Wireless network signal strength issues

[glossy]

Okay, so I've just fixed a mate's computer, and installed a wireless network card in the process. The aerial comes out directly out of the back of the card, plugged into a PCI slot in the computer. Problem when I installed it was that the network showed "no signal strength". I dismissed it as a pointless issue, since I could connect to other computers and the internet without any issues. Apparently it was an issue :\

Problem being here, the network is dropping about 6% of the packets, which means MSN Messenger is disconnecting about every 10 minutes when accessing the internet otherwise, and about every 30-40 minutes when using MSN by itself. Is there any easy software way to increase signal strength, or resolve the dropping packets issue (rather, to make the dropped packets unnoticeable); or, a solution other than buying another card (can't return it, I don't think) that I can resolve the signal strength?

I had the thought that I could possibly make a cable to connect to the plug in the card that connects to the aerial, to enable me to move the aerial to somewhere else, but I'd rather explore the issue for other solutions before I purchase the wire, connectors, etc.

Might also add that the wireless card I put in was a D-link AirPlus DWL-G520, and the router is listed as Belkin 54g wireless, but doesn't have any clues on the router itself toward model number or the like.

Thanks for your help Q3W

[shadd_.]

set the router and client card to 1mbps instead of auto.

if you have no problems at 1mbps, go up to the next selectable speed and try.

there is cheap aerial solutions available for the home you could check into.