Johnhh wrote:

I currently use a high power PCMCIA card with a 6dbi omni indoor
antennae. This works well for 1/4 to 1/2 mile if I put the antenna on
the cabin roof, but this is very impractical, especially if it is
raining. What I would like to do is mount a permanent exterior
antennae and run it through a network bridge to my own onboard
wireless network. Can anyone recommend a good high power bridge and
antennae?

This is exactly what I'd like to do. I'd like to find an omni antenna w/ bridge
to mount on the mast or someplace. If the bridge puts out a healthy signal,
there would be no need to run wires except for power. For that matter, a few
solar cells and a battery inside might take care of that issue too, for a
completely self containted unit. I'm quite surprised no one seems to be
targeting boaters with kits like this, especially considering the "yachtsman's
discount" to be tacked on. (Does it work with no hassle? Write the guy a
check!)

I've been trying to use marina WiFi networks with little success. Most of them
really stink, with little coverage and weak signals. I'm often wandering the
docks carrying my laptop, looking for just the right spot to get enough
reception to do anything. The prices companies like Broadband Xpress charge are
pretty aggressive. Considering the service is useless more often than not, it
winds up being a bit of a ripoff. However, if I had a good antenna setup it
might actually be useful. With all this supposed WiFi access around, I'm still
checking my email through a cell phone. Currently the best strategy is to find
a nearby coffeehouse, which often have free WiFi.

Matt O.