One of the most common questions we as consultants have to answer on a daily basis is the difference between wired and wireless networks. Let me summarize:

Wired: In simple terms; the communication between two devices via cables.
Wireless: the communication between two devices without cables.

Now, is it that simple?
Not exactly, each method of networking has its own pros and cons.
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The i2eye feels to us like a hybrid between a videophone and a videoconferencing system. It sits on top of your television, which it uses as its display. We can imagine that most would use the i2eye in a living room or family room where the whole family could gather round. Whereas the other videophones work best with a single person, the i2eye comfortably brings a small group of people into view.

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Smart button layout is the key to making a quality controller, and that’s where the Thrustmaster Dual Trigger Wireless Gamepad (296655) comes up short. With two analog sticks, an eight-way D-pad, twin triggers, and eight control buttons, this unit offers endless remapping, but the smallish triggers are uncomfortable and often pinch your index fingers. That might be acceptable if the additional set of left/right buttons weren’t so awkwardly placed. The hard plastic casing is durable but not exactly inviting.

Take your home network to the next level with the Axentra HomeSeries Net-Box H-90 - Duron 1.6 GHz ( 13010 ), a consumer friendly, digital-network appliance. In addition to wired and wireless (802.11g) connectivity, the Net-Box also lets you set up a private P2P network for sharing files, photos, and music with others via the Web. Its built-in Web server lets you set up and host your own Web site and create and control your own e-mail addresses.

You can back up all of your home PCs to the unit’s hard drive, connect wireless cameras for easy home surveillance, and much more. The wizard-driven interface means even nontechnical users can get started easily.
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You can dance if you want to, and with the 2.4-GHz Intec Wireless Dance Mat, you don’t have to be right next to your screen. Compatible with most dance games for the Sony PlayStation 2 and Microsoft Xbox systems, these nonslip pads can be used up to 30 feet away, offering plenty of room for you to bust a move. The flexible material stays flat on a variety of surfaces and the bright colors should help bring out your gaming chi. As too much dancing might bring out shin splints instead, we suggest using this on carpeted floors. For PS2 and Xbox Only.

Most Wi-Fi hot spot locators have a few LEDs to inform you of the presence of a wireless signal and its general strength. The Canary Digital Hotspotter HS10, on the other hand, provides comprehensive hot spot information on a 12-character LCD. The HS10 displays the network name (SSID) or cloaked signal strength (SSID suppressed) in one to four bars, whether the network is open or secured, and the operating channel.

If multiple wireless networks are present, the frontpanel push button scrolls through additional networks. The HS10 is bulkier and pricier than LED-based locators, but the additional information will probably be worth the trade-off for Wi-Fi reliant travelers.

If you are having trouble getting wireless network online, it’s time to practice your troubleshooting skills. Here are some simple steps that should help you to quickly pinpoint the source of the trouble.

1. Is Wireless Card Installed Properly And Turned On?

Many notebook have the ability to disable the wireless card, either through software or a physical switch. Is your card inserted in properly, is it turned on, and does it have all of the proper drivers installed? This is the troubleshooting equivalent of is it plugged in, but is certainly worth checking first.

2. Are You In Range of An Access Point?

When in doubt, always check your signal meter. Do you have enough signal strength to talk to the Access Point? You could simply be out of range. If your client software shows noise levels, check them as well to be sure that you have a high signal-to-noise ratio. It is always possible that a neighbor has just started microwaving a burrito, or maybe they just answered their 2.4 GHz phone.
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