MetaGeek Wi-Spy 2.4 GHz Spectrum Analyzer - Articles / Reviews

Reviews: Networking

MetaGeek Wi-Spy 2.4 GHz Spectrum Analyzer

Author:
Editor:
Sponsor:
Published:

Richard Poelling
Kurtis
MetaGeek
Jun. 19, 2006

<< Home

Next >>

Introduction

Do you have a wireless network? Do you have a cordless phone? Do you own a microwave? Most likely your answer to these questions is yes, which means you probably have interference. The issue at hand is not whether you have interference, but whether its effects are felt. Although most wireless boxes are able to push through the lower amounts of interference, some people, such as those living in apartments or otherwise deluged with many wireless signals may have problems. It is with this dilemma in mind that the people at MetaGeek created the Wi-Spy spectrum analyzer.

At this point you're probably asking yourself, "What is a spectrum analyzer and why should I care?" The answer is simple, to analyze a given radio frequency spectrum, in this case from 2.400 GHz to 2.485 GHz. Most people don't bother looking at spectrum analyzers for the main reason that they usually cost a lot of money. Even the "affordable" models out there are in the range of $3,000-5,000. With that said, what makes the Wi-Spy so special? For one, the cost; this unit will run you about $100. Now that is affordable. What I intend to find out is whether that $100 price tag is a great deal, or just a high priced toy which happens to be cheaper than the next cheapest, expensive toy.

First Looks

The Wi-spy is nothing too fancy to behold, it looks like your standard USB memory stick. In terms of portability, it has that locked, but otherwise it won't be getting any design awards. Although the Wi-Spy doesn't look fancy, don't take that to mean it is a simple device. This little package packs a big punch which I will get to later. Besides the unit itself, you also get an installation CD which is of the business card variety. Safe to say it probably doesn't have a really big install file.

<< Home

Page 1 of 4

Next >>

Page 1: Introduction & First Looks
Page 2: Installation & Software Overview
Page 3: Testing & Quality Check
Page 4: Conclusion

4 Comments - Read comments or write your own.
0 User Reviews - Be the first to share your experience with this product.

Subscribe to Wireless [more info]