USB Wireless

Lucent has announced the availability of a USB wireless device for the ORiNOCO Internet access and wireless networking system. By using the Wireless USB Client, users can wirelessly network a computer by plugging the device into a spare USB connector and installing the software. The system is Wi-Fi certified and enables users to enjoy secure, high-speed (11 Mbps) wireless Internet access and wireless networking anywhere.

The USB device will enable communication between any USB-equipped PC and the entire range of ORiNOCO access points. With a range of up to 1,200 feet and up to 11 Mbps bandwidth, the USB client is also compatible with other wireless networking devices from companies such as Acer, Apple, Dell, Enterasys (formerly known as Cabletron), Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Melco/Buffalo, Sony, Toshiba and others.

It is powered through the computer's USB connector and d'es not need a separate power supply. The Client provides indicator lights for correct operation and data traffic, and is available for Windows 98, Windows ME and Windows 2000 users. It is available in two variants, Silver 64-bit key WEP encryption and Gold 128-bit key encryption. Lucent Technologies, Murray Hill, NJ, (800) 928-3526, www.lucent.com/orinoco.

This article originally appeared in the 04/01/2001 issue of THE Journal.

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