Welcome to USB-WiFi Discussions!

[morrownr]

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Regards, Nick

[3ap]

Hi! My name is Sergey and I'm Embedded Linux Engineer. I want to thank you and the community for the list!

Right now I'm trying to find an appropriate Wi-Fi dongle for our embedded devices, so I decided to buy ≈10 different models (almost all Panda's stuff, Eastech, DM-Digital, EDUP, TEROW) for research in accordance with the list.

So, for now I have several questions:

1. Is there a document or even guidelines to test these dongles in the field properly? Of course, I mean not very precise "laboratory" test, but for example maybe there are best practices for understanding real Wi-Fi coverage/range?
2. What kind of information I can contribute to the list/repo? I can send data from lsusb/dmesg/iw (like in iw_list directory) for each model, I can send photos of dongle internals. I also have a simple USB tester to measure power consumption.
3. During my research I've found that there are a lot of extremely low-cost (1, 2, 3) RT5370/MT7601 dongles (<5$, or even 2-3$ if buy in bulk) that are very popular at least in Russia/Ukraine for set-top (TV) boxes. These dongles are so popular that they become de facto standard for these TV devices (that are running on Linux, of course). I think these dongles should be mentioned.

Fun fact: Eastech RT5370(12$), Chipal MT7601 (5$), OEM Wi-Fi based on Ralink RT5370 (5$), Panda PAU04 (12$ + delivery) look very much alike. However I've already checked that at least Panda PAU04 and Eastech RT5370 have different PCB but the same RT5370 chip.

[morrownr]

Hi! My name is Sergey and I'm Embedded Linux Engineer. I want to thank you and the community for the list!

Hi Sergey. I'm Nick. You are welcome.

1. Is there a document or even guidelines to test these dongles in the field properly? Of course, I mean not very precise "laboratory" test, but for example maybe there are best practices for understanding real Wi-Fi coverage/range?

Good questions. I can't point you to a link that gives concrete answers. I have had questions here before and in other repos asking if adapter X has longer range than adapter Y. What I did to respond to those questions is setup a situation where the distance and obstructions between the AP and test location was difficult enough that none of the adapters could max out any of the readings. I also made sure that all adapters would be tested from the exact same location using the same USB port. The result is shown at the follow link:

https://github.com/morrownr/USB-WiFi/blob/main/Performance_Comparison.md

I have also accomplished other less formal tests for my own information. What I know is that there are large differences in range between adapters. The factors that influence range are the sensitivity of the antennas and the quality of the internal amp. The ALFA ACHM and ALFA ACH have the longest range of any 80211ac capable adapters that I am aware of.

If you would like to conduct a similar test with 80211n adapters and provide the results, that would be most welcome.

I realize that this type of test is a comparison test and not a raw range test but raw range tests would be more challenging to conduct.

2. What kind of information I can contribute to the list/repo? I can send data from lsusb/dmesg/iw (like in iw_list directory) for each model

I would welcome any and all additions to /iw_list. Please use one of the existing documents as a template. Do you know how to do Pull Requests? It would be easier for both of us if you do submissions as Pull Requests. Thanks.

I can send photos of dongle internals. I also have a simple USB tester to measure power consumption.

Yes, this is welcome also. Please use Pull Requests and only info/photos for one adapter per Pull Request.

3. During my research I've found that there are a lot of extremely low-cost (1, 2, 3) RT5370/MT7601 dongles (<5$, or even 2-3$ if buy in bulk) that are very popular at least in Russia/Ukraine for set-top (TV) boxes. These dongles are so popular that they become de facto standard for these TV devices (that are running on Linux, of course). I think these dongles should be mentioned.

FYI: The ar9271 and rt3070 are at end of production so I expect adapters based on those chipsets to become hard to find as new items over the next year. The in-kernel driver for each should continue to be maintained for many years. All other chipsets that I show with in-kernel drivers should be produced for many years to come.

Fun fact: Eastech RT5370(12$), Chipal MT7601 (5$), OEM Wi-Fi based on Ralink RT5370 (5$), Panda PAU04 (12$ + delivery) look very much alike. However I've already checked that at least Panda PAU04 and Eastech RT5370 have different PCB but the same RT5370 chip.

Good info. I will add, for anyone looking on, that the mt7601u chipset and in-kernel driver combo are designed for limited function. Managed mode (STA/client) is fully supported and works well. AP mode is not supported at all. Monitor mode is not capable of transmitting.

Regards,

Nick

[WKenC]

Hello Nick, Thank you for setting up this sprawling info on USB-WiFi adapters.

My scenario is that I converted a barely minimal hp z14 laptop with amd processor running windows 10 to CloudReady. But then I lost the built-in wi-fi. I asked around the CloudReady community and someone suggested to use a wi-fi adapter. So I dug out the Linksys WUSB54GC ver1, it works. However it is a bit bulky to carry around with the laptop, so I tried to buy a nano form factor. I thought that it's going to plug-n-play, but the adapter will not response when plugged in.

I am not very familiar with Linux. I am setting up the laptop for students to work on their homework through Google classroom at the afterschool.

Which nano wi-fi adapter will be my best bet for the CloudReady chrome OS?

Regards,
Ken

[morrownr]

Hello Nick, Thank you for setting up this sprawling info on USB-WiFi adapters.

Hello Ken. I'll take the word sprawling to mean that things are getting a little messy. He he. Actually I know this and am working in the background to turn README.md into a Main Menu. I'm trying to do it in an orderly manner so as to not disturb things as this site gets over 3000 views per week.

My scenario is that I converted a barely minimal hp z14 laptop with amd processor running windows 10 to CloudReady. But then I lost the built-in wi-fi. I asked around the CloudReady community and someone suggested to use a wi-fi adapter. So I dug out the Linksys WUSB54GC ver1, it works. However it is a bit bulky to carry around with the laptop, so I tried to buy a nano form factor. I thought that it's going to plug-n-play, but the adapter will not response when plugged in.

Can you post the link to the version of CloudReady you are using?

I am not very familiar with Linux.

Me either. I've only been using it since '94. Okay, seriously, even Linus can't keep with everything so it is good to know a few places to get answers.

I am setting up the laptop for students to work on their homework through Google classroom at the after school.

Copy all.

Which nano wi-fi adapter will be my best bet for the CloudReady chrome OS?

Get me the link and let me see what we have and I'll do my best.

Regards,

Nick

[WKenC]

Thanks for your response.
The following is the build info:
Google Chrome: Version 102.0.5005.20 (Official Build) dev (64-bit)
Platform: 14695.23.0 (Official Build) dev-channel reven
Channel: stable-channel
Firmware Version:
ARC Enabled: false
ARC:
Enterprise Enrolled: false
Developer Mode: true

I was using the CloudReady but I went into the settings and walked into the developer mode and it is changed to Chrome OS Flex. What I learned was that Google bought CloudReady. And I am not sure if I can switch it back to CloudReady.

Regards,
Ken

[morrownr]

Hi Ken,

My request for information was worded poorly.

My plan is to install Chrome OS Flex on something so as to test. Is there a link that I can use to download it?

Also, the systems you are using, what CPU arch are they based on ARM or x86?

It would also be handy if I know exactly what brand and model the laptops are so that I can look at all of the options?

Thanks,

Nick

[WKenC]

Sorry, I didn't realize what you mean.

Here it is.
https://www.neverware.com/freedownload#intro-text

CPU: AMD E2-9000e REDEON R2, 4 COMPUTE CORES 2C+2G (2 threads, 1.50GHz) (I don't know anything about ARM or x86, sorry. Please explain if you don't mind.)

Thanks,
Ken

[morrownr]

Hi Ken,

AMD E2-9000e REDEON R2, 4 COMPUTE CORES

It appears your laptops are of the amd64 world, not the ARM world.

(I don't know anything about ARM or x86, sorry. Please explain if you don't mind.)

Sure. While there are several suppliers of computer/device CPU's, there are really only 2 majors types: ARM and Intel/AMD. When trying to work issues such as yours or working on code, I really helps to know which major type of CPU is involved. I realize that this is the short version but maybe some searching can provide more information.

The CPU in your laptops could be used Chromebooks or regular laptops, it would appear. Now I need to know if you systems are Chromebooks. Chromebooks say Chromebook somewhere on the outside of the case.

I also need to know what your wifi requirements are:

Do you need a dual band adapter or will single band, 2.4 GHz adapters work fine?

I have not had time to install the distro you are using yet as I am slowed by some health issues but I do intend to do so as able. I have been able to do some research and I have tested on a regular Chromebook. What I know:

Google decided to include certain in-kernel drivers for USB WiFi adapters starting in 2018. While the support is there, Goggle does does not provide a list of the drivers/chipsets that are supported. I can discover and provide this information. My initial testing on a Chromebook indicates the following are supported:

Amazon - $15 USD - (nano) Panda PAU03 (b/g/n) 150Mbps Wireless-N 2.4GHz USB Adapter [1]

Amazon - $7 USD - (nano) Zibo Mini USB Wifi Wireless Adapter, 150Mbps

There are likely others that are supported but it will take me time to determine which. What you could do is order one of each of the above and do your own test to see if one or both meets your need.

Please keep me advised as it will help me add a section to this site that will help those with your problem in the future.

Regards

[WKenC]

Hello Nick,

Thank you very much for your thoroughness in resolving my technical issue. The computer is not built as a chromebook and it does not have any letter or logo associated with that on the case. It was built as a Windows 10 pc. Since its hardware is too minimal and can barely run the Windows system (slow response, long delays, not enough disk space for updates nor addition of users... just to name a few), I decide to convert it to run linux. And since I have a chromebook (also by HP), I notice the similarity between the machines' hardwares. Therefore I give it a go to change the OS to chrome (and so happen I stumble upon CloudReady), but then it turns out the machine can run the chrome OS but it loses the wifi capability. Among some helpful folks on the internet, they suggest to use a usb wifi adapter to fill the gap. I put in the old Linksys WUSB54GC (more than 3 inches long) and it works, which leads me to thinking that ANY usb wifi adapter will work but obviously I was wrong.

Single band 2.4 GHz is fine and good enough for any elementary kid to do homework (dual band is a wishful plus).

From some California kids and myself, thank you again. And we do pray that your health issue will also resolve quickly and be healed.

Best regards,
Ken

[morrownr]

Ken,

I just happened to think. If I know the internal wifi chipset I might be able to suggest some options that don't cost you anything.

In the Chrome browser, run:

chrome://system

and tell me what lspci says.

Nick