MIMO router worth it?

[volcs0]

OK. Here is what I learned.

MIMO stands for "Multiple-input multiple-output". New routers with this technology (also sometimes called Pre-N) claim to double or triple wireless range, even while using existing B and G wireless cards.

http://pcworld.about.com/magazine/2304p020id119801.htm

According to reviews at Tom's Hardware, not all these MIMO routers are created equally (big surprise). The Zyxel actually got a very favorable review, and for $50, it seems like a great deal.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.as...6833181218&CMP=AFC-C8Junction

For router chart, see here: http://www.tomsnetworking.com/2006/03/31...page2.html

After going through several Linksys routers and a few D-links, the best one I've tested, as far as speed and range is this cheap-o AT&T router. So far, it is the only one to reach our bedroom and has far more security options than the other routers I've used. Also, it has very detailed setting for MAC filtering, which I use extensively. I'll give the Zyxel a shot and see how it compares.

[Panopticon]

That router chart bites. It's out of date. Many of the products listed on it are FOUR years old.

"also sometimes called Pre-N" is a set of unapproved protocols not yet agreed to by the wireless manufacturers. Unlike 11b and 11g, a Pre-N router from Company X may not play nicely with a Pre-N card from Company Y.

"OK. Well, no one seemed to be able to answer my original question regarding MIMO routers, "Has anyone tried one out yet?" "

NO

"Thanks for all the un-requested info, though. "
You're welcome.

Enjoy the ZyXEL.

[volcs0]

[quote Panopticon]That router chart bites. It's out of date. Many of the products listed on it are FOUR years old.

"also sometimes called Pre-N" is a set of unapproved protocols not yet agreed to by the wireless manufacturers. Unlike 11b and 11g, a Pre-N router from Company X may not play nicely with a Pre-N card from Company Y.
Thanks for the info. I did find out that the Netgear on that chart (the top rated one) has changed chipsets. As far as I know, the Zyxel and D-link are the same models.

[quote Panopticon]Enjoy the ZyXEL.
Yes - thanks. I hope it will solve some of the spotty coverage issues. I'll try to do a semi-objective test to compare it to my current setup.

Thanks again.

-sam