What’s the computer gadget most non-tech folks fear the most?

Wednesday, May 12^th, Netcast 1088  

If you answered “the router”, you are correct. Belkin did some research and found folks often keep old routers because they’re afraid they won’t be able to set up a new one. Well help is here. Belkin made a giant step forward in removing the fear of setting up a new or replacement router with their four new wireless N models. Not only are they designed for easy set up, they have a built in self-healing app that automatically detects and resolves network problems. It even runs routine maintenance scans to give you the clearest wireless channel.  Each cable in the box is labeled and the routers are shipped with network names & passwords. Don’t worry – that info is printed on a tag stuck to the side of the router and there a place to hide under the router if you wish. You can change them when & if you want. Instead of a maze of blinking lights, there’s just one. And if it doesn’t glow green when it’s supposed to, there’s a 24-hour toll free number to help you find out what’s wrong. I use Verizon DSL and they’re known for not making things easy. I had one of the very first of the new routers and I did have to upgrade the software. After I did that, it set up my Verizon modem/router easily. These Share, Play, and Play Max Routers have a Print Genie app that lets you wirelessly print from any computer on the network in your home. Memory Safe automatically backs up your photos and files to an external hard drive (sold separately).  With their Advanced Dual-Band N technology (well they have to call it something catchy) you can use Mover to play your music library on smart devices, like the Xbox or PS3. Another app, the Daily DJ serves up daily-personalized playlists to match your mood. The top model in the line is the Play Max Wireless Router and it retails for under $130. (MSRP) You pick the router you need based on what you want to do with it.  Belkin has models that start at under $50. All of them have pre-configured wireless security which removes another scary part of set-up. MAC and PC compatible. You can check out all the features of the four new routers at the company website. 

http://www.belkin.com/networking/ 

Hear this Netcast: www.twit.tv/dgw1088