Home Theater Forum  ›  Forums  ›  Hi-Definition  ›  HT Hardware - High Definition  ›  Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?
Forum Nav More Forums | All New Posts | New Thread

Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

#1
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 2:44am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194
Okay, this is going to sound silly, but in the end I am certain there
must be a solution.

I am adding a second BD LIVE player to my home. It's going downstairs
where I have absolutely no ethernet connection. Furthermore, I don't want
the cost of adding another line to that location.

Is there an ethernet bridge/antenna that I can plug into the ethernet
slot to pick up the Wi-Fi signal in my home that will enable my BD Player
to access BD Live material?

If so, what is the name of what I must look for?

Thanks in advance.
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#2
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 3:38am
  • Joined: September 1998
  • Post Count: 1,496

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Wouldn't using a PS3 accomplish this? I know Morgan can get online wirelessly when he comes here using that player.
Export to Wiki
#3
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 3:48am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

A PS3 might, but I didn't buy a PS3.

I need an antenna for the Panasonic BD player I just bought.

Thanks anyways, Scoot!
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#4
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 4:10am
  • Joined: September 1998
  • Post Count: 1,496

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Off the top of my head, the only things I can think to sugest would the the ethernet adapter for XBox or, if there is a USB port on the player, a USB wireless adapter.
Export to Wiki
#5
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 4:49am
  • Joined: December 1998
  • Location: Michigan
  • Post Count: 7,661

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Several companies sell wireless ethernet bridges or wireless game adapters that would meet this need. Most of them are around $80 - $100, though. I've been looking for such a device to connect my BD player and AV receiver to my home network, but I've been waiting until I can find something less expensive.

A co-worker told me this unit can be setup in bridge mode, but I have not had time to verify that information yet.
My DVD Collection
My Equipment List

My Photo Gallery
Export to Wiki
#6
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 6:31am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Location: Amsterdam, Holland
  • Post Count: 16,286

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Ron,

I've been using this Linksys WET54G WiFi/LAN bridge for some years on different PC's already. Haven't used it on any of my HD players, though. I don't know why it shouldn't work in that case as well.

You need to set it up (letting it make contact with your WiFi AP and enter the security keys) on a PC. When it's set, you can use it on other ethernet ports.

I don't know about prices in the US.


Cees
HTF Rules (uhm ... and has Rules)
Export to Wiki
#7
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 6:39am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

I see it here on Amazon

Mixed reviews. Looks like it will be a real pain-in-the-ass to
set up, but then again, what router isn't?!

Thanks, Cees!
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#8
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 7:19am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Location: Amsterdam, Holland
  • Post Count: 16,286

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Ron,

It's a bit of a pain alright, but it does have a setup wizard. In fact, when setting it up, you don't have to literally connect it to the PC on which you are running the wizard. All the wizard needs is to see the device on your LAN, so plugging in an ethernet cable (at that point the WiFi isn't working of course) in one of your switches (or a free port on the AP) will do the trick as well.

However, you may want to use it on one of your PCs at least once, to see if it really works.


Cees
HTF Rules (uhm ... and has Rules)
Export to Wiki
#9
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 7:50am
  • Joined: January 1999
  • Post Count: 275

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Ron -

What about using Powerline technology? I use it at home and have it connected to my DVR and Blu-Ray player in a room at the opposite end of the house. Works great - and have had no issues connecting to BD Live content.

This is what I have:

Linksys.com - Products/Home/Networking/Powerline & Phoneline/PLK200

Colin
Export to Wiki
#10
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 8:48am
  • Joined: March 2000
  • Post Count: 584

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Ron

Look for a wireless ethernet bridge or a wireless print server.

I picked up a couple of these NETGEAR WGPS606 54 Mbps Wireless Print Server with 4-Port Switch - bridge specs

They have 4 ethernet and 2 USB ports so I was able to connect my DirecTV DVR, Blu and HD-DVD player all to one box. That leaves me with an extra for potential expansion in the future. It is really easy to set up and I haven't had a problem since I installed them. I found mine for $20 a few months ago and couldn't be happier.

Every child has many wishes. Some include a wallet, two chicks, and a cigar, but that's another story.
 
Export to Wiki
#11
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 9:42am
  • Joined: December 1998
  • Location: Michigan
  • Post Count: 7,661

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Doug,

Where did you find that Netgear print server for $20? It's $75 - $80 everywhere I look.
My DVD Collection
My Equipment List

My Photo Gallery
Export to Wiki
#12
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 10:07am
  • Joined: March 2000
  • Post Count: 584

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

I found it at CompUSA on a clearance deal but more recently on Ecost. It is a discontinued model so it shows up periodically for sale on closeout. I will do a little hunting and see if I can find it cheaper.

Every child has many wishes. Some include a wallet, two chicks, and a cigar, but that's another story.
 
Export to Wiki
#13
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 10:15am
  • Joined: March 2000
  • Post Count: 584

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Scott, I found them for $30 here Netgear WGPS606 Wireless Print Server - SALE PRICE: $29.78 which is a good deal. I I suspect you could get them lower if you kept your eyes open but for $10 I would jump now.

Every child has many wishes. Some include a wallet, two chicks, and a cigar, but that's another story.
 
Export to Wiki
#14
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 11:25am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

This sounds like a GREAT deal. THANK YOU.

Before I jump on it...you sure this is what I need and it will work?
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#15
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 11:52am
  • Joined: March 2000
  • Post Count: 584

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Ron

It hooks right up to your current wireless router with a very easy setup and will give you ethernet to 4 devices, more if you hook up a hub.

I have two of them, one in each set-up and they have been flawless and required no maintenance at all. It will do the trick for you.

*Hint* There are several blue lights on the front that flash, which can be distracting in a theater environment, slip some tape over the lights and you are good to go

Every child has many wishes. Some include a wallet, two chicks, and a cigar, but that's another story.
 
Export to Wiki
#16
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 11:57am
  • Joined: December 1998
  • Location: Michigan
  • Post Count: 7,661

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Doug,

Thank you! I've been looking for a reasonable price on something like this. I just placed an order - $37 shipped.

Ron, that Netgear unit should work fine for what you intend. You are trying to accomplish the exact same thing as me.
My DVD Collection
My Equipment List

My Photo Gallery
Export to Wiki
#17
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 12:00pm
  • Joined: January 2003
  • Post Count: 12,009

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Ron, I just wanted to speak about the Linksys Wireless Bridge:

I have the B version of the bridge for my ReplayTV connection and while it works beautifully, it tends to lose it's connection every few weeks. I brought this up in another forum and other members seemed to have similar issues.

I'm not sure if the G version is better at this, but just wanted to warn you about it. Although, the problem is always solved by unplugging and plugging the unit back in, so it's not the end of the world.
Export to Wiki
#18
Rating: 0
12/18/08 at 12:10pm
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

You guys are the best!

ORDERED!
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#19
Rating: 0
12/20/08 at 9:19am
  • Joined: April 2000
  • Location: Dallas TX
  • Post Count: 2,482

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Quote:
Originally Posted by MarkHastings
I'm not sure if the G version is better at this, but just wanted to warn you about it. Although, the problem is always solved by unplugging and plugging the unit back in, so it's not the end of the world.

I've had the G version hooked to my Tivo HD for a few months and haven't had any problems. I'm very pleased with it so far.

DVD & Blu-ray - It's all about the movies!
Export to Wiki
#20
Rating: 0
12/21/08 at 1:20pm
  • Joined: October 1999
  • Post Count: 1,545

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

I use a DLink DPR-1260 Print server and Dlink DES-1105 to connect my HDDVD and Denon 4806CI to the web. Works like a champ.
Export to Wiki
#21
Rating: 0
12/24/08 at 4:03am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Still have not received this unit yet thought it shipped a few days
ago.

One more question....

This Netgear print server is being used at the opposite end of
the house. I plan to use it for two inputs: A BD player for BD LIVE
purposes and my TIVO so I can eliminate the slow phone connection.

Question....

Should this print server automatically pick up the wireless signal
in my home?

Since I have WEP security, I take it that both the TIVO and BD PLAYER
will recognize the hardwire ethernet connection and their software will
allow me to enter that security code?
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#22
Rating: 0
12/24/08 at 5:24am
  • Joined: November 2000
  • Post Count: 279

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Yes/No. In the setup of the Wireless Print server (access point), you will just need to enter your WEP SSID and "Passphrase" or SecurityID. This is where the setup will take place. Not on the BD/Tivo gear.

I have a Linksys wireless access point connected to a cheap-o 4pt hub. The hub is connected to my PS3 and Xbox360. No issues with dropping connections or having to reset anything.

The wireless access point is what you need to configure to your wireless network.
Export to Wiki
#23
Rating: 0
12/24/08 at 5:47am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Hank,

I will need something to be able to see the setup process.

Let me give you an example....

I am still waiting on the Netgear unit but have no phone line to the
Tivo so now I am relying on an old Linksys Print Server which I am
attaching between the Tivo (ETHERNET) and the Print Server (LAN).

I am guessing to set up the print server to work with the
Tivo I am going to have to use the Tivo software to tell it that I have
an ethernet connection of some sort, and hope that it asks me for
the WEP code.

Sound right?
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#24
Rating: 0
12/24/08 at 7:01am
  • Joined: November 2000
  • Post Count: 279

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Does not sound right. When I setup my access point. I had it 'hard wired' with a ethernet cable from my wireless router (connected to my pc) to the access point. Then I could see/all the setting I needed to apply to the access point via computer monitor. The few access points I have setup have all be "cabled" first for setup, then once configured, you turn it off and turn it back on to apply the new settings (SSID/Password). Now, anything plugged into this access point will be just like it's plugged directly into the router.

To see the setup process, you will be working on your computer monitor. Then, once that is configured, and you plug the ethernet cable from the access point to the Tivo, it should connect right to the internet/network.

I have never seen any Tivo or BD devices have any type of configuration setting for a wireless network. The device would HAVE to HAVE a built-in Wireless card for that to be the case. I'm pretty sure Tivo does not have that ...yet.

stop making it hard.. you are thinking too much A "setup wizard" usually comes with the devices/access point.
Export to Wiki
#25
Rating: 0
12/24/08 at 7:58am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

The only problem is, the setup wizards are usually for PC.
I am on a Mac.

Let me make sure I get this right....

I configure the wireless point via my PC (or hopefully MAC) wired.
Once configured, I can disconnect it and place it anywhere in my
home where it will pick up the WiFi signal.

Correct?
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#26
Rating: 0
12/24/08 at 10:23am
  • Joined: November 2000
  • Post Count: 279

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

YES.. YES.. OMG.. YES... . (and you should be able to do it with the Mac also)


uh, yep, you got it Tex! See how easy it is
Export to Wiki
#27
Rating: 0
12/24/08 at 7:26pm
  • Joined: December 1998
  • Location: Michigan
  • Post Count: 7,661

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Ronald Epstein
The only problem is, the setup wizards are usually for PC.
I am on a Mac.

Let me make sure I get this right....

I configure the wireless point via my PC (or hopefully MAC) wired.
Once configured, I can disconnect it and place it anywhere in my
home where it will pick up the WiFi signal.

Correct?
Ron,

My Netgear arrived today and I successfully got it setup. After downloading the setup wizard from the Netgear website, I plugged my PC directly into one of the ethernet ports of the print server. The setup wizard will walk you through everything.

My home wireless security is normally WPA-PSK with my SSID broadcast turned off. I had to turn on the broadcast of the SSID for the print server to see my DLINK wireless router. Once the configuration was complete, though, I was able to turn off SSID broadcast again and the print server still connected to the network.

The only other issue I had was the Netgear was failing to connect after I entered my WPA passcode during setup. It turned out to be the Windows firewall software I had enabled on the PC -- once I temporarily disabled that, the print server synched up with my wireless network. The error message even states one of the causes could be the firewall.

Remember to add additional DHCP addresses to your scope range, too, if you have that limited. I had mine limited to two addresses initially for the two PCs on our home network. I needed to increase this to five addresses -- one for each of the two PCs, one for the Netgear, one for the Pioneer Elite Receiver, and one for the Sony BDP-S350 BD player.

I do not see a setup wizard for Mac OS on the Netgear website. The support link where I found the wizard is here.

Good luck.
My DVD Collection
My Equipment List

My Photo Gallery
Export to Wiki
#28
Rating: 0
12/25/08 at 2:59am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

This is pretty scary that there is no Mac setup software. I may
have needlessly spent my money on this product.

I can log into windows on my Mac. The problem is, it may not
let me configure the Netgear unit. I just had a Fios installer here
the other day who could not setup the Verizon router through my
Virtual PC software on my Mac.

I could be in trouble here.
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
#29
Rating: 0
12/25/08 at 4:52am
  • Joined: December 1998
  • Location: Michigan
  • Post Count: 7,661

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Ron,

Do you have access to a laptop you can borrow from someone to run the setup? If not, hopefully the setup wizard will work through the Windows mode on your Mac.
My DVD Collection
My Equipment List

My Photo Gallery
Export to Wiki
#30
Rating: 0
12/25/08 at 5:15am
  • Joined: July 1997
  • Post Count: 20,194

Re: Wi-Fi Antenna for BD Ethernet connections?

Scott,

Unfortunately, no.

Quick question: Is this Netgear device the same as a print server?
I have an old Linksys print server I could try configuring as well. I
need something to plug into my Tivo at the other end of the house
where there is no phone connection.
Ronald J Epstein
Home Theater Forum co-owner
Email me at: repstein@hometheaterforum.com 
To View My Massive DVD Collection Click Here
HTF Rules and Regulations
Export to Wiki
Forum Nav More Forums | All New Posts | New Thread