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As you build a wireless home network, remember this principle: You should be able to access your data anywhere, anytime.

To get the most out of your network, we advises that you begin with a high quality router.

A Speedy Hub

The newest routers are based on the 802.11n wireless standard, a new technology that is 10 times faster than the 802.11g standard.
The Belkin N1 Wireless-N Router employs MIMO (Multiple Input/Multiple Output) technology, as much as three antennas, good to improve speed and increase coverage throughout your home. You can theoretically transfer data as quickly as 300Mbps with this router, though you won’t reach that speed when using the Wireless-N for streaming high-definition video or multiplayer gaming.

The D-Link Xtreme N Gigabit router has four gigabit Ethernet ports, which noticeably speed up data transfer. Like other 802.11n-compliant routers, it doesn’t require range extenders or boosters, so you need not worry that the router will work better in certain places in your house than in others.

With three transmitters and three receivers, the Xtreme N is so powerful that it needs a Good Neighbor mode. The router can detect if your neighbor is using his wireless network and will power down a bit so as not to interfere with it.

Apple makes the AirPort Extreme Wireless N Base Station for Macs and PCs running Windows XP SP2. Like the other routers, it uses MIMO, 802.11n-compliant technology. It also has a USB port for connecting an external hard drive or printer, supports up to 50 computers, and has a time-based access feature that you can use to limit your kids’ access to the network during certain times of day.

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When summer rolls around, our thoughts turn to lazy days at the beach or pool, stomach-churning rides on amusement park roller coasters, and weekend camping trips to a state park. However, kids must have a way to keep in touch with their parents or chaperones when on these outings.

Cell phones, as convenient as they are, aren’t necessarily the answer. For one thing, their network may not extend to the places you or your kids like to go. You may also not want to pay monthly fees for cell phone service for your kids or even grant them the privilege of having a phone. Under these circumstances, a better option might be two-way radios.

These radios offer kids and adults the security of instant communication and ease of use.

A number of manufacturers make two-way radios, including Cobra, Insignia, Midland, and Motorola. the Midland LXT420VP3 and the Motorola Talkabout T5500R to give you an idea of how two-way radios work. Two radios are included in each set.

Both sets work on two types of wireless channels: FRS (Family Radio Service) and GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service).

Anyone can communicate on FRS channels free, but talking on GMRS channels requires an FCC license. The Midland radio set is rugged and water resistant. The radios can communicate up to 16 miles apart (depending on the terrain). With the included belt clips and voice activation feature, you can use the radios hands-free. In addition, you can get updates from a channel that dispenses weather information 24/7, and a backlight lets you see the display easily at night.

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