D-Link jumps on the 802.11n bandwagon

By Matt Whipp

Posted on 17 Oct 2006 at 14:34

Wireless network kit builder D-Link has announced additions to its range, wired up to use the upcoming 802.11n protocol.

It is among a host of rivals champing at the bit to launch kit using the new specification, even before it is formally ratified by the IEEE body.

Belkin, Linksys, US Robotics, Buffalo and more are producing kit using the draft specification because of its promise to revolutionise the home network. Offering broader bandwidths and engineered for quality of service, 802.11n promises the ability to stream video and audio wirelessly around the home in a more robust and reliable manner.

D-Link's DSL-2740B RangeBooster N ADSL2+ Modem Router supports ADSL2+ broadband connections, with their theoretical 24Mbps top line speeds, and includes four Ethernet ports and a firewall, plus the draft 802.11n access point. D-Link is also launching client-side devices in the form of the PCI and USB DWA-547 RangeBooster N 650 and DWA-142 RangeBooster N USB adaptors.

D-Link's range is fully backwards-compatible with 802.11g and b wireless devices and includes support for WPA/WPA2 security and WEP data encryption.

'The launch of these new products further demonstrates D-Link's commitment to Draft N,' said Tahira Perveen, Country Sales Manager UK and Ireland, D- Link. 'Offering a broad range of products makes it easier to enjoy the benefits of Draft N performance, in both the business and consumer environments.'

D-Link's Draft N range will be available from this month with a recommended retail price of £119 (DSL-2740B), £60 (DWA-547) and £65 (DWA-142) exc. VAT.