RCA/MSN TV 2 Internet and Media Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am a computer person, but with some trepidation after reading some of the negative reviews on Amazon, I installed two of the MSNTV2 units over the holidays - one to upgrade my parent's original WebTV and the second for my Mother-in-Law whose visoin is poor. The former is using dial up while the latter is hooked to a cable broadband system. It is important to note that my parents did not use some of the features other reviewers miss from the earlier WebTV products, so for them all their needs are covered. Both `parents' primarily use these systems for email and basic web use, including shopping, music channels and photos. With that background, here are my notes about the units:
Pros:
1.Easy to hook up and easy to use. Nothing fancy or difficult whether upgrading an existing account or establishing a new one. Both units were quickly operational without any glitches (well, see one con below regarding USB).
2.Resolution is far better vs. my parents original WebTV unit, where blue type on a dark blue background on the email screens made reading very difficult. The new higher contrast `dark letters on white background' are much better and the pixel definition is also improved. The resolution improvement is easy to see on some web sites where my parents couldn't read anything before but now the text is legible. Again, this is no match for my laptop, but it is good enough for general use.
3.Related to the above, the new text size +/- buttons make it easy to change the text size on a web page for improved readability. Also, the `resize' button can help with those pages with cramped type. Great features for those with vision problems and they work easily.
4.While the keyboard lacks any TV controls for volume, etc. the keyboard does include ample `one-touch' keys for all the basic email, web and media needs. And neither of the two units had any glitches with the keyboard communications causing dropped letters, etc. that others have cited. One of the units has the keyboard within a foot of the main box, but the other is separated by about 12 feet and worked perfectly unless the signal was blocked by an object.
5.The greater range of file formats that can be viewed is a significant improvement vs. the prior WebTV (not Plus). Electronic greeting cards that were previously unreadable worked perfectly and the ubiquitous pdf files on the web are a great addition. (Almost humorous is the fact that Microsoft's MSNTV2 cannot read Microsoft's .ppt or .pps PowerPoint files! Hmmm . . . I would have really thought a simple PowerPoint reader like those you can download for PCs would have been built in. After all, it would seem in Mr. Softy's best interest to insure that all of their core software could at least be viewed on their own WebTV product, right?)
6.On dial-up the speed is perhaps slightly quicker, but only marginally. In fact, at times it seems to be slower, but that is usually when viewing pages or files that were previously not viewable on the original WebTV. These files, like animated cards and pdf files are often significantly larger than others so they seem slow. On broadband things pop up quite quickly in general, with occasional times when MSN seems to be thinking about it before it sends the page. But once it does, the page pops up quickly. This really shows up when displaying a large .pdf file vs. the dial-up installation.
7.While not perfect, Microsoft's media player does a good job of displaying most videos and playing many, but not all, radio / music stations. Having the media player as a `separate' application is nice since a music station can be playing in the background while surfing the web or reading emails.
Cons:
1.There are still limitations on file sizes and file types (like the PowerPoint noted above) so this is not a solution for someone who wants a `simple computer'. This is a web reader, email client and limited media player that is far easier for non-computer people to use. Not for me personally, but a perfect fit for my parents and mother-in-law.
2.Nice of Microsoft to take the meaning of `Universal' out of their implementation of Universal Serial Bus (USB)!! Okay, so this is not a PC so maybe it is too much to expect it to handle all USB devices, but when I bought a recommended model of USB 802.11 b/g adapter the MSN's site specifically states as being compatible, I would have thought it was! I intentionally avoided any of their recommendations that stated `only version x.x' or some other disclaimer, buying a quality DLink G122 adapter. Plugged it into the MSNTV2 and, voila - a big box stating that the device was not compatible with MSNTV2. I checked it in my laptop just to be sure it was working and, of course, it was. But back into the MSNTV2 and the same `incompatible' box popped up. Fortunately, I could move the cable modem and wireless router to where the MSNTV2 box was so I hardwired it via Ethernet and that worked as it should have. So even if you follow MSN's recommendations on USB adapters or printers, you have the potential that it will not work due to some change in software made by the adapter manufacturer. Be sure you have return privileges on your USB purchases! (FYI, I did try my wireless travel mouse and that worked nicely, including the scroll function that another reviewer said didn't work. Perhaps because mine is a Microsoft mouse?a)
3.No memory expansion? It seems that it would have been relatively easy to allow a plug in of extra memory to allow larger pages to load. I had only one site, featuring lots of photos, not load, but it caused the unit to freeze and a box come up saying to power the unit off and then on to free up the memory. Minor glitch, but plug in memory is relatively cheap - why not allow it.
4.While USB card readers will (theoretically!) work so you can transfer photos, etc. it would have been a lot nicer if Microsoft had built in front loading slots for a few basic memory types like CF and SD.
5.Not sure why Microsoft included the separate remote control. Yes, it works some basic web functions, but it is not a real universal remote (didn't work with my mother-in-law's Panasonic TV and has no VCR or DVD functionality) and the web functions that it has are all easily found on the keyboard. I would gladly give up this remote for memory expansion or a built in card reader.
In summary, after reading some of the `horror' stories that other reviewers have posted I feared that indeed the product was poorly built and worse than prior generations. Maybe the bugs are worked out and the quality of manufacture improved, but having bought and installed two units I have to say that, in general, they work as advertised. Yes, the N-USB (Non-Universal Serial Bus) is a potential headache and the occasional file type or page size problem will crop up, but for their intended uses, both units worked quite well right out of the box. Heck, I have had more problems getting a PC to do what I want at times, so the minor glitches here seem minor in comparison, especially for the targeted user group.
So if you do not need a full PC, only want basic email, internet and media playback, and you understand / accept the limitations of the MSNTV2, this could very well be an excellent solution for you. However, if you need much more functionality, and you are willing to put up with the more complex demands of a PC (software upgrades, security and virus issues, etc.) then a PC of some type is your only solution. (Having spent a couple of very intense days helping a friend clean up mass quantities of viruses and spyware from two of their PCs, I now realize that some PC users probably shouldn't be PC users! Or at least they must have some basic understanding about keeping virus and spyware software updated and active!) I can tell you that both my parents and mother-in-law think this generation of MSNTV2 is perfect for them.


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The MSN TV 2 Internet and Media Player lets you access the Web or digital media on a PC right from your TV and the comfort of your living room, bedroom, or kitchen. Whether you're listening to MP3s, viewing movie trailers, or watching video streams of concerts, news, or other programming, MSN TV 2 consolidates all your home entertainment in a space of your choosing.Now you'll be able to create digital photo slideshows and set the mood with music from MP3s or commercial-free Internet radio. Enjoy videos, music, and photos saved on your PC through your TV or home entertainment system. You can also access Web sites, send and receive e-mail, and chat with others. When used with a television offering picture-in-picture, MSN TV 2 even lets you keep a Web browser window open while you watch TV. Imagine being able to look up player stats while watching the big game or hunt for additional perspectives while watching news commentators. The supplied remote control operates the MSN TV 2 set-top box in addition to most televisions.MSN TV 2 is a perfect addition to your home broadband network and works great as a primary e-mail and Internet access point if you're using a dialup account over a regular phone line. The system includes a wireless keyboard and remote control (all batteries included). A subscription to MSN TV is required; see details below. What's in the Box The MSN TV 2 set-top box, a wireless keyboard, a remote control, keyboard and remote batteries, an installation CD-ROM, a 6-foot audio/video interconnect, a user's manual, a quick-start guide, an AC/DC power adapter (for the set-top box), a registration card, and warranty information. Note: Use of this hardware requires a subscription to MSN TV Service or MSN TV Broadband Service. Use is subject to acceptance of the terms of service upon registration. MSN TV dialup services are available as a local call in most areas. In some areas, long-distance toll charges may apply. To check local access, call (866) GO-MSNTV. Windows Media Player features and commercial-free Internet radio requires a broadband home network and a subscription to MSN TV Broadband Service. MSN TV 2 only supports Windows Media-compatible music and video.

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NETGEAR FVS124G ProSafe Gigabit VPN Firewall 25 Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I decided to try purchasing this product even with all the negative reviews (since they were a little old) and needless to say the reviews have made me quite cautious about looking for performance and connectivity problems, but so far, other than initial setup problems it's been working well (only going on two days).
My first impression is that the device is pretty well-built (heavy) however it does get a little hot... I'm using the router with an Adelphia cable modem on WAN port 1 and BellSouth DSL on WAN port 2. The product mostly works right out of the box although you'll have to find where to set the password and change it from the defaults (I don't know why router manufacturers don't make this the first thing you have to do).
I attached my cable modem and was able to successfully connect through the router. I then attached my DSL modem and changed the internal WAN MODE setting to "Load Balance". Everything seemed to work well except WAN 2 kept being reported as DOWN... very frustrated and nervous about the reviews that I had seen I decided to call Netgear tech support... after registering the product I was quickly connected to a technician who walked me through the proper setup... turns out that I needed to change the default IP address of the router as it was conflicting with the DSL modem... I also ended up changing the IP address on my wireless router and disabling DHCP (on the wireless)...
So far so good...
I downloaded a torrent of CentOS4DVD to test the performance and sure enough I was able to realize the combined download bandwidth of both broadband connections... I also checked my remote web server access logs and saw requests for a page coming from both my Adelphia and BellSouth IP addresses... so I know load balancing is working properly... I attempted some SSL transactions and they seemed to work ok... I'm still not 100% certain how things will work with sites that use IP address verification to control sessions... so I'll have to wait and see.
I don't use VoIP and don't run a server from home but so far I can say that I am quite pleased... I hope this review helps somebody else.
******************* FOLLOW-UP TWO MONTHS LATER *****************
I've had enough time with the Netgear FVS124G to discover its warts... simply put... protocol binding does NOT work, at least when you're trying to bind a service to a specific wan port and destination network... so far I've been elevated to Level 3 support with no resolution... I'm sure that "level 3" just means the guy in the next cubicle but it sounds impressive... FYI, for anyone in a similar situation I'm using firmware 1.33... I would still recommend the Netgear as long as your routing needs don't get *too* sophisticated... and if the Netgear ironed out the bugs in its firmware it would be perfect... the only other device I've found that performs the same features and more is the PepLink Balance 200... but it costs four times as much!

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The NETGEAR FVS124G ProSafe Gigabit VPN Firewall offers enterprise-level protection, performance, and reliability to remote workers. With dual 10/100 WAN ports, you can connect a second network connection thereby providing failover protection.
Fast Gigabit Performance The FVS124G has four auto-sensing 10/100/1000 Mbps LAN ports for gigabit speeds, allowing for speedy connections between servers and workstations, and also for use as a backbone for switches.
High-class Security For businesses that require more than just a simple NAT router, the FVS124G offers significantly more protection. It provides: a Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) firewall to prevent Denial of Service attacks, an Intrusion Detection System (IDS), the ability to block Java/URL/ActiveX based on extension, and FTP/SMTP/RPC program filtering.
The FVS124G is VPNC tested and features 25 dedicated VPN tunnels for secure data transmission over the Internet. IPSec-based 256-bit (AES) encryption is also supported.
Easy Setup NETGEAR's Smart Wizard makes installation a breeze. A VPN wizard lets you create rules that allow up to 253 remote PCs or sites to connect from locations with IP addresses that are not known in advance. Additionally, SNMP support provides complete remote administration and monitoring. DHCP and PPPoE support makes widespread deployment simple.
The NETGEAR FVS124G ProSafe Gigabit VPN Firewall is backed by a 3-year warranty.
What's in the Box FVS124G ProSafe Gigabit VPN Firewall, ethernet cable, installation guide, resource CD, warranty/support information card.

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Netgear WAG302NA WAG302.PROSAFE 11ABG Dual Band Wireless Access Point Review

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(More customer reviews)I bought three of these and have been struggling with them for 6 weeks. One day it all works great, the next there are many dropped connections ot you can authenticate with only one device at a time: I'm using all static IP's with WPA/PSK TKIP. Even when authenticated and connected with good signal cannot reach the LAN, cannot ping anything.
The tech support is dysfunctional: on hold repeatedly, never getting a resolution. One "escalated" case took 4 weeks to get an answer and the answer is that the WAG302 is NOT COMPATIBLE WITH WINDOWS CE 5.0 WIRELESS DEVICES! Well, be advised, it works no better with laptops and desktops.
If you have a lot of time on your hands, then try it out. I mean a lot of time.

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PROSAFE DUAL BAND WLS AP 802.11A/B/G WAG302

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D-Link DIR-130 NetDefend VPN Firewall8-Port 10/100Mbps Switch Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The DIR-130 was selected due to its support for incoming PPTP VPN tunnels that are compatible with the Microsoft VPN connector included with Windows. The upgrade to firmware version 1.10 has apparently resolved reliability issues reported by another reviewer. The DIR-130 allows me to access my home system securely and consistently. Over several weeks of regular use, it has performed reliably. Configuration is easy using the well-structured menus. The firmware upgrade changed the VPN user account management from the screens shown in the manual and permits many more users to be assigned in groups with individual passwords using different VPN settings (PPTP or L2TP/IPsec).
Performance of unencrypted data over my Bellsouth 3MBps ADSL connection seemed slightly faster than with the prior router, the Netgear WGR614. Due to the VPN encryption, the connection speed is however noticeably slower than non-VPN. Reducing the encryption level to 40 bits improves the speed compared with 128 bits.
There is a firmware bug (v1.10) that only occurs during remote management or managment over a VPN connection. Clicking on the "save" button, executes a script that tries to display the confirmation web page, but the address is invalid, resulting in an error screen, even though the action was successfully performed. Just log in again to resume remote management. This bug in firmware v1.10 has been reported to D-Link, without response. The bug does not occur when accessing the router over the LAN using a non-VPN connection.


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D-Link DIR-130 NetDefend VPN Firewall8-Port 10/100Mbps Switch

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Linksys Wireless Internet Camera with Audio Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased two of these cameras. They are new to the Linksys product line. They are not inexpensive. However, compared to all the other wireless-g cameras available, these are good and reasonably priced. (Note, I had tried another brand of wireless-g camera, and had written a review on it. I returned those cameras.)
The cameras support WEP or WPA security (I am using WEP), are good in low light conditions, are sensitive to infrared illumination, can be accessed from anywhere I have access to the internet, and have remotely controlled Pan and Tilt. I have had them for 1 month, and I like them. Kudos to Linksys.
A word of CAUTION, I have not seen any wireless network camera that is "plug and play." And if you have a wireless router, firewall, wireless security, cable modem, etc., it gets more complicated. That is just the way it is right now. For this price range, no manufacturer can afford to give you tech support, other than for the basics. And for networking, there are very little "basics."
The manual is decent (79 pages.), but could use more information. However, you still will need some knowledge about setting up network adapters, especially if you are using a different brand router (which I am.) With some knowledge, it's going to take at least an hour per camera (probably several hours for the first camera, if this is your first time setting up an internet camera.) With little or no knowledge, you may not want to bother. I can be very frustrating.Pros:
-- Can access the camera wirelessly (within your network) and through the Internet (within or outside of your network.) I am using DynDNS for access from outside my network. Your browser must support ActiveX (currently, works best with Internet Explorer.) Linksys also provides monitoring software for access outside of your browser (but it doesn't work.)
-- Moving the camera to other locations (within your wireless network) is easy. Just unplug, move, and replug into AC outlet.
-- Has nice features regarding IP assignment, email alerts, motion detection, etc. I have tried all these features and they work well. Motion detection requires some tweaking so that it isn't constantly picking up motion. When away, I get an email with a 5 second video clip whenever motion is detected. (This can be as little as 2 seconds, or no video clip at all, just an email alert.)
-- Good image quality. Quality depends upon compression settings (the camera is transmitting images digitally, adjustment may be necessary to minimize the volume of data being transmitted [bandwidth].) Webcams don't have the same bandwidth constraints, since they plug right into your computer, so there quality tends to be better. The camera has adjustable framerate and quality settings.
-- Fair color quality. I don't believe this is a serious issue for security. Black and white is still predominantly used for security. Part of the lack of color quality (or accuracy of color) is the camera's infrared sensitivity, which is a plus. However, if security is a serious issue, there might be better choices for surveillance.
-- Decent low light sensitivity. The camera's infrared sensitivity makes the camera more sensitive in lower light incandescently lit areas. If you can read under the existing light, you will get a very good picture. (For viewing under dark conditions, you would need to supply your own infrared lights.)
-- Motion detection with email alerts. Works well when set up properly.
-- Good fixed focus. Camera focus can not be changed, however, the images appear clear under most conditions. (The ability to manually focus on a remote camera is not a feature that is easy to do. There is no viewfinder on the camera! Remotely focusing cameras are expensive.)
-- Multiple indicator lights and LCD address display on the camera, in case you forget what IP address your camera is assigned to. These lights and display can be turned off remotely.
-- Remote pan and tilt. Works well. The motor is a little noisy. But for the price...
-- Can use a Dynamic DNS (DDNS) service other than SoloLink. I am using DynDNS and I have DDNS and a cable modem and a non-Linksys wireless router. Again, you need to know a little about networking. Cons:
-- Setup is complex. This is probably an issue with any wireless camera. Setting up access, in particular from outside your network, is a complex process. Going from wired to wireless is particularly complex. The initial setup does not include all the options available when you access the camera remotely. So, you can't do a complete job during the initial wired setup (particularly with setting fixed IP addresses and port assignments.)
-- Camera is not small (like webcams.) With the motors and dome, I understand this is the best functionality you probably will get for the size and price. Smaller cameras require smaller motors, etc. and that would cost more.
-- The stand the camera sits on is flimsy; the camera just sits on it. I am surprised there is no snap/lock (or whatever) to hold the camera to the stand. It would not have cost any more. However, there are mounting holes and a tripod socket on the camera.
-- Monitoring software, for access without using your browser, has problems. I was only able to get it to work on one of three computers I installed it on. Linksys has not been helpful. This software is required for viewing multiple images at once and provides a recording capability. One can view multiple images with your browser, but you need to open up more than one window on your browser and then try to arrange them.
-- Accessing the camera wirelessly through the Internet can be a problem if you don't have enough bandwidth (internet speed.) Also, some corporate firewalls won't let you through.
-- Camera antenna is very directional. Requires careful adjustment in some locations in order to access it. The worst position is upright (vertical) as shown in all the pictures!
-- No useful online help or forums. My guess is that camera is still too new.Other:
-- I have had both my cameras plugged in (AC power) for days with no need to reset. When I first installed my cameras, I unplugged them more frequently to reset. (There is a reset hole on the bottom of the camera; but unplugging is easier.) I don't have a conclusion.


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Wireless-g ptz internet camera with audio mpeg-4 640x480.

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D-Link DWL-G510 Wireless PCI Adapter, 802.11g, 54 Mbps Review

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(More customer reviews)Bought this to work with a new D-Link DI-524 wireless router. Works great, with the signal cutting diagonally and through the floor of my 2-story suburban house. I am using an old 6db directional patch antenna (from Hawking Technology; I bought it years ago) and the connection is flawless. Tested in both Windows XP SP2 & Ubuntu Linux (Breezy 5.10 & kernel 2.6).

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The D-Link AirPlus G DWL-G510 PCI Adapter is a wireless PCI adapter featuring the very latest in advanced wireless silicon chip technology to deliver incredibly fast data transfer in the 2.4GHz frequency. The DWL-G510 also works with 802.11b standard wireless devices and when used with other D-Link AirPlus G products delivers throughput speeds capable of handling heavy data payloads. The D-Link AirPlus G DWL-G510 also includes a configuration utility to discover available wireless networks and create and save detailed connectivity profiles for those networks most often accessed.

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Belkin Hi-Speed USB 2.0 7-Port Hub F5U237-APL-S Review

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(More customer reviews)I plugged the thing in and it worked, just like a hub should.
It has it's own power supply that you plug into the wall, so it won't use the USB power that comes from your USB port. This is a better design in some cases, because it means it will charge your ipod when the computer is off, making it suitable for use even with laptops. However, if you are planning on turning your USB devices off (this is usually only a problem with wireless devices, like wireless keyboards) when you turn your computer off, you'll have to also unplug the power cable to shut down everything plugged into this unit. You can unplug the power cable from the wall (obviously) or from the back of the unit.
The two stand up USB ports are mighty handy for hand held devices. The other 5 plugs go straight into the back. The unit is actually matte black, not grey, like the photo represents.
The instructions state that it is not compatible with adaptec USB controllers. From Windows, click start-control panel [Then on the left hand side, click ] switch to classic view (if it says "switch to category view", you are already in classic view, so continue) then click System-Hardware-Device Manager-USB controllers, to see if "Adaptec" pops up on your screen. If not, you'll probably have the same positive experience I did. If Adaptec pops up, this may not be the device for you.

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The latest innovation from USB leader Belkin lets you connect up to seven devices quickly and easily, to your Macintosh computer. Designed to work seamlessly with all your USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 devices, our Hi-Speed USB 2.0 7-Port Hub features two, top-loading downstream USB ports to give you fast access for temporary device connections such as USB thumb drives, media readers, iPod shuffle, and for USB lights, fans, and other accessories. Monitoring your device activity is simpler than ever with LEDs for master power status and all port activity. The stackable, slim-line design saves valuable desk space.

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802.11g Wireless WIFI PCI Adapter Card For Desktop New Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The item arrived in just 4 days with standard shipping. The instructions were simple but thorough and made installation of the software and card easy. My wife's desktop computer was moved to another location far from the WiFi router and works perfectly with full signal levels. I highly recommend this product.

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Package includes: 1 x 54Mbps 802.11g PCI Wireless LAN Card1 x Detachable antenna1 x Software driver1 x User Guide This 54Mbps network adapter allows you to add high-speed wireless data transfer to your PC. Compliant with IEEE 802.11g, this PCI wireless LAN card can handle heavy data payloads. In addition, it offers multi security protection for your communication and information, including 64/128-bit WEP, TKIP, and WPA. The detachable antenna is a nice extra, which helps you get the optimum signal strength.

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NAS Adapter Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This is a rather quirky product. I have to say at first I wanted my money back and was so pissed and frustrated at the damn thing (this is why I say it is not for the feint of heart). Eventually after a lot of playing around with the NAS settings, changing settings on my router, and general tinkering around with it I got it to work the way I'd like. The NAS is a very good yet very simple device so it does take a bit of technical knowledge/tools to get this thing working right. The setup is a simple plug-in to a USB port from your external hard drive and a jack into one of your router's ethernet ports. Of course it also needs power but other than that make sure your external hard drive is on and you're in business.
The main features of the NAS include:
1) Media Server that will sync pictures, music, and videos to things like X-Box's, PS3's, Media center PC's, etc.
2) BitTorrent to download all of those media files or other digital content.
3) SMB general file sharing service.
4) FTP file sharing for web based file access.
5) It is dirt cheap compared to most NAS devices which cost upwards of $150 to $200, which means you have to accept the quirks (yes, quirkiness is a feature).
The system is not a flawless one so like I said earlier you really should know a thing or two about computers to use this. Below are a list of things I did to ensure this device will work as well as any "quirks" I ran into:
1) Use at least a 100Mbps router but preferably a 1Gbps router like a Wireless N (a switch or wired router is fine too). Do not use a hub. They are dumb devices and will usually mess up video quality.
2) Enable QoS (quality of service), it is your friend. This guarantess better streaming quality and a consistant file sharing experience.
3) Do not use more than two features of the device at once e.g. FTP, BitTorrent, and media streaming. Though it can be done, the NAS's processor cannot really handle it thus causing it to fail and therefore freeze. The only way to fix it is to reset it by unplugging it for 15 seconds minimum as the internal reset from the web interface does not work at that point.
4) The media server works great on my PS3 and PC, however it only recognize avi files for video and mp3 files for audio. No other video or audio format is recognized despite the server saying it recognizes mp4 which my PS3 can play.
5) When using BitTorrent if your NAS ever gets shut off, interrupted, etc. the NAS will need to start your download all over again. The files downloaded are intact but anything that did not finish is lost which makes the NAS not ideal for very large or important files. On a side note also be sure to run only one or two BitTorrent files simultaneously as this can also crash the NAS.
6) Do not use a complicated or multifunctional USB device with the NAS. The NAS can only recognize one device at a time so more than one will only confuse it. An example would be a external hard drive dock with card reader or some (notall) multifunction printers.
7) If you ever have a problem streaming music or video, sharing files, or downloading BitTorrent always try different things. Resetting both the NAS and the receiving device is a good idea as well as trying different downloads, reuploading the original files, or recoding the video/music to a different format.
In general it works 85% of the time with no problems (now that I know how it works) and requires very little resetting after I got it fixed. This NAS is cheap, does what it says and does it well so long as you are comfortable witha couple quirks. In the end I had to give it a 4 star rating because I like what it does despite the issues, but I still was teed-off that I initially had so many problems. Hope it helps any prospective or existing owners.

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The Addonics NAS Adapter is a convenient and economical solution for adding any USB storage devices onto your LAN (Local Area Network). Once on the network, the USB storage can be shared by any network user, just like an ordinary NAS device. When use in conjunction with Addonics Storage Towers or Storage Racks, a Multi-Tera bytes storage with various RAID capabilities can be instantly added to the LAN. With the NAS adapter, you can custom build you own NAS appliance with RAID capability and plenty of storage expansion using Addonics family of Drive Enclosures, Port Multipliers, and IO converters. Come built-in with a USB 2.0/1.1 connection and a fast Ethernet 10/100Mbps connection, the NAS adapter supports both SMB (Server Message Block) and the open source Samba network protocols, allowing for cross-platform access of all shared data for most versions of Windows, Mac OS X, and various Linux distributions. For remote users who are not connected over the LAN, the NAS Adapter provides FTP access for up to 8 simultaneous users anywhere in the world with an internet connection. In addition, the NAS adapter can also be used as a print server or as a Bit-Torrent downloading appliance.

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SMC WSKP100 802.11G Wireless Skype Phone Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have seen a lot of mixed reviews on this product, some good and some not so good. I was a bit hesitant about purchasing this, but after having done so, I have no regrets. It works as advertised. It was easy to set up and works pretty well.
Pros:
1. It gets you away from the PC.
2. The battery life is sufficient for about an hour or perhaps more (they say 3 hours talk time). If you talk more than that, plug in the charging cord when the battery appears to be weak, even while you are on the call. It is very similar to a cell phone in this respect.
3. It's easy to pack around, as is a cell phone.
4. The display is bright and buttons are easy to operate.
5. You can store all of your Skype contacts as well as your Skype OUT contacts for quick access.
Cons:
1. Upon occasion it may be sluggish, perhaps leading to a freeze. Just pull off the battery and snap it back on and you are good to go again. This phenomenon is rare, however.
2. It does not have a web browser for inputting passwords to access wireless networks though a browser. If you are lucky, you can usually find an open spot and it will auto connect to that.
3. No cradle for charging if you buy the product in Japan (Logitec) or in the U.S. (SMC).
4. This unit seems slow to update the status of on-line or off-line users. My PC is very quick, but this unit takes a while sometimes. Upon occasion you must initiate a call to an off-line user for them to appear on-line.
5. No speakerphone function. It comes with a i-pod type of earphone/microphone that includes a mute button, but a speakerphone function would be nice.
Overall no real complaints. However, I do strongly suggest that you buy the Edge Core version of this product from the U.K. as it has a charging cradle with it.
Skype WiFi Phone CRADLE and WIRELESS ROUTER WA4101-Cradle AP.
Also, take some time to update your firmware through your PC before using this product. This will make a difference in performance.


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The new compact Wi-Fi Phone for Skype is perfect for users who need mobility and cost effective voice calls over the Internet. The WSKP100 is intended to help users make Skype calls at home work or campus without the hassle of having to turn on your computer

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Cisco-Linksys WMB54G Wireless-G Music Bridge Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)First off, a little background... I consider myself fairly skilled at using computers.. I have been using them for 25+ years and have installed operating systems, configured routers, set up wireless networks, recovered systems from virus crashes, etc. Reading the below reviews I thought that while installing the music bridge might be a bit tricky, I could handle it.
WOW. I don't know where to begin. This product has the worst documentation I've ever seen, both in the box and online. I spent 10+ hours getting this to work on my system, plus another hour un-doing damage to my system registry after the Music Bridge driver conflicted with another driver in my system and caused a crash.
Having said that, I finally have it up and running and it is operating as promised, though using 100% of my CPU power and thus causing the computer to run very slowly.
Reading the support forum on the linksys site, the people that have the fewest problems installing this equipment are those that don't have routers. Ironically, though Linksys (and Cisco) are router companies, the instructions do not include the special steps that must be taken to re-configure your router so it will connect with the bridge.
Be warned - this is not plug and play and you may very well spend a lot of frustrating time trying to get it to work. Once it is working there are many idiosyncracies (eg having to close and open your music player to get it to play through the bridge) that you would not expect from a well-designed piece of hard/software.
This is a bargain for a reason - I'd suggest you spend a little more and find something better. Good luck!!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cisco-Linksys WMB54G Wireless-G Music Bridge

You're having a party, but you don't have the time it will take to burn a disc of your favorite digital tunes. This is where the Linksys WMB54G Wireless-G Music Bridge comes in. By letting you wirelessly stream audio files from your PC to your stereo or other speaker system, no matter which music service you use, the Wireless-G Music Bridge gives you all the convenience of digital music with the sound of high-performance stereo.With the Wireless-G Music Bridge, you can send whatever music your PC is playing--whether it's from media players, games, Internet radio, orMP3 files--through your home network and to your stereo system. If you're running a wireless (802.11b and 802.11g) network, the Music Bridge will send your music to your stereo with no need for any additional cables. Simply connect the Wireless-G Music Bridge to your entertainment system via the included RCA cable, and you'll be ready to start cranking the tunes. Alternately, you can also use standard 10/100 Ethernet cabling to connect to your network.If you have a 5.1-channel surround sound system, the Wireless-G Music Bridge includes software that creates a virtual 5.1-channel sound in your PC, so that you can take full advantage of your stereo system. The Wireless-G Music Bridge also lets you choose what audio from your PC you want to play over your audio system. For example, you can choose to send music but not email alerts or other PC tones. Or you may want to keep the alert tones streaming. It's entirely up to you.An easy-to-use setup wizard will guide you through the configuration so that you can be up and running in no time. The Wireless-G Music Bridge supports 128-bit WEP encryption to ensure a secure connection and is compatible with wireless 802.11b and 802.11g standards.What's in the Box Wireless-G Music Bridge, Ethernet network cable, stereo RCA cable, power adapter, setup wizard CD-ROM, user guide on CD-ROM, and quick installation guide.

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Belkin F5D7132 Wireless-G Universal Range Extender Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have shared the same experience as the most helpful reviews here: this is a pain to install when you want to configure this Extender to be secure (so strangers can't mooch off of your internet or worse). On the other hand, once you have it set up, it works like a charm.
It's possible, but prepare to burn an hour or three. I would like to add some instructional steps, which are a variation of the very helpful ones already present here on Amazon.
Dummies Guide on How to set up the Extender with security turned on:
1. Completely ignore the instruction sheet that comes with the product. At first, I tried following it stubbornly despite reading these Amazon reviews, and I found that it is an embarrassment. Shame on you Belkin, for giving us so much unnecessary grief.
2. Find a computer in your home to use for this setup. Any computer (that isn't Vista) will do.
3. If this computer happens to be plugged into your router (I'm not talking about not the Extender), unplug it from the router. If this computer happens to have a wireless connection, disable the wireless connection.
4. Plug in the power cord for the Extender into the wall, then connect an ethernet cord (looks like a fat telephone cord) into the back of the Extender, then stick the other end into your computer. The "LAN" light will now light up. Just in case you're concerned, you can ignore the red "search" light that may blink.
5. Install the "Belkin Range Extender Utility" onto this computer. The installation CD will place a program in your Start->Programs menu once you run the install.
6. Go to start->settings->network connections. At this point the only enabled network connection should be Local Area Network (or Local Connection... the name may differ slightly for you). If anything else is enabled, disable it. Right click Local Area Network and select Properties. You're now looking for a new window to pop up that lists a bunch of internet-sounding words like Network or QoS. Look for the item called Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). Double click that.
7. Select manual IP, and enter 192.168.2.100
8. The subnet mask will get filled out automatically. Ignore the gateway. Hit OK, you're finished.
9. Start up the Belkin utility, and hit "refresh" if nothing shows up on the list of detected Extenders. If you're lucky, you will see the Extender show up, and you can now click "Web Management".
10. If no items show up on the Belkin Utility's list, or an item does show up but the "web management" icon is unclickable, then repeat steps 6-9 but enter the IP address 192.168.1.100 instead. Then the Extender should show up.
11. Finally, once you are able to click "Web Management", it will bring you to a webpage that is very much like a Router setup page. The details of what you need to do here can be found in instructional docs on the web elsewhere. The basic idea is that you want to copy pretty much everything over to be identical to what your router settings are. The only exception is possibly the SSID of the Belkin Extender. Depending on your preference, you may want to choose a different name for it just so you can confirm that its really working later on.
12. Save those settings (there's a systems tab at the bottom of the web management panel that allows you to save the settings into a file as a backup).
13. Unplug the Extender from the computer, unplug the power for the Extender, and move the extender to wherever you want. Plug the power back in.
14. Go back to steps 6-9. Remove the manual IP configuration for your Local Area Connection, and revert the panels back to the way they were (which is probably "automatically obtain ip address"). Hit OK. Enable all your network connections if you disabled them in step 6.
15. You should now be able to use your wireless connection to see the Extender under its fresh new SSID. Enjoy.
A version of the above for those that are network-saavy:
1. Disconnect all wireless from your computer, then connect your computer directly to the Extender as if it were a router. Power up the Extender.
2. Manually specify your computer's IP address to be 192.168.2.xxx with subnet mask 255.255.255.0. Yes, I know this step is weird. I'll explain the reason for it in step#4.
3. Install the Belkin Network utility. Its a simple executable. Start it up. It's purpose is to scan for the Extender, provided that your Extender is directly wired to your computer (which we did in step 1).
4. You should see your Extender show up in the utility. If the Extender does not show up or the "Web Management" button is greyed out, this is because your computer and the Belkin Extender are on different subnets. The Belkin Extender is usually shipped from the warehouse hardwired to the IP Address 192.168.2.254. What??? When you plug your computer into the Extender, you need to hardwire your computer to be on the same subnet so the stupid utility will work. Hence, since the factory setting for the Extender is 192.168.2.254, hardwiring your computer's IP to 192.168.2.100 will get the utility to connect to the Extender. However, if for some awful reason your Extender is hardwired to some other IP Address (which is configurable once you get to step#5), you need to change your computer's IP Address to have a value that matches the Extender's new subnet. In other words, if the Extender IP somehow changes to 192.168.5.254, you should change your computer IP address to 192.168.5.100
5. Once you click "Web Management" you can configure the Extender via a browser window. Replicate your router's settings here (they all need to match the original router's, with the exception of the Extender's SSID).
6. Hit Save, then unplug the Extender's power cord and ethernet, and then move it to wherever you would like. Power it up again.
7. Remove your computer's manual IP address. You're now officially done.
*As a note, I had occasional connection problems when I had my Belkin router & extender encryption set to WPA-PSK. I just switched my encryption to WEP and now it is fine. Not everyone has this problem.
Up this review, if you found it useful. I want to see other people spared from the excessive pain the rest of us have already experienced!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Belkin F5D7132 Wireless-G Universal Range Extender

SHARES DATA & PERIPHERALS AS WELL AS A SINGLE INTERNET ACCOUNT AMONG ALL COMPUTERS CONNECTS TO THE NETWORK SWITCH & JOINS WIRELESS-EQUIPPED PCS TO A WIRED ACCESS POINT NETWORK INCREASES THE COVERAGE OF EXISTING WIRELESS NETWORK OF UP TO 1500 FT STANDARD 802.11G54 MB RAMLIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY

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Qwest Actiontec M1000 DSL Modem Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Having been an early adopter of DSL a decade ago, I was not too dismayed when the Cisco 675 modem that came with my Qwest (at the time, USWest) service sputtered and eventually failed. I bought this modem--the Actiontec m1000, branded for Qwest and sold as their "Broadband Starter Kit"--as a likely-sounding replacement. The swap was not without incident, which required a visit from a helpful Qwest technician (after a couple of hours on the phone with tech support), but that wasn't the modem's fault: Turns out Qwest had made upgrades since I had originally subscribed, and the new modem was never going to work until they upgraded my account accordingly. They did so, and since then the modem has worked flawlessly. I'd recommend it, though my sole DSL experience is with USWest/Qwest, so I have no way of knowing how it would handle other providers.

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Fully tested and certified for Qwest DSL, the Actiontec EUADSL23C-08 Modular DSL Router for Qwest DSL is the industry's first modular DSL modem/router that offers a separate wireless networking upgrade via snap-in expansion module. You'll love this award-winning Actiontec EUADSL23C-08 Modular DSL Router for Qwest DSL for its ease of use, simple home network capabilities, and ability to share a broadband connection around the digital home. Purchase the Actiontec EUADSL23C-08 Modular DSL Router for Qwest DSL today.

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Cisco-Linksys BEFSX41 EtherFast Cable/DSL Firewall Router (4-Port 10/100 Switch / VPN Endpoint) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've used two SX41s for over three years on DSL and they are rock solid providing that I don't violate the cardinal rules of operation. The VPN tunnels are easy to set up if you follow the guidelines. First of all you must use a stable firmware. 1.45.7 is the most stable. The latest 1.52.9 is okay, but not as stable. Also you must NEVER set any of the Web Filters to deny or you will have reboots. Generally it is as simple as that.
There are also rules for flashing that must be observed. It doesn't matter whether you use a ver 1 firmware on a ver 2 router or visa versa. Thinking there is a difference is nonsense. What DOES matter is that the router MUST be reset to factory defaults (30 secs on the reset button will do this) before a flash or you risk bricking the router. When flashing with the Web page flashing tool, use IE or you will risk bricking the router. Use the TFTP utility for the SX41 obtainable from Linksys if you wish to use a Mozilla-based browser to flash. After you flash, you should reset once again to factory defaults. There are residual register settings carried over from the previous firmware versions that can cause reboots and other malfunctions.
Even the best flashing procedures can fail, but there are procedures for recovering from a bad flash at DSLReports.com. The recovery rate is probably better than 90% using those techniques. Guidelines for setting tunnels up are also posted there as well as access to the 1.45.7 stable firmware.
Successful operation of the SX41 requires modest intelligence, some networking experience, and following the operating rules. Linksys support hasn't a clue as to what those rules are so don't even bother with them unless you are trying for an RMA for a defective unit. Basically the router has gotten a bad rap from people who don't know how to operate it. Unfortunately they can't learn how to do that from the minimalist manual or from the so-called tech support personnel. Ask for operation help in the Linksys forum on the above mentioned web site if you are struggling with this router.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cisco-Linksys BEFSX41 EtherFast Cable/DSL Firewall Router (4-Port 10/100 Switch / VPN Endpoint)

The Linksys Instant Broadband EtherFast cable/DSL firewall router with 4-port switch/VPN endpoint is the perfect solution for connecting a small group of PCs to a high-speed broadband Internet connection or a 10/100 Ethernet backbone. The router can be configured to limit internal users' Internet access based on URLs and/or time periods (URL filtering and time filtering). For enhanced protection against intruders from the Internet, the router features an advanced SPIfirewall.
Use the cable/DSL firewall router with 4-port switch/VPN endpoint to create IPSec VPN tunnels, so you can securely connect to the corporate server from your home office--or from any location, when you're on the road. The router provides a dedicated port for DMZ hosting and acts as the only externally recognized Internet gateway on your LAN. With the performance and security features of the Linksys cable/DSL firewall router with 4-port switch/VPN endpoint, your network will take advantage of the Internet while keeping its data secure.
This router is compatible with Windows 95, 98, NT, 2000, Me, and XP.
Note: All Linksys routers now include a special edition of Norton Internet Security! Claim your free CD-ROM by calling (800) 814-0180, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific, seven days a week.

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Cisco-Linksys WRT54GP2 Wireless-G Broadband Router for Vonage Internet Phone Service Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As another reviewer noted, the WRT54GP2 has a constant background noise that sounds much like a modem. There is no cure for this, and it is extremely annoying and unacceptable. The noise has nothing to do with the Vonage service; it is some kind of crosstalk generated inside the router. It happens even if nothing but a phone is plugged into the WRT54GP2.
I replaced my WRT54GP2 with a regular WRT54G router and the separate Linksys PAP2 phone interface. The PAP2 provides clean sound with only a faint hint of background noise. I highly recommend this combination instead of the WRT54GP2.
With the separate router and PAP2, the PAP2 normally goes on the LAN side of the router. There is one issue you need to deal with that the WRT54GP2 takes care of automatically: Quality of Service (QoS). You don't want data traffic to interrupt a phone conversation. Go to the router's Applications & Gaming / QoS page and give the highest priority to the PAP2, using either its MAC address or the WRT54G port number it's plugged into. (If the QoS page isn't there, go to www.linksys.com and upgrade the router's firmware to the latest version.)
After setting that up I've been thoroughly pleased with our Vonage service. When some friends of ours saw what it could do (and how it sounded) they immediately signed up for two Vonage lines themselves.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cisco-Linksys WRT54GP2 Wireless-G Broadband Router for Vonage Internet Phone Service

Includes: power adapter & network cable. Linksys WRT54GP2 Wireless-G Broadband Router with VOIP - In addition to wired and wireless networking and Internet sharing, this router features 2 phone lines that can be used with an Vonage VOIP Internet-based telephone service. Each line runs independently, just like a regular 2-line telephone. With Vonage service, you can enjoy low domestic and international rates as your calls are routed through the router and over the Internet. Small Buisness Unlimited Plan (with free fax line) - Unlimited calls to the United States & Canada, plus free long distance, for $49.99 a month Small Buisness Basic Plan (with free fax line) - 1,500 minutes to call anywhere in the United State & Canada FREE Caller ID FREE Call Waiting FREE Voicemail FREE 3-Way Calling FREE Call Return (*69) FREE Call Forwarding Built-in 3-port 10/100 Ethernet Switch Supports 802.11g wireless networking (backwards compatible with 802.11b equipment) Built-in NAT Firewall Up to 256-bit WEP data encryption WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) Wireless MAC Filtering Support QoS (Quality of Service) to ensure best quality voice Port Filtering & DMZ Hosting Web based configuration through a built-in web server Supports auto-provisioning with remote firmware upgrade Supports FSK Caller ID, DTMF Caller ID & FSK VMWI Supports Echo Cancellation and Voice Activity Detection (VAD) Supports Fax Tone Detection Pass-Through

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NETGEAR WPN111NA Wireless Mimo Usb Adapter Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this product to replace an outdated Linksys WUSB54G adapter and to match up with my MIMO router. The product manages to do what its supposed to, sort of.
Pros:
Versatile - Can be used with or without a USB extension cable, so small it is easily portable.
When it was connected, throughput was extremely high.
Decent range, 75% signal strength over ~100ft. and through one wall.
Cons:
Device gets excessively hot.
Inconsistent performance.
Poor device support. When download speeds peaked, at over 22400 (2.8mb/s roughly) the device would cause the system to hang. A check at the Netgear forums revealed that I was not the only member with this issue, so I got the latest device drivers from the website. After installing them, I fired up a few files and for the first ten minutes or so all seemed well. Suddenly the device failed and lost connection to the router. A quick check elsewhere revealed it was only this device that failed, and now I experience near constant disconnects when throughput gets anywhere over 500kb/s. Same issue occurs with multiple systems.
Tech support was unhelpful in resolving my issue.
I would recommend the Linksys WUSB300N over this item, as I have had no problems since switching over, it installs in seconds, and I get a much stronger more consistent connection than what I have ever maintained with the WPN111.

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The NETGEAR WPN111 RangeMax USB 2.0 Adapter makes it simple for you to provide wireless internet access to your computer, whether it is a desktop or notebook, letting you surf the web, check email, and chat online. It is up to ten times faster and has up to ten times more coverage than Wireless-G for a speedy network that won't get bogged down when you you stream music and videos.
Easy to Carry, Easier to Setup About the size of a pack of gum, the WPN111 is easy to throw into your purse or pocket. It supports Windows Vista and is also compatible with Windows XP, 2000, 98SE, and Me. The WG111US features a USB 2.0 connection for wide compatibility and high speeds, and setup is as simple as installing the included software and plugging the device into a USB port. A removable cover keeps the connector protected and clean from knocks, dirt and other potential harm.
Included is a USB cable making it easier to connect the WG111US to a desktop and saving you the hassle of having to reach for the back of the computer each time you want to connect or disconnect the adapter. Additionally, it allows you to place the adapter at an optimal location for the strongest signal. Also included is a cradle that you can fasten to the wall or a desk for a more stable place to keep the adapter once you've found an ideal location.
Fast and Secure The NETGEAR WPN111 supports the 802.11g protocol standard but is able to provide better performance thanks to Smart MIMO technology that incorporates intelligent internal antennas into the router. The router automatically senses interference from devices such as microwaves and cordless phones, and adjusts accordingly. The upshot is speeds up to 108 Mbps with a longer range and a lack of "dead zones" in your home. The adapter is also backwards compatible with 802.11b networks so you don't have to worry about not getting a connection at specific hotspots.
The adapter supports 40/64-bit and 128-bit WEP encryption as well as WPA-PSK for security so you don't have to worry about anyone eavesdropping on your emails or stealing your passwords. The included software makes managing different WEP passwords a breeze as you can set up different profiles for each location you frequent, saving yourself the trouble of having to type in encryption keys each time you connect to a hotspot you've already used.
The NETGEAR WPN111 RangeMax USB 2.0 Adapter is backed by a 1-year warranty.
What's in the Box WPN111 RangeMax USB 2.0 Adapter, USB cable, installation guide, resource CD, cradle and fastener, and warranty/support information card.

Get 73% OFF

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Linksys WRK54G 4-Port Wireless-G Broadband Router Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I hate this device with every fiber of my being. Clearly the worst computer related device ever created since the beginning of computer history and quite possibly the worst consumer product of all time. Yup, it's that bad.
Every morning when I get up, I have to reset this thing, because it hardly ever makes it through the night holding a connection. All sorts of things make it lose connection. Connecting to multiple computers makes it lose connection. Long idle periods make it lose connection. Ever so slight power blinks make it lose connection. And seemingly, presence of oxygen makes it lose connection.
The worst thing you can do is what I did...set this router up with stairs between your primary computer and the router. Or, it could be the best, depending on the level of exercise you require in your life. Last year, I was able to participate in a 10K run, thanks in large part to my involuntary stair training regimen.
Honestly, it got so bad that I installed a Handy Switch Wireless Light Switch; one of those wireless switches that you can use to control lights or whatever that plug into the wall. Now, when it locks up (every 13.6 minutes), I reach under the end table where I installed the switch and reset it. (Thanks, Billy Mays!) This has made living with the WRK54G a little more tolerable, but has added another $15 in operating costs that could have been used to buy a REAL router.
Every so often, I try again to run encryption on the WRK54G. Everything works as well as can be expected for a few months, then the WRK54G suddenly refuses to allow anything to connect, even with the correct passcode. Nothing makes any difference, even trying another computer still results in no connection with the router. At that point the only thing to do is disable encryption entirely or stop using wireless. After about a week, I can once again enable encryption, with the EXACT same password, and magically, all computers hook to it just fine. WHY????
Rarely do I take so adamant a stance in recommending against a product, but Linksys has destroyed my enjoyment of computing, so I will be very honest about this. If you're thinking about the WRK54G, instead, try to find a Carrot Top DVD (such as Chairman of the Board) and put that in your DVD player on Repeat. Turn the volume up all the way and tape your eyes open. You'll come out far cheaper and still not be as aggrivated as you would buying the WRK54G.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Linksys WRK54G 4-Port Wireless-G Broadband Router

The Linksys Wireless-G broadband router is really 3 devices in 1 box. First, there's a wireless access point, which lets you connect a Wireless-G (802.11g) or Wireless-B (802.11b) device to the network. There's also a built-in 4-port full-duplex 10/100 switch to connect your wired-Ethernet devices. Connect 4 PCs directly, or daisy-chain out to 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, files and other resources such as printers and hard disk storage space.

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