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SMC ADSL Barricade g SMC7804WBRA
Price: £149

Features
Performance
Ease of use
Value for money
Overall

Reviewed By: Andy Shaw

This review updated: 19/02/2004
Featured in magazine:
Issue 77
Manufacturer Contacts:
Supplier: SMC
Web Address: www.smc-europe.com


This 54Mbps wireless broadband router from SMC has everything you need in the box. With an ADSL filter included in the package, this is another device you could pick up along with a no-frills ADSL connection and get going with straight away.

Setting the device up is relatively simple. The manual is very thorough but can get a little bogged down in technicalities at times, with not quite enough explanation for the total beginner. Take it slowly though, and most users should get through it OK. The configuration software uses a wizard-like series of questions to set up the basics, which is a good example of how potentially problematic hardware like routers should be targeted at the home user. There was one flaw in that an option suggested in the manual is missing from the configuration software – the 'not listed' option that uses a best-guess setting if your particular ISP's details haven't been pre-configured on the device. If you find yourself in this situation, the settings for BT Openworld worked fine on our connection.

Once up and running, the unit performs happily. Up to four computers can be linked via the four Ethernet ports on the back, or you can connect more using its 802.11g wireless capability. You can configure this device wirelessly so there's no specific need for a computer with an Ethernet connection, but the manual is a little vague in this area.

In all, it's quite similar in features and specification to the US Robotics device, though with a slightly more expensive price tag it's just pipped to our Gold Award.

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