D-Link offers portable, gaming routers for spring release
updated 04:38 am EST, Mon January 7, 2013
Gaming router first to use StreamBoost QoS engine
D-Link has unveiled a number of routers at CES, targeted at travelling users and gamers. The SharePort Go II portable router creates a Wi-Fi hotspot from any Ethernet connection, while the AC 1300 Gaming router, AC1750, and AC1200 Dual Band Gigabit Cloud routers are more stationary pieces of networking equipment.
The portable SharePort Go II is a pocket-sized router that includes a 4000mAh rechargable battery that supports up to eight hours of continuous operation. Dual modes allow it to act as a Wi-Fi hotspot for its Ethernet connection and as a repeater for existing Wi-Fi signal, the built-in USB port can be used to attach a storage device or to charge a smartphone, while the SD card slot provides space for extra wireless network storage and media sharing.
The Wireless AC1300 Dual Band Gigabit Gaming Router provides wireless speeds of up to 1300Mbps through a combination of 802.11ac and 802.11n networks. The wireless connection and the four true Gigabit Ethernet ports use the recently-announced StreamBoost QoS engine for bandwidth allocation and traffic management, and is one of the first devices to do so.
Both the Wireless AC1750 and Wireless AC1200 Dual-Band Gigabit Cloud Routers use dual-band technology for their wireless connections, and are capable of Wi-Fi connections up to 1750Mbps and 1200Mbps respectively. Each can be managed through the SharePort mobile app, which also allows users to remotely access storage devices connected to the router's USB port.
The SharePort Go II, Wireless AC1750 and Wireless AC1200 routers will be available in stores by April for $120, $150, and $170 respectively. The Wireless AC1300 Gaming Router should be available this spring, at a to-be-determined price.
