapter is inserted into the appropriate slot. There is no need to do anything, it activates itself.

The further algorithm depends on the model of the receiver. It is necessary to enter the settings, the item related to the network, select the home one and enter the password.

1. Press "Home" on the remote control.
2. Select the gear icon "Settings", press "OK".
3. Go to "Network" – "Wi-Fi network connection".
4. TV will find and display the available networks, from which select the desired, enter a username and password.

Features and main characteristics

When choosing a device to access the Internet from your TV, you should pay special attention to the following characteristics:

• Power. One of the main parameters characterizing the quality of the transmitter, which affects the signal reception range from the router. To provide a normal signal level the module must have a power of at least 17 dBm.
• Frequency. When choosing, you should keep in mind that the operating frequency of the router must match the frequency of the Wi-Fi adapter. This will solve the problems with the synchronization of devices.
• Signal standard. The speed of the Internet, which will be allocated by the module, depends on the signal standard. The range of real and maximum speeds issued by the router must meet the signal standards of the transmitter. Otherwise, the device for the TV will not work properly.
• Radius of action. This parameter is indicated either on the box with the module, or in the instructions for its operation. It is necessary to take into account how far away from the router the TV is and, based on this, choose an adapter with an appropriate range.
• Security. Each module has its own encryption system, which is responsible for connecting other devices to the transmitter. This system must be at a high level.

Some Wi-Fi modules have the ability to hide the network. That is, when you turn on the wi-fi on other devices, this network will not appear, and it will be impossible to connect to it.

Working principle of wi-fi adapter for digital set-top box

Within the framework of this article, it is inappropriate to thoroughly consider the principle of operation of Wi-Fi modules. However, the main points are worth paying attention to. The functioning of the transmitter is based on the following technologies:

• DLNA. These are standards by which devices can synchronize without the use of wires and provide access to the Internet, search for the information the user needs.
• AirPlay. This is a similar technology to the previous one, designed to allow you to view, download and transfer various video formats to other users. This feature will only be needed when using Apple devices, such as iPhones.
• Signal decoder. Designed to connect the transmitter to the TV.

Wi-Fi adapters for TV have a USB-type connection interface and can be connected to personal computers.

Description of the Wi-Fi adapter for PC and laptop

Wi-Fi adapter is a small (for this reason it is called a Wi-Fi whistle) module, which strongly resembles an ordinary flash drive, both in appearance and size. There are also variants for installation in the system unit, they have built-in antennas to improve signal quality.

Wi-Fi receiver for the computer is needed in the case when a personal device or laptop does not have a similar factory installed – this happens rarely, usually if the customer wants to save money, and buys equipment with an incomplete set.

• If there is no built-in module, the only way to connect to the Wi-Fi network is to use the equipment in question.
• The device is also purchased in situations where the standard of the already installed client is outdated, and an urgent upgrade is required.
• Adapters are used to accelerate the quality of the connection, to create a more reliable Wi-Fi network.
• Some models have multiple access points. By connecting such a device to your computer, you can make it an independent source of wireless connection distribution and connect your laptop or phone (any equipment that can receive wi-fi) to your PC.

When choosing an adapter, you should start from the way you connect to your personal computer and laptop. Usually the USB port is used. There is also equipment, which is placed in a special slot on the motherboard, this is a common option for connecting a tablet or laptop.

The speed of signal propagation will directly depend on the standard of Wi-Fi, which is used at home or in the office. In practice, the value indicated in the instructions decreases several times, due to several factors at once, for example, interference in the radio signal or the thickness of walls that block the wi-fi. Therefore, the use of different applications, can be problematic when using Wi-Fi adapter.

How a Wi-Fi adapter works

In most cases modern PCs or laptops already use special routers, which are equipped with an integrated module. This is a receiver which picks up the signal from the router.

If there is no such equipment in your computer or laptop, you need to connect a special adapter. It will perform the same function, but after a few adjustments and when properly connected. The essence of the adapter is to receive the signal coming from the router.

Adapters, as a rule, are external or internal, which are connected directly to the motherboard – before buying, you should read the characteristics of each type, and not take the equipment at random.

How to Make a Wi-Fi Adapter out of Your Phone

Many people wonder whether it is possible to use the phone as a Wi-Fi adapter. In fact, modern models of smartphones support this function. With their help, you can connect your PC to a wireless network to use the Internet. To do this, you need to follow the following sequence of actions:

1. Disconnect the mobile Internet. First you need to disconnect from 3G/4G.
2. Connect to the wireless network. When the phone is disconnected from the mobile Internet, connect it to the Wi-Fi network.
3. Connect the smartphone to the PC. This is done using a normal USB cable.
4. Enter the modem mode. To do this, enter the settings in your phone and select "Connections". Then enter "hotspot" section and select "USB modem".

After performing the above steps, the smartphone will be connected to the PC as an Internet modem.

If it was not possible to connect the phone to the computer the first time, it is necessary to check the integrity of the USB cable. You can also try to reconnect it. This should help solve the problem.

Popular models of wi-fi adapters

People who want to buy an adapter for a PC, laptop or TV set-top box, should familiarize themselves in advance with the list of popular models of devices. There are several varieties of quality Wi-Fi modules that you can safely buy.

Zyxel NWD6605.

This model is ideal for laptops and computers. It supports the modern 802.11 ac standard, which allows you to transmit data at high speeds.

The device operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. This adapter can be considered universal. It is suitable for downloading large files, as well as for online games. Among the disadvantages are problems with drivers, which are rarely updated.

TP-Link T2U Plus

This is the best budget model, which is suitable for people with a limited budget. The main advantage of the receiver is the presence of an external antenna. With its help, it manages to catch the Wi-Fi signal even at a distance of about 100 meters.

TP-Link T2U Plus supports the 802.11ac protocol. It is capable of transmitting information at speeds of 300-350 Mbps.

WPA2 encryption is used to protect transmitted data, as in most modern routers.

Lumax DV0002

This is an ideal choice for people who are not going to use the adapter too often. The device only supports the 802.11n standard and therefore the download and upload speed is limited to 150 Mbit/s. However, even this will be quite enough for comfortable use of the Internet and downloading large files.

Many people are wondering why they need a Wi-Fi adapter. This device is used to connect a PC, laptop or TV to the Internet via Wi-Fi. People who want to buy such a device should familiarize themselves in advance with its main features and popular models.

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