SMC Networks launches new Wireless Outdoor Bridges

29th May 2007 - SMC Networks, leading provider of LAN hardware and broadband connectivity devices, today announced its new EliteConnect™ 802.11 a/g Outdoor Enterprise Access Point/Bridges. Designed specifically for SMBs planning to install wireless building-to-building links, the SMC2890W-AG and SMC2891W-AG are cost-effective solutions that eliminate the need for expensive cabling and costly leased lines. Completely weatherproof and safe for outdoor use the bridges can be installed in a wide variety of different indoor and outdoor environments. Incorporating a 2.4GHz/5GHz dual radio system,

the bridges are designed to link two or more local LAN’s over one band (Bridge mode) and simultaneously provide wireless client access over the other band (Access Point mode). Dual radio archi-tecture allows different bridging options using either the 802.11a (5GHz) or 802.11b/g (2.4GHz) wireless band. As an alternative both frequency bands can also be used for access point mode.

The new EliteConnect™ Outdoor Bridges come in two models: the SMC2890W-AG and SMC2891W-AG with integrated 5GHz antenna. The SMC2890W-AG supports up to 16 WDS links to connect remote LAN’s and branch offices whereas the SMC2891W-AG supports only 1 WDS link; primarily used to connect to the SMC2890W-AG in bridge mode. To counter security concerns which are a key consideration for SMB customers, the bridges provide enterprise level authentication and encryption including Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2) and RADIUS authentication using 802.1x. Deployment is made easy with support for Power over Ethernet (802.3af), built-in lightning protection, optional high gain antennas, and a full range of products to extend wireless coverage. The SMC2890W-AG/SMC2891W-AG are priced at €749.99 (MSRP) and are part of the EliteConnect™ family of enterprise-class wireless LAN solutions.