I think I've sorted out my sporadic dropouts but now have a new one. As per my previous posts, I have a Samsung NP900X3D-A01 (upgraded to Windows 8) and a Billion 7800N modem/router.
Everything in this thread was tried and I also worked with Dale from Intel in trying to sort this out.....nothing worked except for setting it to Wireless G mode only.
I decided to buy a new modem a few weeks ago and purchased a Billion 7800NXL as I my original one was around 4 years old when wireless N was still a 'draft'. I have not had the sporadic dropouts while on wireless N mode since the upgrade.
However my only issue now is that, when the computer comes out of resume/sleep the wireless network has limited connectivity. From resume/sleep, the network card will show it as connected, but there is no network connectivity, it will then show limited connectivity with absolutely no network connectivity. I'm still trying to fix this.
I traded one problem for another, but at least I have a stable wireless N connection.
Also purchasing new hardware isn't the solution!