What once was priced at a hefty P3,995, Smart’s HSPA+ dongle is now available for just P2,345. The Smart Bro Rocket Plug-it is the first prepaid 4G dongle in the country with speeds of up to 12 Mbps.

This Rocket Plug-it now comes in a design that’s made specifically for women. Featuring a glossy pink acrylic finish, the Rocket Chic is a class of its own. The original black Smart Bro Rocket isn’t bad-looking at all but if you want something that would match your pink notebook, the Rocket Chic won’t disappoint you. What’s even nice about this design is its sliding USB plug so you don’t have to worry about losing a cap like in other dongles.

“This is a limited time offer and the timing is just right because the Rocket Chic is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift,” said Smart Broadband Internet and Data Services Manager Anne Binuya.

To purchase your very own Smart Bro Rocket Chic go to http://store.smart.com.ph or visit www.smart.com.ph/bro for more information.

The Resistance Begins Now.

Globe Tattoo calls for ‘Resistance’ as it launched bolder and better products along with its newest brand ambassadors at Ayala Museum Thursday night. Globe Tattoo’s campaign expresses going beyond limitations, and not settling for anything less, which is why their newest set of Tattoo products, Tattoo Sonic, Tattoo 4G Flashes and Tattoo 4G SuperStick, would empower its users through stronger bandwidth and wider coverage.

Globe Tattoo’s new set of products

Providing the techno-savvy, social media enthusiasts with prepaid or post-paid options, Globe Tattoo pars with their fast-paced lifestyles with add-ons to the already powerful products. These are the Speed and Volume Boost that will maximize the potential of the newly-launched set extending the internet speed up to 12, 21 or 42 mbps and widen its volume for the kind of broadband power that suits your needs.

“Join the Resistance” is Globe Tattoo’s campaign call

Who can better represent resistance than Globe Tattoo’s newest faces, “Filipino Flash” Nonito Donaire Jr., Chicosci vocalist Miggy Chavez and supermodel Georgina Wilson, who are now at the peak of their chosen careers because they resisted mediocrity, uniformity and limitations.

Miggy and Georgina answers Q&A about what they have resisted. They also picked the winners of 3 Blackberry phones.

The event, hosted by Sarah Meier-Albano, showcased people who are known for making a name in the industries they are in. Prominent personalities and the media have been invited to “join the resistance.” Bloggers and retailers were invited as well.

Globe’s Management with the brand ambassadors for a photo op.

As Globe leaders reiterate, the company has taken on to the challenges of the future as it recognizes the growing need to let go of traditional and begin with the new. Globe Tattoo’s campaign is expected to create a louder call for resistance in the next months. For more information about the products, you may visit: http://tattoo.globe.com.ph

Asus recently launched one of their latest wireless routers, the Black Diamond RT-N15U which sports a futuristic-looking finish. It’s not as unconventional-looking as the Linksys E4200 but it still looks really snazzy with that “carbon-fibery” shell.

The Asus RT-N15u wireless router has blazingly fast 300Mbps data rates (not their fastest though) and quality Gigabit connections. With its unique design, you can have it wall-mounted to save space. It can also act as a repeater to spread your wireless signal in other parts of your home or office, just scan for signal and connect to its SSID.

Speaking of SSID, Black Diamond can also support up to four SSIDs so single independent wireless networks can be created, each with their own performance and security settings. This enables users to prioritize a secure but high-bandwidth network for personal use alongside a more open low-bandwidth network for guests.

The RT-N15U wireless router features EZ UI, a powerful graphical User Interface (UI) that provides intuitive set-up and easy management of printers and other networked resources. It features a suite of innovative connectivity solutions including EZ All-in-One Printer, QIS, and Ai Disk. EZ All-in-One Printer allows multiple users to share printers and scanners without a dedicated server managing the process; thus increases office efficiency by handling multiple printing requests simultaneously. The EZ All-in-One Printer also supports and detects all major printer brands on the market. QIS (Quick Internet Setup) facilitates device connection to the Internet in three easy steps, while Ai Disk allows users to easily set up a FTP server at home in three simple steps.

You should be able to see the Asus Black Diamond RT-N15U wireless router in stores in mid-February for Php5,090.

D-Link International Pte Ltd, one of the world’s biggest suppliers of networking products recently unveiled the DAP-2360, AirPremier N PoE Access Point with Plenum-rated Chassis. DAP-2360 is the replacement model to one of D-Link’s best selling business type Access Point – DWL-3200AP, which offers higher specifications and better performance. With the support of Gigabit Ethernet interface and wireless transfer rate of up to 300Mbps in 2.4GHz, users are able to connect with legacy 802.11b/g adapters as well as the latest 802.11n adapters to enjoy faster downloads and instant communication.

“The main concern for SMB customer is not just about higher reliability, performance and security, but also how to manage their wireless network easily and effectively,” said Mr Desmond Toh, Marketing Director of D-Link International Pte Ltd. “DAP-2360 provides SMB environments with business-class solution and easy centralized management via D-Link Management tools such as AP Array, AP Manager II and D-View”.

Designed  for highly manageable and extremely robust 802.11n wireless network, the DAP-2360 access point delivers an extensive coverage range and transfer speeds up to 300Mbps, which is ideal for different applications and high performance demand, for example VoIP, Multimedia and streaming. The Wi-Fi Multimedia quality of service (WMM QoS) feature makes it an ideal access point for audio, video and voice applications. Additionally, the DAP-2360 supports load balancing feature to ensure maximum performance by limiting the maximum number of users per access point.

To support different user needs, the DAP-2360 can be configured to other operation modes: Access Point, Wireless Client, Wireless Distribution System (WDS), and WDS with Access Point. The DAP-2360 also includes support of up to 8 VLANs for implementing multiple SSIDs to further help segment users in the network. Security features such as WPA, WPA2, and WPA-PSK assure safe and secure wireless networking.

The access point’s two detachable antennas and white plenum-rated metal chassis provide more application-oriented options and flexibility. It can be easily blends into ceilings or walls and adheres to strict fire codes for placement in air passageways. Power over Ethernet (PoE) function makes the installation easy in areas where power outlets are not readily available.

We were among the few people who got chosen to beta test Smart’s LTE network in Metro Manila. Last March, Smart’s LTE arrived in Boracay where they showcased the speed that you can get from it. Now with just a few LTE sites across Metro Manila, we get to try how it fares on a daily basis.

Smart’s LTE can theoretically go up to 100 Mbps, a far cry from their HSPA+ speed of up to 21Mbps. Of course these are just theoretical numbers, what’s important is the sustained and consistent speed it can give. Smart lent us a Huawei E392 LTE dongle for 3 months to try out. Unfortunately, the device can only give up to 42MBps download speed which kinda limits the LTE network’s capability. It’s not yet certain if this will be the same dongle that would be made available to the public in the undisclosed future but there are other LTE devices out there that can go past the 42MBps of this Huawei dongle.

They gave us a list of areas where we can get LTE connections. There’s not a lot right now. Only 23 on our list with a coverage of about 1.2 km so we need to be picky where we can test this one out. There’s supposed to be one at SM Mall of Asia North Parking but it doesn’t seem to reach here inside One E-Com building. Maybe at the Starbucks downstairs.

Anyway, we were told that when this Smart LTE becomes available, don’t expect it to be affordable as your ordinary SmartBro broadband. This is not for the average consumers who are most likely contented with HSPA+ or even 3G speeds. Smart also told us that they’re planning on having their LTE connection available as a postpaid plan so it’s clearly for those who really require LTE speeds.

We’ll keep you posted on further tests on how fast this LTE can take us as soon as we get hold of an LTE network.

A couple of days ago, Cisco showed us their new suite of Linksys home networking solutions which includes a refresh of their gorgeously designed E-series Wireless N routers as well as a bunch of Wireless-N peripherals. Don’t be confused with the brand, Cisco acquired Linksys in 2003 and is slowly killing off the brand by making the Cisco brand more prominent on their products.

Cisco’s new products are characterized by high performance with cutting-edge technology, setting new benchmarks for speed, range and ease-of-use while featuring the latest industrial design that combines aesthetics and advanced functionality.

Linksys E-Series routers

The E-Series still being highlighted by the beautiful E4200 Wireless N router got a refresh providing speeds of up to 450Mbps. Key features include 3×3 spatial stream configuration for improved coverage, external power amplifiers to maintain signal strength over a greater distance and reduce dead spots and virtual USB technology to connect USB printers and storage to the network. Don’t be fooled with the internal antenna, these routers give better range than most antenna-based routers.

Cisco also showcased various Wireless N peripherals that would complement these routers.

Linksys WES610N Dual-Band Wireless-N Entertainment Bridge

The versatile Linksys WES610N Entertainment Bridge can make any wired device a part of the home wireless network. With a built-in 4-Port Switch to easily connect multiple devices, the Linksys WES610N converts TVs, printers, computers and other wired devices to wireless. It is optimized for streaming video and is ideal for wirelessly streaming or sharing music, photos, movies and other files around the home so consumers can create their very own entertainment hub with just one device. SRP: Php6,595

Linksys RE1000 Wireless-N Range Extender

For consumers experiencing weaker signal strength or “dead spots” in the home, the Linksys RE1000 Range Extender is the perfect companion for wider home coverage. The extender is designed to take an existing wireless signal and repeat it throughout the home to ‘extend’ the signal.  The Linksys Range Extender also acts as a wireless bridge – connecting a wired printer, Internet enabled TV or game console to the wireless network through its integrated Ethernet port. SRP: Php3,995

Linksys Switches

The new range of Linksys switches include features to enable faster and more simple wired connections. These include plug-and-play, eliminating the need for configuration, as well as Quality of Service (QoS) auto-sensing ports and power-saving features. The power-saving modes include auto power-down to disable unused ports, sleep mode when all ports are inactive and smart power for short cable runs. The switches are ideal for consumers or home office workers seeking an alternative to wireless, connections for multiple wired devices, or simply to extend their existing network.

Linksys AE1000 & AE1200 Wireless-N Adaptor & Linksys AE2500 Dual Band Wireless-N Adaptor

The Linksys AE1000 and AE1200 Wireless-N Adaptor and Linksys AE2500 Dual Band Wireless-N Adaptor are ideal to upgrade computers to Wireless-N by simply plugging the adapter into a computer’s USB port. The Linksys AE1000 and AE2500 additionally offer Dual-Band Wireless-N to allow selection between the 2.4GHz band and 5 GHz band to avoid interference and maximize throughput.

Ruckus Wireless has been making some noise in the Wi-Fi space for a while now. In their slogan “Wi-Fi- that’s FASTER. FARTHER. STRONGER. SIMPLY SMARTER.”, they really mean business and they are serious in getting a good share of the market where Cisco, HP and all other wireless players have been first.

In a recent event, they tapped MEC Corporation, an established distribution company based in Ortigas, Pasig City to be their latest partner in its objective to serve more Systems Integrators and Resellers alike.

MEC on the other hand is a company that has been around for 16 years in the industry which employs more than a hundred manpower composed of both sales, engineers and back end support team. Currently they are the leading Information and Communications Technology (ICT) distributor. They distribute the following top brands in the industry- HP Procurve, Firetide, Axis Cameras, Shoretel, SonicWall, Extreme Networks and Ruckus Wireless.

MEC does not sell their products directly to customers though, the format is MEC sells its products and solutions to Integrators and Resellers. But don’t worry if you go directly to MEC, they will refer you to its loyal partners.

L-R: Bill Pascuzzi - Reg. Sales Mgr, Louis Au - VP for Asia Pac, Merric Co - MEC President, Dennis Sy - VP for Prod. Dev't.

Present in the launch were Louis Au – VP for Asia Pacific; Bill Pascuzzi – Regional Sales Manager for the Philippines and Indonesia the entire team of MEC Corporation headed by Merrick Chua.

So if your company is expanding and you wish to try the technology that Ruckus is offering, get in touch with MEC now. In the Philippines, they have already installed Wi-Fi networks for big hotels and and few schools.

Below are useful links for your reference.

• MEC Coporate Website
• Ruckus Website
• Ruckus Facebook and Twitter

If you’re craving for speed on your mobile internet, the Smart Bro Rocket may be of interest to you. This dongle is capable of acquiring HSPA+ speeds of up to 12Mbps and will set you back Php3,995.

Smart is currently expanding the coverage of their HSPA+ network but it now covers key areas in Metro Manila and key cities in Cebu and Davao. If you want to know where Smart Bro Rocket is very much operational, head over to Smart’s page of HSPA+ areas.

You can get the Smart Bro Rocket at selected Smart stores nationwide. It’s the third and fastest iteration of Smart Bro Plug-its. The entry-level Starter Kit can deliver 3G speeds of up to 2Mbps for only Php995. The Power Plug also runs on Smart’s 3G network but can reach speeds of up to 3.6Mbps and is available for Php1,245.

The prepaid Rocket kit comes with an hour of free surfing. Regular browsing still costs P10 for every 30 minutes.

If you’re seriously considering getting one, Yugatech has some Smart Bro Rocket buying tips that you may want to check out first.

Check out this wireless router that doesn’t look like a router at all. It’s the Linksys E4200 Maximum Performance Dual-Band N Router, a feature-rich router for your home that doesn’t require you to be a geek to set up. But those who wants more control will also be amazed with the comprehensive options that you can also play with.

With dual-band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) support, the E4200 can delegate your throughput-heavy devices such as gaming consoles, media servers, into the less crowded and faster 5GHz band while the 2.4GHz can be used by your iPad and other less bandwidth-intensive wireless devices.

You won’t see an antenna on the E4200 because it has an internal antenna design instead. Don’t let it fool you though, this router’s effective range reaches up to 290 feet which is quite exceptional for a home router.

Other features include 4 Gigabit Ethernet ports for throughput up to 1,000 Mbps. There’s also a USB 2.0 port where you can plug in an external drive when you want to share its contents with other devices in the network.

Now if all those features seem to be daunting you, don’t be. With the included Cisco connect, you can set up your wireless home network in a jiffy, as in three steps! It will also allow you to easily manage your network, like set up parental controls or creating a separate network just for guests, just like you’re a professional network administrator.

The Linksys E4200 is the high-end product for their E-series line and costs Php9,288. A bit pricey but is worth every penny if you have a lot of things planned for your own wireless network. Of course, there’s also the option of choosing the lower-end Linksys E-series models but this one really takes the cake when it comes to features and design.

The Linksys E-series wireless routers are commercially available at the following MSRPs and retailers. For more information about Linksys and the E-series, please visit: http://www.linksysbycisco.com/APAC/en/promo/Promotion-E-Series.

• Linksys E4200 Maximum Performance Wireless-N Router MSRP PHP 9,288
• Linksys E3000 High Performance Wireless-N Router MSRP PHP 8,288
• Linksys E2000 Advanced Wireless-N Router MSRP PHP 5,288
• Linksys E1000 Wireless-N Router MSRP PHP 3,288

Available at Accent Micro, Asianic, Complink, Gigahertz, Electroworld, Octagon Computer Superstores, PC
Corner, PC Express, PC Gilmore, PC Options, PC Worx, Silicon Valley, TCA, Villman Computers.

Earlier this evening, Globe finally introduced their devices and services that will utilize their HSPA+ network. It was just last April when they demoed their HSPA+ speed to the media which can go up to 10 Mbps. However, what good is that speed if there’s no device in the market that can utilize it right? Well here they are.

First up is the new broadband stick called the Tattoo Tonino Lamborghini. This 4G broadband dongle is available under Globe’s newest postpaid plan which will go for P2,199 monthly. Using the device, subscribers can enjoy surf-all-you-want, high speed mobile broadband access powered by Globe’s 4G network.

Globe is also proud to be the first to bring a 4G phone in the country in the form of Samsung Galaxy S2. This one’s not a surprise anymore but finally it’s coming after thinking it would be available last May. This superphone running on a pair of 1.2GHz processor and touting a huge 4.3″ Super AMOLED display will be exclusive to Globe once it becomes available on June 27. My SuperSurf Plan 3799 subscribers can get it for free while prepaid subscribers can get it for P29,990.

Completing the 4G portfolio is the Video Message Service (VMS), the newest and one of the most interactive media channels for mobile phone users best enjoyed under the 4G network and the Samsung Galaxy S II device. Through VMS, users can create, view, upload, share, send and receive video content through their mobile phones. It also allows users to connect with their favorite celebrities by following their video blogs and music videos, watching their video clips, or being updated with the latest happenings and events through partnership with GMA New Media. As a special treat, VMS be will available for free to My SuperSurf Plan subscribers until July 31.

This VMS thing I’m not keen of, well not at this early stage of 4G. Until the country is saturated with 4G coverage and people with 4G devices, video messaging won’t really take off. Maybe in a couple of years.

However, Globe is being aggressive in the expansion of their 4G HSPA+ sites which will benefit more subscribers in the coming months. To date, commercial deployment of HSPA+ has doubled, with presence now available in Mandaluyong, Navotas, Caloocan and Valenzuela.