Earlier this year (2011) came the first product announcements to dual WLAN (Dual = 2.4 and 5 GHz simultaneously) with MIMO technology (multiple-channel transmit / receive for higher data throughput). But none was available or then actually had 450 Mbit on both frequencies .... until early August then the TEW-692GR was available (not yet from Amazon; therefore reference about another dealer).
What I wanted to achieve with the exchange:
- 2.4 and 5 GHz: Though here the 2.4 GHz band is not particularly "contaminated", I wanted a promising alternative
- Power-saving equipment
- Long-term stable device, no reboots, hangers all X-days
- Better coverage / better throughput at "critical points" in the house
The way there:
- The router could be easily put by (English speaking) menu into the home network. A little basic knowledge of TCP / IP network and basic English skills are required for initial configuration. Although there is a router, it could be easily configured as an access point. Instead WAN port, a LAN port for the LAN cable, a fixed IP address ... and that's about it. Configure wireless SSIDs (up to 4 SSIDs with different passwords for each 2.4 / 5 GHz possible; nets are not separated)
- Due to the fact that I've configured it as a normal access point to a DNS server was configured for NTP / time adjustment. For that I had to set the time manually.
What I have achieved:
- Total in the 2.4 GHz band a much better coverage. Where before my iPhone 4 or the iPad have minimal reception and throughput hardly be operated mobile devices tidy
- The iPad can also 5 GHz (in contrast to the iPhone). This belt runs much trouble-free with more throughput
- Test with a stationary desktop computer (iMac; 450 MBit possible on 2.4 and 5 GHz) demonstrated connection speeds of 216 and 450 Mbit actual (2.4 / 5 GHz). Net throughput to 5 meters with a wall in the 5 GHz band: real 130 to 150 MBit. This is a peak value (No: 450 MBit can not and must not expect :-))
- The 2.4 GHz band in some cases significantly slower (even at 450 Mbit client cards). Real net throughput is here closer to 80 Mbps on medium / short distances.
- Of course these are all purely subjective experience based on the comparison to the Fritz Box 7050!
- Lower power consumption. Despite GBit network, despite dual WLAN mode (measured 8 watts compared to 14 watts of Fritz! Box, which does not have controlled switching regulator)
- After the initial configuration (two weeks ago) runs the Trendnet TEW-692GR unobtrusive (no reboot or trailer)
What is not perfect:
- No separation of networks at different SSIDs (if we set up a guest network, is only accessible by clicking on the SSID another)
- No configuration option for a DNS server in AP mode
- Slight weakness in the 2.4 GHz band with certain wireless client cards
- Industry standard wireless without password (if interested .... which makes you then anyway itself)
Conclusion:
As a pure access point (router does not have a USB port for mass storage and thus no media server or other frills) is for me the (almost) perfect device. Slight weaknesses in configuring and light weaknesses in the 2.4 GHz band have to get over to me, especially if you can avoid the hassle 5 GHz band. Overall, a point deduction.