TRENDnet 300Mbps Wireless N Gigabit Router TEW-633GR (Piano Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Final verdict on the Trendnet TEW-633GR and its routing problem.(See Final Update below for the end results.)

Summary:When I connect my systems (Red Hat, Windows, Palm OS, OS/2 (Warp/Server)), PS2, etc to the Internet using this router, I'm unable to reach various Internet addresses.Doing a trace route finds the packets go so far and then get "Destination Network Unreachable."

NOTE:This also occurs from the router's administration page's ping page not just from various machines on the network.

The problem does NOT occur under two circumstances.

1) I connect a system directly to my Comcast cable modem.
2) I use my Linksys router (WRT54G or WRT600N).

Hook the Trendnet back up and the problem returns 100% of the time.

After calling Trendnet support, I began to become hopeful in finding a solution.Level one sent me almost immediately to level two, who called me back and worked through various possibilities.Follow-up phone calls from level two, though, required I contact them.

During the last session level two agreed something "interesting" was going on for two reasons.

1)They were unable to ping to these sites from their location using DSL.Their trace routes failed at the same point.
2) They connected into my router and verified mine failed by using the ping feature under Administration.

NOTE:I'm avoiding using the term web site, as I use various Internet protocols into these sites (e.g. sftp, ssh, smtp, dns, imcp, and yes http).

They gave me a choice to send them the unit or send it back to Amazon.com for a refund.I decided this unit is still my first choice as a replacement for the Linksys.Getting a RMA number, I send the unit back.This is where we are today.Trendnet has the unit (USPS tracking) but has yet to contact me.

The TEW-633GR works great otherwise and the gigabit wired interfaces do improve system to system speed for various protocols (e.g. ftp, sftp, large http requests, etc.).

Can I recommend it to you?If the Internet addresses you try to reach doesn't hit this routing issue the answer is yes!But I'm not sure what Internet addresses have problems with this router.You might go a lifetime without hitting this problem or one day you need to connect to your new employer's site and can't.Fortunately, Trendnet does seem interested in solving this issue.

I'll update this review as I get more information.The verdict is still out and hopefully this router will get a five by five rating and be with me for a very long time.

Final update:

According to the router's developers the problem is with the ATHEROS chip set they use.

I'm using Comcast and tried both a RCA and Motorola modem.We also tried DOCSIS 1.1 and 2.0 before I ended up returning the router.Trendnet said they are ** NOT ** going to fix the issue for a couple of reasons.

(1) They don't have cable access at their headquarters.They have T-1 and DSL.
(2) They don't believe cable users are a large percentage of their business.
(3) We agreed not all cable users will see this issue.Yet, those who do will be out of luck, period.

I'm now using a Linksys WRT600N with a Broadband chipset with no routing issues.I returned the Trendnet TEW-633GR to Amazon.com because of this design / software defect (per Trendnet assessment).

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Product Description:
The 300Mbps Wireless N Gigabit Gaming Router incorporates the latest wireless and Gigabit networking technology to increase speed, range, security and reliability. The router provides unsurpassed gaming and network experience and performance. Advanced antenna and 802.11 N technology increases wireless data range and coverage. Enjoy lag-free gaming and file transfers on your wired Gigabit computers via the built-in Gigabit switch.This router features a powerful firewall and advanced wireless encryption for secured transmissions. Quality of Service (QoS) prioritization provides a seamless gaming and multimedia streaming experience. Increased speed, throughput and range make it the perfect solution to fulfill your gaming needs.

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Netgear WNHDEB111-100NAS Wireless N Access Point Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this kit to send HD video from my computer to my TV media device. It has adequate bandwidth and worked out of the box, but I do not get a strong signal from the main floor to the basement of my house, a distance of about 25 feet. There are a couple of walls as well as the floor, and the basement ceiling has metal duct work and pipes above the plasterboard, so I am probably lucky to penetrate all that. I used a laptop to indicate wireless signal strength, and spent a couple of hours orienting each device for the best signal. Now I get a level that varies from 50% to 70%, and that works reliably for HD at 720p. I have not been able to send 1080i over the link without momentary stops and starts in the audio and video; however the link never breaks connection and never needs resetting. It seems to just limit the bandwidth as the signal strength goes lower.

I bought a third WNHDE 111 to connect to another computer, and than link has never been interrupted since I installed it over a month ago. It has always worked well. I had previously used a Linksys G router that was interrupted once or twice a day, and it had to be reinstated manually using the "repair" function in the Windows wireless software. It was my wife's computer in the kitchen, so I had to fix it!

I still have the wireless G system up, and it works well around the house with a third computer, a laptop, but it never gave a reliable signal for my wife's computer in the kitchen; and it would not carry the HD video for the TV. I also use that old G router to connect the ethernet from my main computer to the WNHDE 111.

I recommend this device if you don't have too many walls and floors to penetrate. I am a retired electronics engineer, and I assure everyone that the higher the frequency, the poorer the penetration, but the more bandwidth and the more freedom from interference.

Update:After 7 months, I have better results. With some tweaking of the settings (set the Channel Width to 20 MHz, turn off the "Broadcast SSID", and lower Beacon Period to 50 msec) I can now stream 25 Mbps HD video through all the walls. I think the main problem was that the auto 20/40 Channel Width was trying to run at 40 and was not successful, sometimes switching between 20 and 40. When I reduced the channel width, I got an increase in signal strength. I can now stream 1080i HD for hours without any problem.

Jim

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Product Description:
The NETGEAR HD/Gaming 5 GHz Wireless-N Networking Kit WNHDEB111 offers:

Use of the 5 GHz frequency for less interference.
Works with: XBox, Playstation, Wii, TiVo HD, Slingbox, digital set-top boxes, NETGEAR's Digital Entertainer HD, Apple TV, network attached storage, and more!
Automatic Quality of Service (QoS) that prioritizes voice, video, and gaming traffic.

The NETGEAR HD/Gaming 5 GHz Wireless-N Networking Kit WNHDEB111 enables super-fast file transfers at the highest possible Wireless-N speeds, making it an ideal solution for network gaming and streaming HD videos. By utilizing patented metamaterial antenna technology, the WNHDEB111 offers a speed and range far surpassing the old Wireless-G standard.


By operating on the less crowded 5 GHz frequency, wireless connections are stronger and faster. View larger. Easy Setup
The WNHDEB111 kit includes two access point/bridges, preconfigured to securely connect to each other. Setting it up is as easy as connecting one access point to your router/gateway, and connecting the other to your networkable device, such as your XBox, Playstation, Wii, TiVo HD, Slingbox, digital set-top boxes, NETGEAR's Digital Entertainer HD, Apple TV, network attached storage, and more. Setup is easily and securely done with a simple "Push 'N Connect" feature using Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS), which eliminates the need to remember or input security password keys. It automatically configures to access point or bridge mode depending on the type of Ethernet enabled device it connects to.
To add another HD Bridge to your HD network, the NETGEAR 5 GHz Wireless-N HD Access Point/Bridge is available.
Minimal Interference = Outstanding Performance
Most wireless devices today, such as Wi-Fi devices, cordless phones, Bluetooth devices, microwaves, and baby monitors, operate on the 2.4 GHz frequency, thus creating a lot of traffic and interference. The WNHDEB111, however, operates on the 5 GHz band which has up to 23 free channels and avoids the interference that most other devices must contend with.
The WNHDEB111 complies with the latest Wireless-N draft specification for the fastest possible Wireless-N speeds. Automatic Quality of Service (QoS) ensures lag-free gaming and jitter-free HD streaming. It supports wireless "ad-hoc" mode for wireless LAN peer-to-peer gaming and supports multicast point-to-multi-point HD video streaming.
The WNHDEB111 supports WiFi Protected Access (WPA2-PSK, WPA-PSK), and 64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption and is backed by a 1-year warranty.
What's in the Box
Two 5 GHz Wireless-N HD Access Point/Bridges, two stands, two Ethernet cables, setup CD, two power adapters, and warranty/support information card.


The WNHDEB111 avoids interference from 2.4 GHz wireless devices.

Adding Wireless-N to your existing home network is simple. View larger.

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Cisco-Valet Wireless Router Review

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(More customer reviews)Bought the Valet Plus to replace a Linksys G router that occasionally lost signal and that did not offer reliable coverage throughout my (not very big) apartment.Connecting 2 computers went smoothly, and range was definitely improved.Connecting 3rd computer produced error message but seemed to work anyway - attempting to add wireless Canon printer to the network caused another error message and connection failed.Called Cisco Support and was told, basically, that they don't fix printer problems; I insisted that was nonsense, since the product is sold as a "no-brainer" wireless solution and they had to help make it work. During conversation with service rep, the printer suddenly did recognize the Valet Plus (or vice-versa) and started working.Next day, connected iPhone successfully but printing failed again.This time, Customer Support dug a little deeper and checked the settings on the router.Then they told me I had to get a better driver from Canon since the router will only work with printers enabled for WPA/WPA2 security.When I asked why that wasn't listed on the box or anywhere else as a technical requirement for the product, the person had no answer - kept repeating that Cisco used "advanced" technology.After that useless call, I tinkered with the printer LAN settings and tried getting it to accept WPA (rather than WPA2) as security protocol.I was able to print again, but don't have confidence the problem is solved for good.So I have to choose whether to send back the Valet Plus or keep it and hope it works, accepting that I may have difficulty and that Cisco Support is pretty much not supportive at all.Be warned that "plug and play" may not be your experience with this item.

UPDATE: It seems that Cisco takes customer reactions pretty seriously.After posting this review and responding to a Cisco survey in the same vein, I got an email and phone call from a higher-up in the company's support area.He explained that Cisco has to be careful about offering technical advice about other company's products (there are liability issues) but agreed that I should not have been given that unequivocal, unhelpful answer.And the Valet Plus has been working well - haven't had to reset it or fiddle with AirPort settings on computers.Have printed successfully a couple of times, too, so hoping for the best.

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Product Description:

Introducing Valet: The Surprisingly Simple Wireless Router

Valet is the surprisingly simple wireless router that gives you the power to quickly and simply make your home wireless. Valet gets you connected to the Internet in just three steps: plug in the included Easy Setup Key, breeze through a few simple setup screens, and start enjoying the freedom of wireless. The included Easy Setup Key automatically saves your wireless settings, allowing you to quickly link your other wireless devices and manage your home wireless with ease. Remember when going wireless required technical expertise and hours of effort? Not anymore--Valet just works.

The Valet wireless router makes it easy to connect all your Wi-Fi devices.

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StarTech.com ST100SLP Low Profile 10/100 Mbps PCI Ethernet Network Adapter Review

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(More customer reviews)For those of you that have computer systems that do not allow for full size PCI card installation, a low profile network controller is probably what you need.Although most mini, mid and full sized tower PCs offer easy installation of a normal PCI controller, a desktop PC (that lays horizontal on your desk) usually only offers open slots for low profile (sometimes called "half-height") cards.In fact, some desktop PCs offer no expansion slots whatsoever.Since low profile cards are not in very high demand these days, they can be a real challenge to find when shopping for PCI card; such as a video controller, modem, soundcard or network adapter.

My oldest daughter has a little HP desktop PC, and during a recent electrical storm her integrated network controller (built in to the motherboard) got zapped.Her system had one open PCI slot, for which I wanted to install a new network adapter, but I noticed that it was a low profile slot, which meant that I couldn't just run to my local electronics store and buy one.I searched a great deal on-line and found the StarTech ST100SLP Ethernet Network Adapter here on Amazon.com.The cost was very low, which kind of scared me a little, but I researched the product on-line and found that most people stated that it was a decent performer.

The product box contains very few items.Of course it contains the ST100SLP Ethernet adapter, as well as an installation manual and an installation floppy diskette.Yes, you heard me correctly; installation "DISKETTE".Most newer computers don't even come with a diskette drive any more so I was rather surprised to find this form of media, rather than a CD-ROM disk.Of course the drivers can also be downloaded directly from the StarTech.com website, in case anyone needs them.Fortunately Windows XP (which is the OS on my daughter's PC) has built-in drivers for this controller, so there was no need for me to install the drivers from StarTech.I simply snapped the StarTech ST100SLP adapter card into my daughter's PC and powered the PC on.As soon as Windows XP loaded it detected the new controller and installed the necessary drivers for it.It immediately acquired an IP address from my home network router (via DHCP) and I was browsing the Internet within just a couple of minutes.

Overall I am very happy with my purchase of the StarTech low profile Ethernet adapter.It functions as promised by the manufacturer and the installation was as effortless as I could have hoped for.Although this card is only a 10/100 Mbps controller (not capable of Gigabit speeds), it is a real bargain for the money.Amazon had one of the lowest prices I could find for this item, and I received it within 2 business days.I cannot truly attest to how well the ST100SLP will hold up over time but I feel that it is a well built product that will potentially last for several years (provided we don't get hit by another close lightning strike!).Even if I have to replace it in the next year or two, the StarTech ST100SLP is priced low enough to prevent any hard feelings on my part.Keep in mind, the ST100SLP is a budget network adapter, so don't expect any bells and whistles, or to set any data transfer speed records.However, for basic web browsing, e-mail, and mild amounts of home network file transfers, I highly recommend this product for any consumer that requires a low profile Ethernet adapter for their desktop PC.

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Product Description:
Bring all your network resources right to your desktop!StarTech.com's 10/100 Mbits/sec PCI Ethernet Adapter brings high speed Ethernet connections to low profile workstations and workgroup servers.Easy plug and play installation lets you access the Internet, printers, scanners, and all other network devices instantly.The adapter provides full duplex support, allowing data transfer rates of up to 200Mbits/sec with Fast Ethernet Switch connections. Includes drivers for all versions of Windows, many versions of UNIX, Linux, Novell Netware & MAC OS X 10.3. Backed by StarTech.com's lifetime warranty and FREE lifetime tech support.

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Cisco-Linksys WRT54G2 Wireless-G Broadband Router Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This was very easy to set up. It took about 5 minutes total to set up the router and have a wireless connection to my desktop. I have an excellent reception to my desktop that sits about 30 feet away in another room. Also, I have my desktop and laptop (both running vista), xbox 360, and ps3 connected to it wirelessly. the xbox 360 NAT is open and the ps3 NAT is type 2. I'm not sure what that stuff means technically, but in normal person terms it means that I can connect to others with no problems. The back of the router has 4 10/100 ethernet connections on it as well if you want a wired connection.

The design of this router is really excellent. The antennas are built into the router and the dimensions of it are really small and thin! This gives you more flexibility of where the router can be placed.

Streaming recorded TV, music, and pictures from my desktop to xbox (using media center) work well for both being connected wireless with no reduction in picture quality.

With the release of the new Xbox 360 dashboard I am able to stream HD video from Netflix wirelessly through my 360 with this router. The wait time for video to start is short and the picture quality of HD shows like Heroes and 30 Rock is great.

*Update* I have had the 20" 2.66ghz iMac since May 08 and connecting it to my linksys was as simple as selecting the network and typing in my password. The router has been up and running several months now with no resets or connection issues. This is a very stable router that requires little to no maintenance. Now my connections to this router are a laptop with Vista every now and then, Mac with OS X 10.5, ps3, 360, and 2 iPhones. There are no problems when 2 or more devices are using the connection. I am connected to a 6mbps cable connection.

Recently I got the new unibody MacBook and an eyeTV hybrid 2009 model. I use it to record TV (mainly the HD shows sent via QAM from comcast) on my iMac. I want to stream a HD show like The Office from my iMac to my macbook that is connected my my 46" samsung (lnt-4665), but I have found that "g" is not fast enough to stream a show recorded in HD. It is fast enough to stream a show recorded in SD, so I need an "N" router if I want to stream wirelessly.

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Product Description:
The Linksys Wireless-G Broadband Router is really three devices in one box. First, there`s the Wireless Access Point, which lets you connect both screaming fast Wireless-G (802.11g at 54Mbps) and Wireless-B (802.11b at 11Mbps) devices to the network. There`s also a built-in 4-port full-duplex 10/100 Switch to connect your wired-Ethernet devices together. Connect four PCs directly, or attach more hubs and switches to create as big a network as you need. Finally, the Router function ties it all together and lets your whole network share a high-speed cable or DSL Internet connection.

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Cisco-Linksys EZXS55W EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Workgroup Switch Review

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(More customer reviews)This switch does exactly what it's designed for, sharing an Ethernet connnection. Don't expect to be able to configure VLANs, multilayer switching, VLAN trunks, load balancing, etc. This does not have any routing, NAT, or firewall capabilities. You would use this switch when you already have a router between your internal network and the Internet, and you need additional Ethernet ports. This gives you a full duplex Ethernet connection at wired speed, and it delivers! Perfect for the home office/LAN or for technicians needing extra Etherenet ports for their workbench, as this is what I use mine for. Thanks for reading! Hope this helps!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cisco-Linksys EZXS55W EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Workgroup Switch

Product Description:
The EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Switch provides an easy and flexible way to boost your network's performance while migrating to the power of Fast Ethernet. It is designed to meet the needs of small businesses, medium-size businesses, and small-office/home-office networks, and it allows you to run high-end video, multimedia, and other speed-intensive applications at blistering speeds.
With support for half- and full-duplex speeds, the switches allow your network to run at 10 Mbps, 20 Mbps, 100 Mbps, and an incredible 200 Mbps, which provides a cost-effective solution if you ever decide to upgrade your Ethernet network. The EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Switch eliminates data bottlenecks and bandwidth constraints, optimizing network performance while protecting your investment in your existing infrastructure. By migrating your entire network to 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet with the EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Switch, you will have the power to double your network's performance with dedicated, full-duplex bandwidth on every port.

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Cisco-Linksys Wireless-N PCI Adapter with Dual-Band (WMP600N) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this wireless card because my old wireless card that was working fine on windows xp was not compatible. I bought a new dell that had Windows 7 professional 64 bit. Surprisingly, not a lot of wireless cards would say whether they're Windows 7 compatible. I read the box on this unit and said it worked on Vista 64 bit. Once at home, i disregarded the instructions and installed the card first. Upon bootup, Windows 7 had already detected and properly installed the wireless card. It worked seamlessly. Once installed, Windows 7 Update founded a more update driver for the card.

I'll post updates if i notice anything odd about this card. At this moment, I'm getting a Fair Connection with my router. The router is located at the other end of the hallway.

The price is another story...yes it's very over price.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cisco-Linksys Wireless-N PCI Adapter with Dual-Band (WMP600N)

Product Description:
The Ultra RangePlus Wireless-N PCI Adapter with Dual-Band adds wireless connectivity to your desktop computer.Install it into an available slot in your computer, and enjoy great high-speed wireless network access without running wires.The Wireless-N PCI Adapter uses the very latest wireless networking technology, Wireless-N (draft 802.11n).By overlaying the signals of multiple radios for each band, Wireless-N's "Multiple In, Multiple Out" (MIMO) technology is designed to multiply the effective data rate.Unlike ordinary wireless networking technologies that are confused by signal reflections, MIMO actually uses these reflections to increase the range and reduce "dead spots" in the wireless coverage area.The robust signal travels farther, maintaining wireless connections much farther than standard Wireless-G.

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