July 2nd, 2008
Linksys WRT610N Wi-Fi router delivers dual bands, simultaneously
If you’re the type who likes to wirelessly stream HD video from your PC to your TV, or if you live in a densely populated environment that’s packed with interference in the 2.4GHz range, listen up. Linksys has unveiled a dual-band Draft N Wi-Fi router that can take care of you.
The Simultaneous Dual-N Band Wireless Router (WRT610N), available now at a list price of $199.99 (you can get it here for $149.99), aims to achieve Draft N performance in both the 5GHz and 2.4 GHz spectrums. The dual-bander effectively provides two networks to which you can connect devices. You’ll want to attach Media Center Extenders, media receivers, and other wireless video players to the 5GHz band, which is less crowded because it provides 20 nonoverlapping channels (as opposed to three in the 2.4GHz spectrum). The 5GHz band doesn’t share the same range as household devices like microwave ovens, baby monitors, and 2.4GHz cordless phones, so you won’t experience network cut-outs when those devices are in use.
Linksys says the WRT610N is the first dual-band router that allows you to use Wireless-N network speeds on both bands at the same time (hence the added adjective in the product name). The WRT610N is designed so that its 5GHz band automatically gives priority to high-definition video without the need for manual configuration. PC users can tweak their networks to give priority to certain devices, like gaming consoles, over others.
The WRT610N is housed in Linksys’ attractive new industrial design, with a midnight blue border framing the glossy black chassis.
Oh, and here’s a bonus for you greenies: Linksys uses environmentally friendly packaging for the WRT610N, including a box constructed of recycled and biodegradable materials, along with inks made from soy and vegetables.
For the past 15 years, Rik Fairlie has covered technology and the business of technology for numerous publications and Web sites. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
