Sony DCRTRV80 MiniDV 2Megapixel Camcorder with 3.5" LCD, Memory Stick, Bluetooth Wireless Connectivity, and Networking Capability
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $1,599.99
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Editorial Review

Since MiniDV has entered the mainstream market, users can now demand extra features in addition to regular digital video performance.The Sony DCR-TRV80 is well equipped with technological additions, such as a 2-megapixel digital camera and wireless Bluetooth networking capabilities. The camcorder also features a 10x optical zoom, 16:9 widescreen mode, a 3.5-inch LCD with touchscreen control, and a color viewfinder.

Step-up Value
Here are two Sony features that adds value to this digital camcorder and differentiate it from other models in the Sony lineup.

2.0 Megapixel Sensor: Of all the world's consumer camcorders, Sony was the first to break the megapixel barrier. Working with high-resolution recording and high-precision Sony custom optics, the benefits are dramatic. You'll see amazing detail on everything you shoot. Every blade of grass. Every strand of hair. The names on the back of player uniforms. And megapixel resolution is also a great benefit in Sony's Digital still camera function (Memory Mode). You'll be able to shoot images at 1600 x 1200 pixels, for prints up to 8 x 10nches.

Digital Still Memory Mode: Capture digital still images directly onto Memory Stick media for easy transfer to e-mail, printing, or sharing with compatible Memory Stick devices. Digital still images can be captured while in Memory Mode, or images from the videotape can be captured onto Memory Stick media. This feature provides the Dual Function of having one camera for video and still images, and provides the user with a whole new world of imaging possibilities.

Image Stabilization
Sony's SteadyShot picture stabilization keeps your images smooth and steady without degrading picture quality. The technology uses motion sensors, which tend to be more accurate than most other systems used in the camcorder market.

Optics
The multicoated Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens ensures balanced and clear contrast. The advanced HAD CCD sensor records images accurately in vibrant color and sharp resolution. The TRV80 has a robust 10x optical zoom that fits most purposes, but for extra distance the camera can reach 120x through the digital zoom. A hologram autofocus system and several autoexposure modes allow for automatic operation while achieving ideal images for the situation.

More Features
You can record video in low- to no-light situations with Sony's NightShot system, which uses infrared light to capture images invisible to the human eye. With the function on, subjects up to 10 feet away can be seen in total darkness. You can also use the color slow shutter for color night shots instead of the regular green night-shot hue.

Sony's Stamina power management system and InfoLithium battery give the TRV80 a long operating time. To keep you informed of current battery life, Sony's AccuPower meter displays the number of minutes remaining right in the viewfinder.

You can take digital stills and record small MPEG EX movies using the included 8 MB Memory Stick. This is where the 2-megapixel resolution CCD really shines, creating images that can be printed at sizes of up to 1,600 x 1,200 pixels for prints up to 8 by 10 inches. The intelligent pop-up flash keeps your images well-lit and visible.

The TRV80 features a huge 3.5-inch color LCD and a color viewfinder. The menu is accessed via a touchscreen display on the LCD, reducing the clutter of buttons on the camera. A stylus is also included for ease of use.

The USB streaming feature can turn the TRV80 into a video-conferencing tool or a Webcam, and the standard IEEE 1394 connection can be used for digital video editing on a computer. The TRV80's improved Bluetooth technology enables wireless peer-to-peer data transfers and Internet connectivity with an optional adapter or Bluetooth-enabled cell phone.

MiniDV Format
MiniDV is the preferred format for personal and broadcast-quality video, highly regarded for its high audio and image quality. With up to 540 lines of horizontal resolution and minimum color noise, MiniDV delivers a 20 percent clearer picture than analog camcorder formats. This is all delivered on a cassette that's 1/12th the size of a standard VHS tape. A MiniDV tape offers digital recording time of 2 full hours--20 times the capacity of a CD.

Contents
This package includes the TRV80 camcorder, power adaptor and in-camera charger, InfoLithium rechargeable battery, 8 MB Memory Stick, stylus, wireless remote, AV cable, lens cap, shoulder strap, USB cable, two AA batteries, and USB drivers. ... Read more

Features

• Improved Bluetooth wireless networking capabilities
• NightShot O Lux infrared system with color mode for recording in total darkness
• Compact MiniDV digital camcorder with 2-megapixel imaging
• 10x optical, 120x digital, zoom with Super SteadyShot image stabilization
• 3.5-inch touch-panel color SwivelScreen LCD display; includes 8 MB Memory Stick for still image and MPEG1 capture

Reviews (7)

Excellent
The Best Camcorder i have ever had by far.Bluetooth is the coolest thing, and the picture quality is supurb.I would reccomend this to anybody who wants a high quality camera.Yes, you spend a few extra dollars, but in the long run it is worth it.

Wow
What a camera indeed. I just got it three days ago and after reading the manual I see there will be a lot of learning ahead for me. There are so many features this camera has I know I will not use most of them. The video is sharp and the photos are better then expected (acceptable but I will still use my digital camera when needed or preferred). The supplied 8 MB memory stick is only worth a tease, you will have to get at least a 128 MB or greater! Being in the Air Force and stationed in Germany this will be one treat to carry along on up coming trips!

Satisfied User
I am technically competent, but a novice at video photography.Therefore, I spent weeks reviewing a a number of various cameras.I ultimately decided on the TRV 80 because of:the HAD technology, the 3 1/2 touch screen, the digital still, the still pop-up flash, along with the features rich capabilities of this camera.I have used it for about a week and have found it to be very easy to use.The controls are intuitive and the manual has been very easy to navigate.You should also consider the need for various accessoriies.I purchased it with a bundled package which included: tripod, 2 additional batteries, wide and telephoto lenses, case, tapes, cleaning kit, USB card reader, and a four year MAC parts and labor warranty.Add on package was less about two hundred seventy dollars and well worth it.Also spent a long time looking for editing software with good reviews.Settled on PYRO Digital Video, which indluded a 1394 PCI card and software compatable with the Sony camera.They have beginner, intermediate and Pro versions available.So far I am extremely pleased with the camera, and accessory packages.I am able to take great videos now and when I master the advanced features I'm sure the quality of the movies produced will improve.Highly recommend this product and suggest you consider the add on packages, especially the 4 year warranty. ... Read more

Asin: B000087LIL
Subjects:  1. Digital Camera (Cameras)    2. Photograph (Photography)    3. Camcorder (Camcorders)   

Sony MVCCD500 CD Mavica 5MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $699.99 -- our price: Too Low To Display
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

The Sony Mavica CD500 combines the advantages and capacity of the instant-archive CD-R/RW format with advanced resolution and control flexibility. The Mavica CD500 features a 5-megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom, and a movie mode that shoots full-frame video.

Step-up Value
Here's a Sony feature that adds value to this digital camera and differentiates it from other models in the Sony lineup.

CD-RW Media: CD Mavica cameras shoot directly to 156 MB CD-R/RW discs, so there's room for hundreds of images and movie clips for instant archiving.

Optics and Resolution
Optimized for photo enthusiasts, the MVC-CD500 offers a 5-megapixel Super HAD sensor for image detail up to 2,592 x 1,944 pixels and print enlargements up to 20 by 30 inches. Get closer to your subjects with the Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar 3x optical zoom lens (34-102mm equivalency in 35mm photography). The Mavica CD500 also features a 3.2x digital zoom.

Storage and Transfer
Images are stored on high-capacity 156 MB CD-R (recordable) and CD-RW (rewritable) discs, enabling you to instantly archive your shots. Images can be downloaded to either a Mac or PC via USB connectivity, which means it can be connected to any USB-based Windows 98/Me/2000/XP and Mac OS 8.6 or later computer without installing any software.

Movie Mode
You can capture far more than still images with the MPEG Movie VX function. Most digital cameras' movie modes are limited to 30- or 60-second clips, but the Mavica CD500 can keep shooting until you've filled the CD-R/RW, approximately 6 minutes at full VGA resolution (640 x 480, 16 frames per second).

More Features
Flexible exposure control is provided with aperture priority, shutter priority, and manual exposure modes. For better command of motion and depth of field, the Program Shift feature allows various aperture and shutter-speed combinations from within the auto mode. The Mavica CD500's five-area multipoint AF can also evaluate five separate areas of the frame and intelligently focuses on the subject, displaying the selected focus point; or, the user can choose any of the five points for manual control.

With single, monitoring, and continuous AF modes, the photographer can optimize focusing to the situation, which is especially useful for capturing action shots. The hologram AF illuminator projects a laser pattern on the subject to artificially create contrast, even in low or no light.

Multipattern measuring independently meters the light in 49 points of the frame to establish the optimum exposure, even when highlight and shadow are not centered in the frame.

Other features include:

• Large 2.5-inch TFT LCD monitor
• Pop-up flash with auto, on, off, slow, and red-eye reduction modes
• Hot-shoe for connecting external flash or remote control
• Scene modes include twilight, twilight portrait, landscape, beach, and snow
• Two-shot burst mode and multiburst mode of 16 images at 320 x 240 pixels

Power, Size, and Contents
The camera is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery NP-FM50 (included). It measures 5.5 x 3.8 x 4.1 inches and weighs 1.3 pounds. This package includes the Mavica CD500 digital camera, battery and battery charger, USB and AV cables, 1 blank CD-R, 1 blank CD-RW, and CD-ROM with imaging software and USB drivers for Windows and Mac. ... Read more

Features

• Captures full-frame video (640 x 480), limited by CD media (6 minutes for 156 MB disc)
• Stores images on 3-inch, 156 MB CD-R/RW discs; 1 CD-R and 1 CD-RW included
• Powered by rechargeable lithium-ion battery (NP-FM50 included); connects with PCs and Macs via USB
• 5-megapixel Super HAD CCD sensor for enlargements up to 20 x 30 inches
• Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens; 3x optical zoom plus 4x digital zoom (12x total)

Reviews (27)

Even A Grandmother Can Handle It!
My late husband loved digital photography. When he passed away, I looked at this Sony camera sitting on the shelf and decided I was going to learn to use it. I'm not a technical person so I can't go into all the technicalities of the cells, apertures, etc. that so many other people speak about.

But what I CAN tell you is that I started an online website, Atlanta Vintage Jewelry dot com, and all the pictures there (over 1400 so far) have been taken with this camera. I found it relatively easy to learn (with the help of the instruction book). It has great features, close-up capabilities, various white balances, spot metering, timer, and such that I use regularly.

My graphics program is Photoshop. After taking the pics, the camera simply connects to my PC, and after reading the CD source in the camera I can import them right into the program for editing. It also has a threaded lens so it accepts filters and additional lenses, if needed.

I love this camera. My husband also had some other camera brands (i.e. Olympus) and after working with them, I chose this Sony as my favorite. Bulky? A little. But it's immaterial.

The only negative I can say is that you have to keep the camera steady once you've snapped the picture until the red light goes out (writing info to the interior disc). Otherwise the data may not show up. To virtually eliminate this problem, I now use a tabletop tripod and the camera's timer.

I've taken self portraits successfully. It takes great distance shots. I've only changed the little CD once, and they're relatively inexpensive compared to memory sticks. The camera has a built in flash but also a hot shoe to accept bounce flashes or whatever.

I like it and I think you will, too.

Any other MAVICA enthusiasts out there?
I prefer SONY MAVICAS because they so easily accommodate the 3 inch disk CD-R/CD-RW which hold 156MB - 190MB per disc giving me the flexibility of unlimited memory storage and costing 0.50 cents per disc as opposed to the overtly pricey habit of replenishing COMPACT FLASH memory cards (or precious memory-sticks as SONY calls them).More importantly, I don't have to lug around my laptop on holiday excursions... !
I have a Sony MVCCD500 CD Mavica 5MP Digital Camera w/ 3x Optical Zoom .
Instead of the laptop, I'd rather carry along as well my devoted 35mm Canon film SLR longtime companion (for old times' sake) along with my 8-month old Mavica.Any thoughts to share?!

Can't wait for the new 6MP SONY MAVICA dual video/still to come out.

Great camera for pro or amateur
I've had this camera for over a year now, have used it under varing conditions (cold, rain, dust) and it works perfectly.One of the best features of this camera is that you can save the small CDs in your library, and never have to worry about your computer crashing and losing all your valuable photos!I buy the read-only CDs (which are cheaper) and don't delete any photographs that I take.

Granted, the camera is a bit heavier than the little ones that seem to be so popular, but not as heavy as you'd think.

I use the camera to take photographs for various web sites that I host, and the quality of the photographs are amazingly good.Another plus is that no matter where you travel with it, if you can find a computer with a CD-ROM drive you can see the photographs.No need to travel with your camera's software and plugs... This way I can leave an electronic version of photographs with those I'm visiting, and still take them home.

Simply a five star camera.I wouldn't trade it in for any other type. ... Read more

Asin: B00008O37P
Subjects:  1. Digital Camera (Cameras)    2. Photograph (Photography)   

Sony MVCCD400 CD Mavica 4MP Digital Camera w/3x Optical Zoom
Average Customer Review:
Electronics
list price: $799.99
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Editorial Review

The unique feature of Sony's CD400 Mavica is a built-in mini-CD recorder, a clever solution that simultaneously provides affordable portable memory and long-term archival storage. The camera also features a 4-megapixel sensor, a 3x optical zoom Carl Zeiss lens, a jumbo 2.5-inch display, and long-life rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

Optics and Resolution
The CD400's 4-megapixel sensor captures a tremendous amount of detail, allowing sharp 11-by-14-inch prints with pixels to spare. If you're currently using a high-quality 35mm point-and-shoot, expect to see as much detail in your digital pictures as you currently see in your film photos.

A 3x Carl Zeiss optical zoom lens (34-102mm equivalent) helps you to capture exactly the picture you want, and an additional 2x digital zoom (6x total) further magnifies your image. Remember, however, that digital zoom tends to reduce the sharpness and detail of your image, so it's best used sparingly. In low-light situations (a particular weakness for many digital cameras), a focus-assist lamp sends out a small patterned beam to help the camera accurately determine distance.

To save space, there's no traditional optical viewfinder to look through. Instead, to compose your images or review shots you've already taken, the CD400 uses a 2.5-inch color display. The advantage to using the LCD to frame your shots is that the screen lets you see exactly the picture you'll capture. The disadvantage is that you can't turn off the screen and just use the optical viewfinder to extend battery life. Fortunately, the included rechargeable battery holds a relatively good charge.

More Features
The engineers at Sony have gone out of their way to make it as easy as possible to share your images online. For example, the e-mail mode stores a lower-resolution version of your picture on the disc in a separate folder from the full-size version. This compact file lacks the detail of the original, but has a small file size, making it ideal for e-mail attachments. In addition, a video e-mail mode captures highly compressed, less-detailed movie clips that are also small enough to easily e-mail. With the time, expertise, and the right software, owners of any digital camera can create these more compact files on their home computers, but Sony saves you this trouble.

More advanced photographers will appreciate manual focus, a 14-bit A/D processor that captures more gradations in color than most digital cameras, and an uncompressed TIFF mode for recording the highest-quality photos.

Power
The CD400 uses Sony's excellent InfoLithium battery system, which not only holds a respectable charge, but also displays on screen how many minutes of power remain. Both the battery and the charger are included. Because the battery is unique to specific Sony models and can be nearly impossible to find when on the road, we strongly recommend getting a spare if you're planning to take the camera on extended outings.

Movie Mode
In movie mode, the camera captures video clips with sound at resolutions up to 320 x 240 pixels. Unlike most digital cameras, the length of each video is limited only by the amount of memory left on the CD. The limited resolution of these clips guarantees that this feature won't replace your camcorder, but it's perfect for when you just want to capture a quick movie and e-mail it to a friend or relative.

Storage and Transfer
With a traditional digital camera, images are stored on memory cards, then transferred to your computer via a cable or card reader, and ultimately archived by recording on a CD-R or other high-capacity medium. Sony's CD Mavicas simplify this process by recording images directly to CD, using a 3-inch miniature CD recorder integrated into the back of the camera (hence the camera's rounded shape). These discs are substantially smaller than traditional 5-inch CDs, and only hold about one-fourth as much information (156 MB instead of 650 MB), but this is still enough space to store over 60 photos at the camera's highest-quality compressed mode. Each disc costs a couple of dollars. To transfer pictures to your computer, simply remove the disc from the camera and insert it into your computer's CD-ROM drive. Unlike images recorded on memory cards, pictures taken on a CD-R are permanently burned into the disc, instantly providing a digital "negative" for archiving your photos.

If you prefer to transfer your images in the traditional way, just use an erasable/re-recordable CD-RW disc and connect the camera to your computer with the included USB cable. After transferring the images, you can erase the CD-RW disc to ready it for another batch of photos.

Size
At 5.5 by 3.75 by 4 inches, and 23 ounces, you won't slip this one into your shirt pocket, but it's still one of the smallest disc-based cameras available. The CD400 fits nicely into most SLR camera carrying cases.

Contents and Recommended Accessories
The package includes the CD400 camera, NP-FM50 battery, AC-L10 cable for in-camera charging, six 3-inch CD-R discs, one 3-inch re-recordable CD-RW, shoulder strap, AV cable, USB cable, and software on CD.

Everything you need to get started is included in the box, but we recommend these accessories to make the most of your camera: a carrying case, additional 3-inch CD-R or CD-RW discs, and a second battery (especially if you're taking the camera on extended trips). Compatible accessories for this camera are listed near the top of this page. --Shane Burnett

Pros:

• Integrated CD recorder provides inexpensive storage and image archiving
• Big 2.5-inch screen makes it easy to preview and review photos
• E-mail modes make it easy to share your photos electronically

Cons:

• No traditional optical viewfinder
• CD drive makes the camera bigger and heavier than cameras using memory cards

... Read more

Features

• 3x optical Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar zoom lens and 2x digital zoom with 5-area multi-point autofocus
• Stores images directly on 156 MB 8cm CD-R or CD-RW (rewriteable) discs
• Discs can be read by virtually all Mac and PC CD-ROM drives(not currently compatible with Apple iPhoto)
• Uses proprietary Infolithium rechargeable battery (NP-FM50 )
• 4.1 megapixel sensor creates 2,272 x 1,704 images for prints at sizes up to 11 x 14 inches

Reviews (31)

Great Little Camera
I just love this great camera from Sony.The Mavica MVC-CD400 was a great buy for me a couple of years ago, although a 4 megapixel camera doesn't cost quite this much anymore.I spent 600 dollars for the camera at Best Buy, getting a deal because it was an open item.

The MVC-CD400 is extremely user friendly in all modes of operation (still picture, movie, or review).In my two years of taking pictures with this camera, I have only used the fully automatic still picture mode and the simple movie mode.I've yet to have a bad shot.Part of what makes shooting pictures with this camera so easy is the fact that it has the large viewing window to let the user see just about exactly what the picture will look like.

This camera has a fairly quick auto-focus feature that is highly reliable except in extreme low-light conditions, and even then it can usually compensate for the lack of light by using the built-in diamond pattern lamp used for helping the camera focus.Where this tool starts to fail is for objects more than six feet away, depending on lighting.

Although the camera has a note that it displays on power-up any time it detects a non-Sony Mavica CD installed in the storage bay, I've never had any problem using other discs.Typically I use the Memorex 210 MB CD-R's.

With these discs, I can store 95 pictures at the highest JPEG resolution, or 954 pictures at the lowest resolution.For the movie mode, the same disc will yield 8 minutes and 31 seconds at the highest resolution (which isn't that great at 320 HQX) or 100 minutes at 160 by 112 resolution, which is actually pretty crappy video.But if you want a camcorder, this is not the toy for you.

The camera can also store images in TIFF format, but be prepared to wait a while for the images to save to the disc, and to change the discs often.Only 13 images will fit on a 210 MB disc in this format.For anyone who isn't interested in professionally working with their photos, the JPEG format is fine.I've printed out many of those prints at 8x10 with remarkable detail.

Some of the extra features of this camera include the photo effects, such as black and white or negative (can't quite figure out what I might want to do with that one, but it's there nonetheless) and a red-eye reduction flash.The red-eye reduction takes a little bit more work than I would like to turn on and off (rotating the selector knob to "SET UP" and navigating a couple of options then back again), but it isn't that much of a pain and can be done in about 5 seconds.Also the user can select a "confirm before write" option, to avoid wasting space on the disc for those who have a habit of taking a picture with their thumb over the lens or something.

Another feature of the camera is to stamp the image with a date/time stamp.I don't know why anyone would really want to do this, since the time and date are also imbedded in the file (along with other data such as ISO speed, focal length, flash, and exposure time) and can be retrieved by loading the disc into a computer CD-ROM drive.

Battery life is usually quite good.I can typically use mine for an entire event (football game, wedding, etc.) without worrying about the battery, although the internal monitor might be telling me that it's low toward the end if I've been doing a lot of reviewing.

One of the drawbacks I've read in another review of this product is that sometimes using the camera to review the images stored on the disc can be painfully slow.While it is slower than using a memory stick model, it isn't that bad.Add the advantage of accessing all of the images very quickly using a PC (even before the disc is finalized by the camera) and the usefulness of this method becomes clear.Transfers from a CD are substantially faster than transfers via USB or Firewire.

I have a Canon EOS Digital Rebel now which I use most of the time and love, but I'm not getting rid of this great little Sony.Partly because my girlfriend loves it and it's kind of her camera now (she's laid claim to it), but also because it is still so useful and so good that I see no reason to.

Fragility, portability, durability
As an avid photographer, I wanted a digital camera that had the complicated lense features of a regular SLR without the complications of the various storage disks/cards/drives that plague most other digital cameras. This camera looked like the one. It burns to a mini cd, and therefore the orginal images are available immediately on disc without software or cords. It has mini video functions as well as other high tech possibilities.

Nice idea, but it failed. This camera is still relying on new burning technology, so the camera is still extremely fragile and definately not portable. I've had the camera 10 months and I've had to fix it three times. First the burning lense broke... any slight shake or bump will cause it to go off course, making the entire camera non-usable. As there is no harddrive within the camera, if you cannot burn to cd then you cannot take pictures. Then the photo lense got jammed (over the course of a month--so photos picked up a blur after a little while) and was unable to function, although I was still able to view pictures. After paying to REPLACE both parts (in excess of $150 each) the burning lense broke again after two months.

If you're planning to only take the camera out on special occasions, fine, but if you're planning on doing any sightseeing with it, putting it in a bag and taking it anywhere, it won't hold up.

love this camera
This is the best digital camera I have ever used. I have even bought a spare camera (MVC-CD400 it is sitting quietly in its box) just incase I where to ever break it beyond repair ;)

Ya its that Sweet!!!

Brandon ... Read more

Asin: B000066HU9
Subjects:  1. Digital Camera (Cameras)    2. Photograph (Photography)   

Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless Router
by Microsoft
Average Customer Review:
Electronics (22 September, 2002)
list price: $79.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Microsoft wireless router is the ideal central access point for your wireless network. Connect multiple computers to a single broadband connection. Roam your house or office with the freedom and mobility of a Wi-Fi equipped laptop computer, share files and printers with all the other computers on the network, or play games with multiple players on the Internet and within your own network.

Features include an easy-to-use setup wizard, designed to make connecting your computers together easier. The router comes with strong security features, including a built-in firewall, Network Address Translation (NAT), and access control lists. The 4-port router easily connects to your network with universal plug and play for functionality such as voice messaging, video messaging, and games. You can also monitor your network status easily with Microsoft broadband network utility.

Included in the box with this wireless router are a stand (detachable), power supply cable, Ethernet cable, startup guide, user's guide, setup CD-ROM, and a blank floppy disk.

System requirements include: a computer with a network adapter to configure the router, an external broadband (cable, DSL, or other) modem with Ethernet port (not compatible with dial-up modems), Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or Netscape Navigator 4.7 or later to view and use the management tools, and an available 120 V AC power outlet.

Additional requirements include: a computer running Windows 98, 98 SE, Me, 2000 Professional, XP Professional, or XP Home Edition, Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or later(setup will install Internet Explorer 6.0 browser components, if necessary, but will not displace your primary browser), 28 MB of available hard disk space if you already have Internet Explorer 5.5 or 6.0 (132 MB of available hard disk space if you are installing Internet Explorer for the first time), a 4x or faster CD-ROM drive, and a VGA or higher resolution monitor.

Note: Not all Internet service providers (ISPs) allow the sharing of a broadband connection. Please check with your ISP. ... Read more

Features

• Toll-free product support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
• Easy-to-use Setup Wizard
• Strong security features, including a built-in firewall, Network Address Translation (NAT), and default 128-bit wireless security (WEP)
• Universal Plug and Play for seamless UPnP applications, such as voice messaging, video messaging, and games
• Broadband Network Utility for easy monitoring of your network status

Reviews (79)

Nothing but junk
I purchased this router a few weeks ago, and it
never did work. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.
I sent emails to Amazon, and the person I bought it
from. They didn't even have the courtesy to reply.
Don't think I'll do business with either one again.

Going on for one and half year
I am writing this after using this product for around two years. Excellent product. My Inspiron 8100 has Microsoft's wireless card and PC has D-Link DWL-122. No problem and no downtime at all ( sometimes for months I don't have to touch my router ) . Have been running 128-bit encryption all the way. I was also able to connect to the router running RedHat 9.0 and Fedora 3.0. Overall A+ rating.

Great Router But Had Few Problems
This Router Was a Great Buy I Bought Another one later on it worked so great. Micorsoft Made A Great Router But I Have Had A Few Problems And I HAd To Call Microsoft Support A Few Times But In The End It All Has Worked Out And Because I Had Those Problems I Give IT A 4 ... Read more

Asin: B00006IJO4

Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless USB Adapter
by Microsoft
Average Customer Review:
Electronics (22 September, 2002)
list price: $69.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Microsoft wireless USB adapter makes it easy to securely add any computer with a powered USB port to your 802.11b wireless network. Share a broadband connection by connecting to a base station, share files and printers with other computers on your network, or play games with multiple players on the Internet.

The wireless USB adapter comes with an easy-to-use setup wizard, designed to make connecting your computers together easier. It has strong security features, including 128-bit wireless WEP security, and support for 802.1x standards. The Microsoft broadband network utility makes it easy to monitor your network status.

Included with the wireless USB adapter are an adjustable antenna and attached cable and setup CD-ROM, as well as a startup guide and a user's guide.

System requirements include: a computer with an available USB 1.0 or later, full-speed compliant high-power port, and a Wireless Base Station (sold separately) or other 802.11b/Wi-Fi device or network, as well as a computer running Windows 98, 98 SE, Me, 2000 Professional, XP Home or Professional edition; Internet Explorer 5.0 or later (setup will install Internet Explorer 6.0 browser components, if necessary, but will not displace your primary browser); 28 MB of available hard disk space if you already have Internet Explorer 5.5 or 6.0 (132 MB of available hard disk space if you are installing Internet Explorer for the first time); a 4x or faster CD-ROM drive, and a VGA or higher-resolution monitor. ... Read more

Features

• Easy-to-use Setup Wizard
• Strong security features, including 128-bit wireless security (WEP) and support for 802.11b standards
• Broadband Network Utility for easy monitoring of your network status
• Connects to a computer through its USB port
• Toll-free product support, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Reviews (22)

Great Product
I purshased this USB adapter to my computer to connect with my home network and it has worked great.I was interested in finding if the wireless network would work as well as a wired network and I amquite happy with its performance.

Simple and Reliable
The MN-510 is an easy way to connect your remote PCs easily and without wires to your home network. The install wizard basically guides you through the install and connectivity with the base station is great. One nice thing about this adaper as compared to some slot-style B & G adapters is that the 510 allows you to move the unit because of the USB cable, thus taking advantage of the best position for signal strength. I've installed 6 of these and all in all a great product.

Solid performance
I have had the Microsoft Broadband Networking Wireless USB Adapter for almost a year and it has given me surprisingly little trouble. The setup can be a little tricky for computer novices and when there is a problem with the network, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact source of the error. However, the quality of the connection that it receives from the base station is excellent and it works well through doors and walls. ... Read more

Asin: B00006IJO6