Kanex's mLinq, AirBlue make computer-AV connections
updated 09:30 pm EDT, Tue May 24, 2011
Bluetooth audio or USB-to-HDMI devices
Computer desktop and notebook owners now have an extra option for adding a second external monitor to their machines, or connecting their computers to their HDTVs will full 1080p vision and sound -- or adding Bluetooth audio to non-BT receivers, courtesy two new devices from AV peripheral maker Kanex. The Kanex mLinq is a $99 USB to HDMI adapter, while the AirBlue lets users stream music from their portable bluetooth devices to car radios, receivers or anything with an audio input port.
The mLinq USB-to-HDMI converter works in harmony with the existing miniDisplayPort output on recent computers for extended destkops, and also offers HDMI connectivity to legacy Macs and PCs (2006-2009) that don't have miniDisplayPort. On most recent computers, up to three screens can be supported.
For Macs, the device does require a driver that limits it to Intel-only units, but consists of a one-time software install and after that the device is completely plug-and-play, even supporting hot swapping with no need for hardware updates (the device comes with a software driver for Windows as well). The unit is bus-powered and features a power-indicator light.
Because the HDMI connection carries both sound and video, it is ideal for users who want to hardwire their computer to their HDTV as either a primary or secondary screen. The unit supports resolutions from 480i up to 1600x1200.
The company has also debuted the AirBlue, a $49 battery-powered miniature Bluetooth receiver that turns any audio device with an input port into a Bluetooth receiver for A2DP Bluetooth-enabled smartphones and music players such as the iPhone and iPod Touch. The battery in the device can be charged using a USB connector, and should last approximately 20 hours on a charge at distances up to 33 feet (via Bluetooth 2.1 EDR).
The Kanex mLinq requires an Intel Mac running at least OS X 10.4.11, or a Windows computer running Windows XP or later. Both it and the Kanex AirBlue are available for pre-order now from the company's website.
