2nd WRT54G2 doesnt work - last chance else I'll have to buy DLink

Question

I just recieved my 2nd WRT54G2 yesterday.  Set it up and it keeps dropping the internet forcing me to shut down the router and cable modem.
I use this for work so have to get a new one today or tommorrow.  I like linksys but will have to take this one back and go with DLink.
HELP!
Here's the details of my setup: what am I doing wrong!!!!!
WRT54G2  V1
Hooked up to 2 PCs and one wireless laptop
Firmware is up to date for this version router
Have set router to clone PC Mac address
Tried setting MTU from Auto 1500 to Manual 1350
Changed ethernet cable from modem to router
While waiting for my 2nd router I connected the PC directly to the cable modem and for over a week everything was fine.  Then I hook up the new (2nd) router and keep getting dropped.
Ive searched all forums on this and don't know of any other suggestions.

Answer 1

There are many causes for poor wireless connections, and many solutions:
First of all, give your network a unique SSID. Do not use "linksys". If you are using "linksys" you may be trying to connect to your neighbor's router. Also set "SSID Broadcast" to "enabled". This will help your computer find and lock on to your router's signal.
Poor wireless connections are often caused by radio interference from other 2.4 GHz devices. This includes wireless phones, wireless baby monitors, microwave ovens, wireless mice and keyboards, wireless speakers, and your neighbor's wireless network. In rare cases, Bluetooth devices can interfere. Even some 5+ GHz phones also use the 2.4 Ghz band. Unplug these devices, and see if that corrects your problem.
In your router, try a different channel. There are 11 channels in the 2.4 GHz band. Usually channel 1, 6, or 11 works best. Check out your neighbors, and see what channel they are using. Because the channels overlap one another, try to stay at least +5 or -5 channels from your strongest neighbors. For example, if you have a strong neighbor on channel 9, try any channel 1 through 4.
Also, try to locate the router about 4 to 6 feet above the floor, in an open area. Do not locate it behind your monitor or near other computer equipment or speakers. The antenna (if external) should be vertical.
Also, in the computer, go to your wireless software, and go to "Preferred Networks" (sometimes called "Profiles" ). There are probably a few networks listed. Delete any network named "linksys". Also delete any network that you do not recognize, or that you no longer use. If your current network is not listed, enter its info (SSID, encryption (if any), and key (if any) ). Then select your current network and make it your default network, and set it to automatic login. You may need to go to "settings" to do this, or you may need to right click on your network and select "Properties" or "settings".
If the above does not fix your problem, download and install the latest driver for your wireless card.
Wireless performance can be improved by switching to WPA encryption.
If you continue to have problems, try the following:
For wireless g routers, try setting the "Transmission Rate" to 54 Mbps.