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NETGEAR Launches 200 Mbps Powerline Solution for High-Definition Video and Gaming (17/7/2006)

Speedy Powerline Technology from DS2 Enables High-Quality HD Video and Audio Streaming in the Digital Home

NETGEAR, Inc. (Nasdaq: NTGR), a worldwide provider of technologically advanced, branded networking products, today announced the availability of the 200 Mbps Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter (HDX101) and Kit (HDXB101). The Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter enables consumers to seamlessly connect a personal computer, digital video recorder, game console or other Ethernet-ready device to their home network. It distributes high-speed, high-performance, affordable broadband throughout the home, without the need to run any cabling between rooms.

NETGEAR's Powerline HD Ethernet Adapters turn any AC electrical outlet into an HD-streaming, high-speed Ethernet broadband connection Ð for real-time high-quality video, gaming and VoIP. NETGEAR's Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter offers built-in Video Quality of Service (VQoS) for consistent performance with encrypted security, at unprecedented data rates, to seamlessly stream high-definition video throughout the entire home. The VQoS feature ensures that video and gaming traffic is prioritised above all other network traffic so that HD video streams are free of interruption from others using the network.

"We've seen great demand for this technology, as its simplicity is unbeatable," stated Kartik Gada, NETGEAR's product line manager for connectivity devices. "Consumers are requiring faster, more reliable, convenient and uncomplicated broadband connections throughout their homes, in order to support a growing number of applications like online gaming, audio distribution and HD video streaming, all of which require copious bandwidth. By working with DS2, we've developed the ideal solution for successfully bridging the gap in areas of the home network that aren't conducive to wireless, without requiring a clutter of cords."

"As a leader in the consumer electronics market, NETGEAR is the perfect partner to bring DS2's 200 Mbps Powerline technology to a growing number of consumers who require multi-device, multi-location broadband connectivity within the home," said Jorge Blasco, chief executive officer of DS2. "We wanted to work with NETGEAR because our strategies are aligned Ð we both have a commitment to providing the best products on the market, and take pride in providing simple, reliable, high-speed connectivity. We're a great match."

NETGEAR's Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter Kit (HDXB101) is comprised of two Powerline HD Ethernet Adapters (HDX101), an Ethernet cable, and set-up CD. By simply plugging one of the elegant white Powerline HD Ethernet Adapters to a router and the other to any Ethernet-ready device Ñ such as a PC, game console, print server, digital video recorder, or the upcoming NETGEAR Digital Entertainer Ñ consumers have the luxury of up to 200 Mbps speeds without interruption or complicated set-up. The NETGEAR Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter can also make large file transfers to networked storage devices like the NETGEAR Storage Central (SC101) up to 12 times faster than previous Powerline networking products. Its smart design also aptly blends into any home decor with ease, and does not take up any floor or desk space. Furthermore, the HDX101 easily co-exists with other Powerline technologies, so that consumers could use their existing, slower units for basic applications, and the HDX101 as an exclusive network loop for high-definition video and gaming.

Said Nicole Klein, an analyst with Boston-based technology consultancy Yankee Group, "The goal for next-generation home networking technology is two-fold: to offer speeds to support high-definition devices, and to ensure uninterrupted connectivity in wireless problem areas. With Powerline devices operating at 200 Mbps, consumers can stream voice, data, video and gaming throughout their homes at speeds to support their bandwidth-needy lifestyles."

NETGEAR's Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter is available now through leading retailers, e-commerce sites and value-added resellers. It's backed by a one-year warranty and 24/7 technical support. The Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter Kit (HDXB101) containing two devices has an MSRP of $249.99. For consumers needing to connect additional devices to the network, a single adapter (HDX101) is sold separately at an MSRP of $129.99. UK pricing will become available shortly.

www.netgear.co.uk