Wi-Spy vs. Wi-Spy 2.4x for home use?
Submitted by transco on Fri, 12/14/2007 - 20:28.
Unfortunately I didn't find the Wi-Spy until after its price was doubled. At the current price it is a bit difficult to justify for 'amateur home use'. Basically I have a mixed signal environment consisting of single-frequency and spread-spectrum wireless phones, WiFi b, g, n nodes, and the usual noise sources such as a microwave oven, etc. My goal is to identify the signal sources, optimize locations for phone base stations and WiFi Access Points and repeaters. Is the Wi-Spy V1 good enough for that (I'll be running the software on a Mac)? Being retired, money is always tight. It comes down to buying the Wi-Spy V1 now, or the Wi-Spy 2.4x 'some day'. Comments? Suggestions?
I much prefer Wi-Spy 2.4x over the original Wi-Spy v1 due to the enhanced resolution and increased amplitude range. But, for home use a Wi-Spy v1 should be fine. If someone has need for a spectrum analyzer more than once a month I recommend the Wi-Spy 2.4x, but for occasional and/or home use a Wi-Spy v1 will work just fine.
For a decent comparison check out our sample recordings section (under support/docs) for screenshots of Wi-Spy v1 and Wi-Spy 2.4x. The cordless phone recordings are a great comparison as there is a screenshot of each Wi-Spy from the same environment.
Ryan
Chief Geek
I have studied the sample recordings and there is no question the increased frequency and amplitude resolution would be an asset, even for my simple needs. In addition the Wi-Spy 2.4x would allow me to connect my 'Pringle Can' antenna to localize interference sources, etc. You guys have an old beat up prototype with a cracked case held together with electrical tape? Senior discount?