rebroadcasting wireless signal

I have a linksys wusb54gvz and wrk54g router. Problem is: I pick up a signal from the source, and the linksys utility tells me i am connected to the router and the internet, I am putting out a signal from the router, but can’t surf with my laptop. I can access the router wirelessly. Is it possible to do what I am trying to do? Could a low signal from the source have an adverse effect on redistributing the signal? Any help is appreciated!!