This D-Link Network Adapter is D-Lightful!

Ok, I know the title is corny...but it's true!

Why I needed it...
I was given a Lenovo 3000 C100 series notebook (running WinXP) a little over a year ago, and it came with pre-installed network and wireless cards. Unfortunately, the network card died 2 days before the warranty was to expire, and I wasn't able to have it replaced. At home I can use my wireless network to get online, but I sometimes like to bring the notebook to work, and wireless is not an option there. So, I needed to be able to hook my computer up to the DSL line. The quickest and simplest way for me to solve that problem was picking up a network adapter.

I did some research on prices, and aside from one cheaper one, the lowest price on notebook network adapters was $29.99. I needed it in a hurry, because I was on my way to work and I had plenty of distance learning coursework to keep up with. The most convenient store that was open that morning was Office Max, and the adapter I found was the D-Link DFE-690TXD. I really only picked it because it was there, and it was the price I was expecting to pay. There were other more expensive brands, but I was pretty sure this was all I needed.

Installation and use...
I got to work and fired up my computer, ready to install the D-Link. It couldn't have been any easier. I used the CD to install the driver (the CD is needed for XP/ME/98/2000), and it was ready to go in a minute or two. After that, you just put it in and plug your cable into it and you're good to connect. You can put it in and take it out as needed, and this can be done while Windows is running. This adapter will work with all of the Windows listed above, and also Vista and Mac OS X, according to the documentation. I would like to mention that I have heard about some people having problems with the drivers on OS X, so I would do some research on that if you plan to use it with a Mac.

The adapter itself is pretty straightforward. It has two LEDs to indicate 10Mbps Link/Activity and 100Mbps Link/Activity. It sticks out a bit from the notebook, so I would recommend that you exercise care in handling your notebook when it's plugged in, so as not to put pressure in the adapter. I usually keep my notebook on a desk at work, so it's not a problem.

Performance...
The DSL line at work is usually pretty slow. To make matters worse, the main internet computer there is quite old, making the internet connection incredibly sluggish. With my newer notebook and the D-Link, I feel like I am squeezing more speed out of the connection. It works just as well as when I was able to plug the DSL into my onboard network card. I would definitely recommend this adapter to anyone else who needs an alternate way to use a wired internet connection with a notebook.

When you're not using the D-Link, it comes with a plastic case for safe keeping and carrying.

Conclusion...
Overall, this was a really simple and relatively cheap solution to my problem. I have a D-Link wireless router at home that works quite well for me, and this adapter has done the same. I definitely recommend looking into D-Link products!

For technical specs and other information from D-Link about this adapter, please visit:
http://www.dlink.com/products/?pid=132