Expert: Josephliyen - 12/25/2007

Question
QUESTION: i was wondering if there was any way to expand the wi-fi range on the ps3 and how hard it would be to do so (& on psp while we're on the topic: thats what i am using to write this). also do u know some factors that affect signal strength (ex. direction its facing, objects or materials between source & reciever such as walls). also how much would it cost if possible?

ANSWER: Let's start with the factors that affect signal strengths. Any obstacles between your router and the ps3 will affect your signal strength, but it varies between materials. wood affects the least, then it's concrete then lead. Also devices that send off waves in operation will affect the strength as well, for example a microwave.

For the ps3, I believe you could get a 108mps usb router to boost the range of your wireless signal, but not only you need to make sure it is compatible with the ps3 (most are), but you also need to make sure your router supports 108mps (draft N) spec as well. These devices can be quite expensive, ranging from $60 to $100. However, you might get lucky because of some xmas sales.

For the PSP, there's no known external router that can work with it. You are out of luck on that one.

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QUESTION: so does the direction my ps3/psp faces affect signal strength like in a remote? also what does mps stand for, about how much would my range increase with one of these devices (so like if my signal strength was 17 %, what would it be with this device?),& i have 2 make sure that my ps3 supports 108mps or the device i need 2 get supports 108 mps? lastly, how do i know if the device is compatible w/ my ps3?

Answer
directions don't matter. it's not like a remote.
mps = Megabits per second. (8Mbit=1MB)
range increase varies with the device you use, I can't confirm on that.
yes like I said last time, you need both the sending and receiving device to both have the same 108mps range for it to work.
you will know it works when your ps3 finds it. buy one to try and if it doesn't work return it.