Hardware Digital Hotspotter
For anyone that is on the lookout for wireless hotspots, this is thetool. Unlike the old-style wi-fi detectors that simply show you a signal, the Canary Hotspotter gives you important details about the hot spot. I can’t tell you the number of times my old wi-fi detector told me there was a network, only for me to find out later that it required a password or was otherwise locked.
The Hotspotter not only tells you whether there is a wi-fi signal and its strength, but the name of the network (so you know if you are seeing the coffeehouse or the people living above it), and most important, whether it’s password protected. If it’s password protected, no need to stop for coffee and pull out your laptop if you can’t use the network there. (note that some places charge for access, which lets you on their network,but require you to login to connect).
I also use this device in homes sometimes to find out which part of the room has the best signal. This helps you know where to place a booster device such as an Airport Express Base Station. My major complaint is that the Canary Hotspotter is not terribly ergonomic. It doesn’t fit well in my bag and is way too big for a keychain. It might work well on a purse strap. Unfortunately,my batteries run out quickly on the device if I’m not careful, because the button often gets pressed accidentally while it’s in my laptop bag. What is it: A simple device that is the “better mousetrap” for wi-fi detectors.
Pros: Finds wireless networks you can actually use!
Cons: Poor ergonomics make it difficult to carry in a laptop bag.
4 out of 5 dog cows
