Linksys Access Point :: WAP160N Connection Dropping?

I just bought a WAP160N to replace our WAP54G because my Samsung Glaxay 3 could not use the internet through our WAP54G (not sure if Galaxy 3 doesn't like G mode networks). The problem we have after installing the WAP160N is that the signal doesn't extend as far in the house as the WAP54G. We have the routers up the front end of the house (the WAP160N is wired to our Netcomm router) and when you go to the kitchen (in the middle of the house) the signal from the WAP160N is being lost/fluctuating, then dropping on devices such as iPads. We have WAP160N set to mixed mode on 2.4Ghz, AES or TKIP. I tried setting it to 5Ghz but that didn't work either. We always had signal strength in the kitchen when using the WAP54G. if the WAP160N can not extend its signal further or the same distance as the WAP54G? I find it odd that the iPads can't hold the connection in the kitchen, when we've always been able to use internet/wifi there. I'm thinking of returning the WAP160N if the signal cannot extend far enough. router that can extend the signal far throughout a house?