Remember the first time you saw an AirPort wireless router at an Apple store? Or perhaps at a CompUSA? Chances are, you haven’t been that fired up about a router in a while, at least not visually. In a move that was bound to happen, a new brand called Plume is releasing a new networking product that has a slim design and, you guessed it, comes in Silver, Space Gray and Gold colorings.
Design aside, Plume wants you to place these geometric extenders all over your home in favor of one central router. The specs promise a self-monitoring network that will constantly work to improve itself. And at $39 per unit during the pre-order period, the price isn’t too shabby either…
Instead of using an AirPort Extreme that costs around $200, Plume wants you to use four or five of its devices across your home. The goal here is to create a stronger network overall by blanketing areas that may be prone to dropouts. This is obviously not a new idea. There are plenty of Wi-Fi extenders that can do the same job as an add-on to your existing network. That said, sticking within one brand and product line may bring improved performance over the competition.
So how does it adjust? Instead of using beam-forming technology like many top-of-the-line routers, Plume instead focuses energy on select extenders throughout your home. If no one is using Wi-Fi in one room, it will focus its energy on areas with heavier usage. Again, this is not a new phenomenon but rather an old feature being repurposed in a new way.
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Every pod has an ethernet port built-in, which is helpful if you prefer a hardwired connection in some rooms of your home. The mesh system is constantly updated thanks to Plume’s cloud computing servers. Each router is 802.11ac compatible but speeds will of course vary by location and the materials used in the construction of your home.
Plume is currently available for pre-order direct from the manufacturer. You’ll be able to lock-in a special price of $39 per unit (Reg. $49) but unfortunately there is a six pod minimum. In the meantime, if you’re looking for a way to upgrade your system and hit those frustrating dead zones, we recommend this best-selling extender as a solid add-on.
More New Toy of the Day:
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Source: Plume
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