Wi-Spy Comparison
| Wi-Spy Comparison Table | |||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Wi-Spy v1 |
Wi-Spy 2.4x* |
Wi-Spy DBx* |
|
| Antenna | Internal PCB Trace Antenna | External, RP-SMA | External, RP-SMA |
| Bandwidth | 2400 to 2482 MHz | 2400 to 2483.5 MHz |
2.4GHz: 2.400 to 2.495 5GHz: 5.150 to 5.850 |
| Frequency Resolution | 1 MHz | 328 KHz |
2.4GHz: 398.44 KHz 5GHz: 327.393 KHz |
| Bandwidth Resolution | 337.5KHz |
2.4GHz: 406.25 KHz 5GHz: 375 KHz |
|
| Amplitude Range | -97 dBm to -50.5 dBm | -110 dBm to -6.5 dBm | -110 dBm to -6.5 dBm |
| Amplitude Resolution | 1.5 dBm | 0.5 dBm | 0.5 dBm |
| Sweep Time | 120 millisecond | 350 milliseconds |
2.4GHz: .3 seconds 5GHz: 2.97 seconds |
*Most of the values for the Wi-Spy 2.4x and Wi-Spy DBx can be adjusted in hardware configuration using the latest Chanalyzer.
The best solution for troubleshooting wireless networks is the Wi-Spy DBx. This analyzes all access points using 802.11a/b/g/n. The Wi-Spy v1 and Wi-Spy 2.4x only scan the 2.4GHz range (802.11b/g).
The Wi-Spy v1 is limited to Chanalyzer 2.1. The Wi-Spy 2.4x and the Wi-Spy DBx are compatible with the latest Chanalyzer and have enough resolution to identify types of interference whether they be a microwave or a cordless phone.
 802.11g: Using Wi-Spy v1 |
 802.11g: Using Wi-Spy 2.4x or DBx |
"So which one to buy? If you're just doing the occasional spectrum sweep, or just curious about the 2.4 GHz airwaves around you, $200 is probably enough to spend to scratch that itch. But wireless installers on a budget and other folks who charge for their services would be better off spending the extra $200 for the extra range and, more importantly, frequency resolution of the 2.4x. As the earlier screenshots show, the difference is both clear and provides value. And don't forget the ability to attach directional antennas!" (Tim Higgins, SmallNetBuilder.com)