OK, I'm an old fart electronic engineer but that doesn't mean crap when it comes to computers...

I just ordered my first laptop computer and it is WiFi enabled.

I am going to use this computer to capture long term web camera input from my telescope in my back yard.

Since I'm WiFi ignorant the question is - if I buy a WiFi card for my in-house desk tower computer will the two computers talk to each other to share files ie. can I transfer the captured video from my laptop to my desktop directly over WiFi or do I have to get some sort of local WiFi router, hub or what-ever????

Buy a wireless router...... Can connect the house PC via wireless (with a card) or wired directly.

yes, but it's not as simple as a plug and play thing.  you will need to set up a home network to do it.

Buy this.

Plug the broadband cable into that... then plug the router into your desktop... then right click the folder with your stuff in it (on the laptop)... then select sharing... then select share folder on network... then rejoice in the glory that is wireless fidelity.

(Make sure you set up a netowrk first... really easy...)

Thanks guys, I guess you answered my question...

Sounds like the two computers can't talk to each other directly over WiFi and I need to buy some sort of wireless router.

Unfortunately I don't have broadband access, dial up only - so typical broadband routers really do nothing for me....

Thanks

Quoted: yes, but it's not as simple as a plug and play thing.  you will need to set up a home network to do it.

Its very simple.... Plug, click "share" play

No you can setup a AdHuc network between the two computers over the wifi

Quoted: No you can setup a AdHuc network between the two computers over the wifi

Yep, that will work fine.  On the other hand WiFi routers can be really cheap, on sale and with rebates.  

Not only can you fileshare... if both computers are on, you can print from your laptop to your desktop's printer.  Enable filesharing and printer sharing.  I do this at home.

Your new wireless router will have instructions how to do this.

You do not need a wireless card in your desktop... like the other guy said, you just need a wireless router plugged in between your present LAN line and your computer.

Wireless routers are not expensive now.  You want 802.11G or "G-plus" for highest speed.  I am using the D- Link DL-524 which I got for about $20 from Tigerdirect.com.  It is a "factory refurbished" unit with full waranty.

You may have a little trouble getting your laptop to work... there will be an on-off switch for the radio.  You may need to go into the properties of the wireless and "enable".  

Here you go, get one FREE.  D-Link is very good about getting the rebates to you.

www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1770703&sku=D700-2284%20ISS