Trendnet shows 802.11ac gear, smaller Powerline

Trendnet on Friday made two key pre-CES unveilings, including two wireless products based on the new 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard. Trendnet's first devices include the TEW-811DR AC router and Dual Band Media Bridge, the TEW-800MB. At their best, they can reach 802.11ac's peak transfer speed of 1.3Gbps, roughly three times faster than 802.11n.

Despite name differences, both are dual-band and will support the company's current wireless N adapter at its slower speeds. Other Trendnet features are intact, including a gigabit Ethernet connection. The two routers are due to arrive in the second half of the year, each priced at $200.

At the same time, Trendnet revealed a much miniaturized 500Mbps Powerline AV networking adapter. The TPL-406E is the smallest in the industry, the company claims, and will also consume up to 70 percent less energy in standby mode thanks to a power-saving feature.

It uses home electrical wiring to send data at up to 500Mbps. At least two units are needed to make a network, however. When they ship in April, each will cost $40.

TEW-811DR

TEW-800MB

TPL-406E

By Electronista Staff