Irvine, CA — (press release excerpt) — Linksys today announced a 'first of a kind' Instant Wireless Presentation Gateway (WPG11), that enables wireless PC users to project PowerPoint presentations and other data onto VGA-equipped devices such as multimedia projectors, monitors, and LCD panels without having to physically wire each PC to the projector. This unique innovation launches a new product segment: wireless hardware appliances tailored for specific business uses beyond general 802.11 wireless networking.

Running on an Embedded Linux operating system, the Wireless Presentation Gateway uses an Intersil PRISM 2.5 chipset housed on an internal MiniPCI module, allowing easy chipset upgrades in the future. Linksys is also looking into adding additional advanced features to the Wireless Presentation Gateway for other types of business applications.

The WPG11 lets users take turns controlling the display instantly. Users are each assigned unique key codes for access and control of the device. Since cabling and setup time is eliminated, Wi-Fi-enabled users can take turns controlling the presentation display by simply typing in the pre-assigned key codes. In real time, participants can offer instant visual input that follows the verbal discussion.

The ability to take turns displaying slides and data serves an invaluable role in Q&A sessions, brainstorming, scheduling, strategy meetings and negotiations. Educational forums such as corporate trainings, classrooms and auditoriums can benefit immensely from the group interaction that the Presentation Gateway offers. VGA displays connected to the Presentation Gateway, such as projector screens, TVs, flat-screen and PC monitors, render graphics in vivid 256-color, 1024 x 768 pixel resolution. The device is also equipped with 40/64- and 128-bit WEP encryption modes that keeps unwanted users from accessing the Presentation Gateway.

Linksys has taken ease of use one step further with the Presentation Gateway by creating unique software called the Linksys PresentationPlayer. Awaiting patents, the PresentationPlayer gives the presiding wireless user control of start, pause and stop commands to the visuals. Each wireless user who plans to utilize the Presentation Gateway installs the utility on their computer. The Instant Wireless Presentation Gateway accommodates the wireless network settings of each PC that connects to it, so users? settings remain intact when they return to their original wireless network environment.

The Instant Wireless Presentation Gateway (WPG11) will be available in early May, at a suggested list price of $299, and will will be demonstrated next week at Networld+Interop 2002 in Las Vegas.

 
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