than a much-higher-dBi directional antenna might be. Now, you might
think that (since it's manufactured by SMC) that the connector would be
compatible with the SMC2532W-B -- but no. Like the Hawking Technology
antennas, this one needs an RP-MMCX to RP-SMA pigtail.
Trucker & RV +7 dBi: WarDrivingWorld·com offers this 7 dBi omnidirec-
tional (outdoor-mount) antenna that includes an integrated ground
plane. It comes with seven feet of cable and you can get additional cable
from them. It mounts directly into pre-drilled CB antenna holes, or you
can buy an optional mirror mount. You can choose the RP-MMCX con-
nector for use with the SMC2532W-B adapter card.
HyperGain HG2409UM-KIT: Offered by HyperLink Technologies, this 8.5
dBi Omni-directional antenna is designed for use in a marine environ-
ment and is suitable for use on a truck or RV. The package includes a
four-way marine mount, allowing the antenna to be folded flat for travel.
The connector is an RP-SMA, so (surprise, surprise) you need an RP-
MMCX to RP-SMA pigtail for use with an SMC2532W-B adapter card. (See
the next section for more.)
Getting cables and connectors
When you're adding an external antenna to a device like your wireless adapter,
you may need to adapt the connection. The SMC2532W-B uses an MMCX con-
nection (for example), and the antenna you desire might be equipped with a
SMA connector. This is a minor irritation; in almost all cases, it can be easily
remedied. You can traipse down to your local electronics geek shop for a solu-
tion or check out one of these online vendors:
WarDrivingWorld·com: These are the folks from whom I obtained my
RP-MMCX to RP-SMA pigtail for use with my SMC2532W-B card. When
you go to their site in search of a pigtail you need only find the subhead-
ing "Cables & Pigtails" under the main heading "Store home" and follow
that link. This online store also carries other Wi-Fi-related gear that's tai-
lored to a mobile environment.
WirelessNetworkProducts·com: Under the heading "More Info," look for
the subheading "Pigtail Picker" and follow that link. You will be taken to
a page that lets you specify the exact connectors you need on either end
of your custom pigtail. They also offer many other products you might
be interested in.
RadioLabs·com: Follow the link titled "Wireless" on top of the page, and
then follow the link titled "Cables." You find other links for "WiFi Cables,"
"Wi-Fi Connectors," and "Wireless Pigtail cables." Somewhere within this
site lies the solution to your problems. RadioLabs.com is a site to book-
mark and return to often.
Chapter 3: Gearing Up
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