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Wi-Fire long-range WiFi adapter gets updated Mac software
We didn't run into too many problems with the existing Mac software for the Wi-Fire WiFi range extender in our brief time with the device, but it looks like hField Technologies has decided to make Mac users' lives a bit easier nonetheless, with it now releasing an updated version for OS X. Among other things, version 2.0 now finally includes an icon that sits in the menu bar for easy access, and fully revamped connection manager that sports a decidedly more Apple-like appearance. Unfortunately, you'll still have to wait a bit for an 802.11n upgrade, but the software update is at least free, and available to download right now.
Wi-Fire long-range WiFi adapter hands-on and impressions
It's an age-old problem. What do you do when you're just barely out of range of a nearby WiFi signal, and moving closer really isn't a convenient option? hField Technologies has been solving said quandary for years with its continually revamped Wi-Fire, and we were fortunate enough to grab hold of the newest, third-generation version in order to put said company's claims to the test. Quite frankly, we were more than skeptical about this so-called range extender; let's face it, this thing has all the markings of an 'As Seen On TV' trinket that does little more than fantasize about delivering on its promises. Thankfully for all of the parties involved, we're happy to say that our doubts were hastily shelved. Read on for more.
hField Technologies intros revamped Wi-Fire long-range WiFi adapter
Evidently hField Technologies has a good thing going with this inelegant Wi-Fire thingamajig, as it has just followed up versions one and two with the latest and greatest third iteration. The revamped Wi-Fire, which is more formally known as the HFWFG200, is said to be some 40 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than the previous incarnation, yet it promises to maintain a solid WiFi signal while up to 1,000 feet away from the source. In one of those classic "two steps forward, three leaps back" moments, the company has added in support for Linux and OS X-based systems, though the device only works with 802.11b/g devices. In other words, you won't see 802.11n speeds out of this thing, and you'll still get looked at funny with it affixed atop your laptop's display. If you're willing to swap dignity for connectivity, you can get one headed your way today for $59.[Via HotHardware]
hField intros Vista-compatible Wi-Fire long-range WiFi adapter
It looks like Vista users jealous of their Mac and XP-based pals and their 1,000-foot range WiFire adapters can now finally get a range-extending fix of their own, as hField has just announced a Vista-friendly version of the device. What's more, the Wi-Fire is also now considerably cheaper than it was when it was first released last year, with it now setting you back just $79. It also now comes with some updated software for both XP and Vista, but otherwise appears to be the same 3 x 4 inch device as before, including support for 802.11b/g networks only and, of course, that aforementioned 1,000 foot range.
Wi-Fire extends wireless range to 1,000 feet
A new Pennsylvania-based startup, hField Technologies, has just gotten FCC approval for their new supercharged WiFi antenna, the Wi-Fire. The USB antenna boosts reception of faint WiFi signals, extending the range of existing networks up to 1,000 feet. hField's founders, recent Lehigh University graduates, had originally built the product for a student entrepeneurial challenge, and won first place, including the prize of $2,500. Earlier this summer, hField also recieved $25,000 of funding from a state-funded development organization, and the rest, as they say, is history (waiting to happen). The Wi-Fire is now on sale through hField directly for $150, though unfortunately without Mac support for now, it seems -- although if you have a Windows computer, it's guaranteed to put as big of a smile on your face as this girl's, though not nearly as big as these dudes'.
