Wireless backup wish list

Home office has the cable modem, router attached there and a WD MyBook backup as well. So, all my info and data is in the same room. I keep a separate hdd off site, but naturally can't backup on a daily basis due to logistics. What I would like is a backup that is located in the basement or attic that could take care of not only my desktop, but also the wife's laptop. Is there anything like this available or do I have to hardwire to my router? Online backup not an option

Didn't you just describe a Time Capsule?

Apple (Canada) - Mac - AirPort Time Capsule

Chas_m,
The time capsule is exactly what I want, but it needs to be plugged into my router, doesn't it? (I am saying this because a friend who has apple's time capsule told me this was the case).

No. Because the Time Capsule is BOTH a router AND the wireless backup system for your computers.

So all I need is a power source?

Remember, the device needs to be kept in a temperature controlled environment.
So, unless you live somewhere that the temp in your attic never reaches above perhaps 80 F nor below 0 F, the attic is out of discussion.

Does your current wifi reach these two areas?

My attic is really storage space in our Cape. It is not heated, but residual warmth from house keeps it to at least 50 during the coldest times of the year. My basement is where I will place the time capsule, however. It isn't either, but never needs more than a sweater when working there in Jan. or Feb.

Basement I wouldn't worry about - unless it is damp - heat and moisture are the killers of electronics.

Still need to know - Can you pick up your current wifi signal in either of those 2 places?

Yes, I get a good signal strength at either location

In that case, you should be able to set up the Time Machine in bridged mode and extend the existing network. This way they'll be no need for the users to change networks for TM to work.

I am still using the first gen TM, now over 5 yrs, which holds the TM backups for 3 Macs (edit: up to 4 as of last weekend) - all backing up wirelessly every hour with very few issues.

While I actually ran 100' CAT5E cable and have mine running a 2nd wifi network, I did test via wifi a few years ago with success and was able to set it up that way.
I needed the cable because I move 24-32 GB single files around the network.
You should, however, do the initial backup with both machines wired.
After that, you shouldn't run into many issues doing the incrementals via wifi.

Thanks bobtomay. You've been big help

NP - You should be able to find a couple of tutorials on how to set it up in bridged mode via google.