Advice on Range

Ok, so lightning hit near church and managed to get a surge to our network router, which promptly “shared it” with the wireless access point, switch, numerous computers and other sundry items. That means, among other things, I've had the chance to go on a “get new stuff quick” shopping spree or two.

I went with my old standby, a WRT54G router from Linksys for the main router and access point (replacing a BEFSR81 8-port wired router and an Apple Airport Extreme working as an access point) coupled with a donated 16-port D-Link switch. I replaced the Linksys standard antennae with a pair of CompUSA branded 9 dB ones.

I'm getting much better range than before (despite the Airport being hooked up to a nice range extending antenna), but I'm still not satisfied. I'd like to blanket 500 or so feet with Wi-Fi, if possible. So, I'm looking at the options, such as an affordable outdoor Wi-Fi antenna (I classify complete solution that I can add to the router for less than $150 as affordable for this purpose). It needs to be omni-directional to be really useful, so cantennas are out, though perhaps not for another project (I'd like to send a signal about 1/2 mile at another locale).

Any suggestions on how I might go 500 ft. omni-directionally or 3,000 ft. mono-directionally?

Oh, as a hat tip to new blog reader M. M. and her husband, I just had some wonderful cake with strawberry filling from the Dierbergs' Bakery. I highly recommend it!