No Software, No Cables; Paired Wireless Transceivers Link Game Console to Broadband
Connection

Logitech today eliminated a major nuisance for online gamers: connecting a gaming
system to an inconveniently located broadband Internet connection. The new Logitech(R)
Play Link(TM) wireless extension offers one-step wireless. Consumers just plug
it in and play online games on their PlayStation(R)2, Xbox(R) and PC game networks,
even if their Internet connection is on the other side of the house.

With the Logitech Play Link wireless extension, there is no need for expensive,
complicated wireless networks, no software to configure, and no drilling through
walls or running cables under carpets. Instead, the Play Link wireless extension
consists of two small wireless transceiver boxes. One plugs into the Ethernet
port of an Internet router or modem and the other plugs into a game console,
PC or other device — instantly providing a wireless broadband connection.

In a recent study, Framingham, Mass-based research firm IDC reported that 68.3
percent of console game owners are aware of online gaming services, up from
46.3 percent in 2003. However, only 15.4 percent of PlayStation 2 and 13.7 percent
of Xbox owners have played online games.

“We hear it all the time,” said Jef Holove, director of product marketing
for Logitech’s Interactive Entertainment Business Unit. “Gamers have their
PlayStation 2 or Xbox in their living room and their broadband connection in a
home office. The Logitech Play Link wireless extension provides an easy, affordable
way for those who want to game online but haven’t because of the complexity of
home networking. The setup is fast and truly plug-and-play — you plug it in,
and it just works.”

Designed as an affordable and simple enabler of online gaming, the Logitech
Play Link wireless extension features 900 MHz RF technology, which achieves
a range of up to 100 feet, and delivers encrypted communication so that the
one-to-one connection is secure. The product is able to work without software
or drivers because the two devices are paired during manufacturing so that they
only work with each other. The Play Link transceivers transmit data, with no
latency, at a rate of up to 1.5 Mbps. The product is specifically designed to
ensure a persistent connection, so gamers don’t get dropped from their game.

The Logitech Play Link wireless extension can provide one-step wireless access
for any Ethernet-enabled device, such as a laptop, a digital video recorder,
a satellite receiver, or a network printer. With no software or drivers required,
it’s easy to move a Logitech Play Link transceiver from device to device, allowing
people to surf the Internet on a laptop one minute and then easily switch over
to an online game the next.

The Logitech Play Link wireless extension will be available on store shelves
in the U.S. and Canada, and online at http://www.logitech.com,
later this month for a suggested retail price of $99.99.

Filed under: XBS

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!