With over one billion wireless-enabled devices predicted to be shipped in 2011¹, consumers are demanding the best possible wireless connection to get the most out of the growing number of gadgets in their homes. To help address this, D-Link today announced the launch of its revolutionary, patented SmartBeam™ technology, featured for the first time within the new Wireless N Router with SmartBeam™ Technology (DIR-645). This technology enables the router to continually survey the signal strength of multiple connected devices to provide a stable, seamless and interference-free wireless connection anywhere within the home. Consumers will experience a home network with wired speeds, but with wireless freedom, and no coverage ‘black spots’. D-Link also announced an addition to its Wireless N router line, the Wireless N HD Media Router (DIR-657) targeted at digital media enthusiasts.

Connect with intelligent SmartBeam™ technology

The Wireless N Router with SmartBeam™ Technology features a sleek, distinctive design with six ‘smart antennae’ built-into the router, meaning that it identifies where devices such as media players, IP cameras, wireless printers and laptops are and targets them more accurately with a direct beam. So whether the device is located in a basement, in an extension or up in the loft, it will receive the strongest and most consistent signal possible. The router provides connectivity to meet any digital demand: it is ideal for users who have wireless-enabled devices to connect on a network, and for people who stream HD films or enjoy high-performance gaming, for which having a stable connection is essential. Users will be free to roam around the house without the risk of dropping a Skype call, and not have to worry about an HD video download being interrupted.

Kevin Wen, President of D-Link Europe, said: “We love pushing the boundaries of design to ensure the consumer has the best possible experience, and what could be more innovative than an intelligent router that identifies where wireless devices are and provides a better signal? Inspired by beamforming technology, the result is that consumers can now benefit from technology which was previously reserved for enterprise-grade applications. D-Link is proud to be the first company to bring this technology to market, blending our existing leadership in Wireless N with our networking expertise and understanding of the consumer’s needs in their Digital Home.”

All end users will have a noticeably improved experience as the signal is more concentrated, it can travel further distances without losing strength and interference from other wireless devices, a common occurrence in urban areas where multiple Wi-Fi devices are operating. The DIR-645 also supports standards-based technology defined by the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA), which enables users to easily share multimedia content and applications thanks to the built-in media server. It features SharePort™ technology which enables USB devices, for example a USB printer or hard drive, to be inserted directly into the router and then shared across other devices on the network. This Wireless N Router is IPv6-ready in preparation for the future Internet standard.

New HD Media Router

The new Wireless N HD Media Router (DIR-657) has been designed to optimise the online entertainment experience, whether HD streaming or gaming. The new model includes a number of exciting features together for the first time in one product, providing AV enthusiasts with added value when they choose to upgrade their router. The in-built DLNA-certified media server means users can simply connect a USB hard drive via the embedded SharePort™, and the router will stream music, movies and pictures onto a compatible media player, such as a Boxee Box by D-Link, on the network, to multiple devices at the same time. The convenient SD card slot also allows users to insert a memory card straight out of their camera and then stream directly to a media player. The Wireless N HD Media Router is also IPv6-ready.

_{1 HIS iSuppli, April 2011}