Wireless Ethernet Bridge

A wireless Ethernet bridge converts a wired Ethernet device for use on a wireless computer network. Wireless Ethernet bridges and USB adapters are both sometimes called wireless media adapters as they enable devices for WiFi utilizing Ethernet or USB physical media. Wireless Ethernet bridges support game consoles, digital video recorders and other Ethernet-based consumer devices as well as ordinary computers.

The Linksys WET54G Wireless Ethernet Bridge (compare prices) is shown above. It is only a bit larger than Linksys' wireless USB adapter.

True network bridge devices like the WET54G do not require device driver software installation in order to function, simplifying installation. Instead, network settings for the WET54G can be made through a browser-based administrative interface.

Like USB adapters, wireless Ethernet bridges can draw their power from the main cable connected to the host device. Ethernet bridges require a specialized Power over Ethernet (PoE) converter to make this work, however, whereas this functionality is automatic with USB. Without a PoE add-on, wireless Ethernet bridges need a separate power cord.

Wirelss Ethernet bridges commonly feature LED lights. The WET54G, for example, displays lights for power, Ethernet and Wi-Fi status.

Wireless CompactFlash Card Adapter for PDAs

Wireless CompactFlash (CF) cards like the Linksys WCF54G (compare prices) shown above are designed for use in Pocket PC devices running the Microsoft Windows CE operating system. These adapters enable PDA devices for standard Wi-Fi networking.

Like PC Card adapters for notebook computers, wireless CompactFlash cards fit into a slot on the side or back of a PDA. The portion of the device containing the Wi-Fi antenna and LED lights protrudes from the PDA.

CompactFlash card network adapters obtain their power from the PDA batteries and are designed to minimize the unit's power consumption.

Wireless USB Network Adapter

The Linksys WUSB54G (compare prices) shown above is a typical WiFi wireless USB network adapter. These adapters connect to a standard USB port available on the back of most newer computers. In general, USB network adapters are not much larger in size than PC Card adapters. Two LED lights on the adapter indicate its power and network link status.

Installation of a wireless USB adapter is simple. A short USB cable (normally included with the unit) joins the adapter to the computer. These adapters do not require a separate power cord, as the same USB cable also draws power from the host computer. The USB adapter's wireless antenna and circuitry remain external to the computer at all times. On some units, the antenna can be adjusted manually to improve WiFi reception. The accompanying device driver software serves an equivalent function as in other types of network adapters.

Some manufacturers market two kinds of wireless USB adapters, a "basic" model and a "compact" model designed for travelers. Their small size and easy setup make these adapters an attractive choice for those who want to simplify their network setup.