Buffalo Airstation range
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Buffalo Airstation range

Build a simple wireless network.

Price: £69
Manufacturer: Buffalo



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Verdict

Pros:
Compact; easily installed.

Cons:
Ethernet converter pricey.

Verdict:
A quick way to convert an existing wired infrastructure to a wireless Lan.


Alexander Arias, Personal Computer World 07 Jun 2004

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As wireless Lans continue to grow in popularity, converting wired products and providing complete coverage comes to the fore. This issue is being addressed by Buffalo within its Airstation range.

Looking beyond its punchy name, the WLA-G54C is one of the smallest IEEE 802.11g access points currently available. The single Ethernet port connects to an existing wired network to create a wireless Lan. Alternatively, it supports the Wireless Distribution System (WDS) to act as a repeater, increasing the area covered by an existing Wlan or eliminating a dead spot.

Installation is pretty straightforward, with the software establishing the link to the Access point through a web browser. Security is vital and the first screen provides a wizard to guide you through the options.

This includes WEP, MAC address filtering and, for the more advanced configurations, Wifi Protected Access (WPA). All the normal features can be configured without difficulty in an advanced screen, all the way down to the logging details.

Next, the WLI-TX1-G54 can convert Ethernet-based equipment, such as network printers or games consoles, into wireless clients. In addition the WLI-USB-G54 uses a USB interface for PCs or older laptops, eliminating any need to open your PC case. Each model is accompanied by Buffalo's easily configured client software.

All three products can either be placed on a desktop or wall mounted, and can be fitted with an external aerial to improve reception. Each should happily exist in either a home or small office environment.

Contact: Buffalo 01753 555 015
www.buffalo-technology.com

Specifications:

  • 802.11b/802.11g compliance
  • Infrastructure mode, WDS mode
  • 56 x 120 x 92mm (w x h x d)
  • 2-yr return to base warranty
  • WPA, WEP (64bit/128bit), AES, MAC Address registration


Price details:
RRP: WLA-G54C £69 (£58.99 ex VAT)
WLI-TX1-G54 £81 (£68.99 ex VAT)
WLI-USB-G54 £68 (£57.99 ex VAT)

See also:

Fluke Networks Optiview Series II INAHelp for network managers.  24 Aug 2004
Kcorp KLG_575 GoldFast transfer speed make this a good buy.  14 Jul 2004
Inexq ISW054USoHo wireless router.  23 Jun 2004
AmbiCom WL1100C-CFGain instant access to wireless networks.  21 Jun 2004
BT Wireless Network 1250BTEasy to use and flexible, but it's expensive.  05 May 2004
Kcorp KL-575 Wireless Gateway RouterHave you got more than one PC? Would you like to connect to each other? This gadget could be the solution you are looking for.  29 Apr 2004

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