MTN is preparing to launch its HSDPA/HSUPA wireless gateway, aimed at the home business, or home entertainment markets.
The company's new wireless router is its first foray into providing data services that are not mobile. "While the device is nomadic, the router is really meant to be a static routing and Internet service," says MTN senior manager for data, roaming and reseller solutions Brian Seligmann.
The wireless gateway was developed together with Huawei, and MTN developed the software to accompany the device. Seligmann says the company has been considering a solution like this for some time, however, the technologies available have been either too expensive, or too complicated for customers to use.
"We were not comfortable with the available wireless technologies on the market. We wanted something simple, easy to use and as cost effective as possible," adds Seligmann.
MTN's new gateway device is completely operating system-agnostic and users will not need to install any drivers to make it work. In a live demonstration to ITWeb, MTN connected the router to a PC with windows, a MacBook with Leopard, a Netbook with Linux, a PlayStation Portable and a Blackberry.
The router supports 3G, HSDPA, EDGE, GPRS and GSM. For wireless access, it supports the 802.11b and 802.11g standards for WiFi. The device also allows access on four Ethernet ports, and supports voice calls on a telephone port.
To set up the device requires no technical knowledge. The setup is conducted in a Web browser and literally takes four clicks to complete. All client information and required access information is already input to the system when a user receives it.
According to Seligmann, the device can theoretically carry a large number of simultaneous wireless connections, however, MTN recommends that users top out at a maximum of six active devices.
The company says that full virtual private network capability will eventually be delivered on the device for office to office network deployment. "While the ability is built into the device now, it is not a standard offer yet."
The device will be released commercially at the end of the month, at a recommended retail rate of R2 500, including VAT. The company says it will announce the possible packages closer to the time.
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