We've seen combined ADSL modem router and USB adaptor packs before and we're still not convinced of their usefulness. Almost every laptop has built-in wireless capability, while we reckon that most desktops are usually plugged into routers rather than being wireless-enabled.

However, the inclusion of an extra adaptor could still prove useful. That's because this kit brings another technology into play: US Robotics' MAXg.

Unlike just about every other wireless manufacturer, the American firm has eschewed experimental kit based on a draft version of the new 802.11n wireless specification, instead opting to wring all the possible bandwidth and range out of the existing 802.11g wireless standard.

The company launched MAXg back in 2005, at which time it argued that the technology was cheaper than the draft-802.11n kit that everyone else was bringing out. That's at least a half-truth. What can't be denied is that MAXg does help in the one crucial area for home wireless networking: range. Ah, that old chestnut...

If you've experienced problems in the past obtaining a signal in the garden, then MAXg will certainly help. Yet there's the paradox with this kit. On the one hand it's being promoted as a starter kit, but to understand why you want it probably assumes that you're already familiar with wireless technology.

To get the most out of MAXg you'll have to connect MAXg adaptors to all of your wireless-enabled machines. If that sounds too much, as it probably will, then don't despair. The device will still extend range to your non-MAXg devices - a Centrino laptop, for example. The router is available separately for 63 pounds, so the 23 pound price premium for the MAXg USB adaptor isn't excessive.

Improved interface

There's still a problem with the cost, but it lies with the 63 pounds portion instead. Seeing that most 802.11g-based wireless kit is now as common as a Starbucks coffee bar, the competition is red hot and prices are falling. For example, you can now purchase an 802.11g ADSL modem router for less than 40 pounds from Amazon.