Likely designed with small businesses and large homes in mind, Amped Wireless announced two new Wi-Fi devices designed to increase wireless range up to 1.5 miles or approximately 2400 meters away from the main router. According to the company, the extended range devices are perfect for outdoor areas like parks or marinas as well as office parks and provides support for building-to-building applications. The SR600EX wireless-N pro smart repeater utilizes a high-power 600mW amplifier in addition to a high-gain bi-directional antenna to repeat networks up to 1.5 miles away. It also offers two network ports on the device for connecting a network switch, notebook computer, desktop PC or other device requiring Internet access.
The second device from Amped Wireless is the AP600EX Wireless-N pro access point. Identical to the R600EX wireless-N pro smart repeater, it uses the same 600mW amplifier as well as the bi-directional antenna. The plug-and-play design allows consumers to simply plug the access point into a nearby router to get started. Both the AP600EX and the SR600EX are built with a weatherproof enclosure allowing for mounting on the exterior of a home or office. While the devices come with pole mounting and wall mounting kits for outdoor use, the consumer can also use the desktop mount for indoor use. However, the range is likely reduced when using the devices inside a home.
Each device can also be powered over an Ethernet adapter if the mounting location isn’t conveniently located near a power outlet. Both pieces of hardware come with a 30-foot power over Ethernet cable is needed. The SR600EX repeater and the AP600EX access point each have an external antenna port for use with an antenna that can provide a more useful range. Both the AP600EX access point and the SR600EX repeater are priced at $179.99 and can be found at most online retailers.
