What type of Wireless Router, Cooling System, Bag?

[schmalfeld]

As I posted in another post I just ordered my very first laptop (the HP zd7000) and I got the option for a 54g Wireless LAN. I want to get my house wireless (starting with my laptop). I currently have 2 computers and 1 xbox hooked up to a Linksys Switched 10/100 network switch. I have a few spots open in the back to plug more stuff in. I also have 1.5Mbps/512kbps DSL thought sprint witha dynamic ip.
I was hoping there was a way for me to get a wireless router that would plug into my existing switch and allow me to run my laptop wireless in my house. My longer term goal is to get the other two computers to become wireless as well (i will keep the switch for when I have friends over and we hook up 5 xbox's). What are your suggestions on what I should get? I would like to take advantage of the faster speeds of the 54g Wireless LAN.

I also hear that the systme runs hot and am curious on your thoughts for a cooling system. I have looked into the ones that don't require any extra power (not even the usb plug in) but know how effective they really are. Any suggestions would be great.

Finally I was wanting to get a backback bag for it. I know the size (17in moniter) will eliminate alot of packs, but I was curious if there were any suggetions on particular brands or to where I could do a little more research on the subject.


Thanks for your help.

[nesbo]

My advice for a wireless router would be Netgear brand. I've had the most success with them and they usually have good customer support. As for your questions regarding hooking up your switch to it...I will have to leave that to Brian or Abaxter, since my knowledge of networking is limited.

I don't know much about backpack bags or cooling systems, so I will also leave that for someone else.

Enjoy your laptop!!

[Brian]

A lot of things to address, here I go:

1) Wireless - get the Netgear WGR614, it offers G for your notebook and is backward compatible with B if you or someone else visits with older hardware. You'll plug your internet connection and switch into the wireless router, most likely. I guess it could be the other way around as well. The Netgear has an uplink plus for ports.

2) I really don't think this is needed. I'm not real knowledgable about the options either, sorry to say.

3) Look at the Targus line and booqbags.com. I have an older Targus model that is pretty solid. They're new ones aer even better though.

Editor in Chief http://www.bargainPDA.com and http://www.SPOTstop.com