300m reach adapters

obmar · Site Admin Joined: 14 Apr 2006 Posts: 5697

hField Technologies said its new high-gain Wi-Fi adapter will dramatically decrease deadspots, thereby multiplying the effectiveness of wireless networks. The company said Wi-Fire allows users to connect at significantly higher speeds to a Wi-Fi network from up to 305m, more than three times the range of standard adapters, even in locations where no wireless signal could be detected previously.

Wi-Fire, a fully integrated external Wi-Fi adapter, provides interoperability with any 802.11b/g system. Patents are pending on the device and its proprietary technology. According to Curtis MacDonald, hField's CTO, "Wi-Fire combines a highly sensitive receiver, a highly-tuned and optimized directional antenna, and unique 'fast-response' connection management software to achieve its extraordinary performance levels." Even in situations where an internal adapter cannot maintain connection with a weak Wi-Fi signal, or even detect it, hField said the Wi-Fire connects at speeds suitable for high bandwidth users.

Wi-Fire, measuring 3-by-4 inches with 3/8-inch thickness, is small, easy-to-use, and folds up with its mounting device and USB cable for portability, the company said. Wi-Fire is currently available for Windows XP only. Other versions are being developed.

"Our direct sales efforts target campus and municipal applications," shared Tom DiClemente, hField's CEO and partner of hField investor Gran Sasso Ventures LP. "But, as can be expected, we are also experiencing a high level of interest from home and business users." Blake Kleintop, hField COO, added, "Our beta tests focused mostly on campus Wi-Fi users. We found that the 'seriously mobile user' in particular always experienced much better performance with the Wi-Fire."

Wi-Fire has growing availability through network equipment resellers and campus bookstores, and is available at hfield's website.