Sony Japan has announced a new Linux-powered audio-visual router that combines the functions of a “traditional” gateway/router with those of a home multimedia server and Wi-Fi (802.11b) wireless access point.

According to Sony, the HN-RT1 broadband AV router connects home computers, media centers, and the Sony Playstation 2 to each other and the Internet, using both wired and wireless connectivity. The HN-RT1 also enables broadband network gaming, and can be used as a server to share a USB-connected printer throughout a home's Wi-Fi network, Sony said. Additionally, Sony's Internet Service Provider division in Japan, So-net, plans to use the HN-RT1 as a service gateway to deliver digital audio-visual entertainment services into the home.

Here is a summary of key HN-RT1 features and specifications . . .

• CPU: 400MHz Via processor
• Memory: 64MB SDRAM
• LAN: 4 10/100 Base-T ports
• Wireless: IEEE 802.11b
• 2 version 1.1 USB ports
• Expansion slot: Sony memory stick
• Operating system: Linux (based on MontaVista Linux)
• Protocols supported (in additional to normal router functions): UPnP, IPv6, VPN
• Dimensions: 8 x 9.1 x 1.8 in.
• Weight: 2.9 lb.

According to Sony, IPv6 services, available mid-2003, will facilitate communication among various IPv6-enabled home appliances on the home network.

A good GPL citizen, Sony provides a section of their worldwide support site where their GPL Linux source code can be accessed.

 
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