Wireless Reviews

Inside

These two bridges are similar in design in that both use Realtek SoCs for their processors and radios. The table has the rundown of the key components. Not shown is the Realtek ALC5629 I2S/PCM Audio DAC that the Edimax uses to drive its audio-out jack for its AirPlay support.

We've seen the RTL8197D processor in D-Link's DIR-850L router and more recently in its DNR-202L Network Video Recorder. Edimax also uses the RTL8192DR dual-band radio in its EW-7238RPD repeater.

Here's a shot of the Edimax' board with its RF shields removed.

Edimax CV-7438nDM board

Remember that I mentioned its antenna positioning? Here's a look at the inside with yellow arrows pointing to the two patch-style antennas. This picture has the device sitting as it would in normal use.

Edimax CV-7438nDM antenna detail

The WNCE3001's board has its two dual-band antennas integrated into the board. This is why you want to stand it up and point its wide side toward the router you are connecting to.

NETGEAR WNCE3001 board