Actiontec First Plug & Play Router for Dual Mobile/WiFi Phones

With the prevalence of Dual Mobile/WiFi Phones in the market now from mobile players like Nokia, Asus, Eten, Dopod, etc, making less expensive Internet-based calls at home automatically will be easier with the new Actiontec First Plug & Play Router for Dual Mobile/WiFi Phones.

The Actiontec Wireless FMC (Fixed Mobile Convergence) Router facilitates call switching between the mobile and home WiFi networks as users move in and out of the house, leveraging the ability of dual mode phones to deliver cellular coverage on the road, less expensive Internet-based calls at home, and a WiFi-based connection for phone use in homes with weak cellular signals.

Offering support for service from all major carriers as well as first-in-class plug-and-play setup, the new Actiontec device combines an 802.11n access point and four-port Ethernet router with software that acts as a middleman between the broadband and cellular networks. At home, the unit automatically establishes a WiFi network connection for any incoming or outgoing call. If the user enters or leaves the home while on the phone, the router connects or disconnects from the WiFi conversation as needed, routes the call to the mobile network if appropriate, and allows the phone to make the switch without disconnecting the call.

When attached to another router, access point or Cable/DSL modem, the Actiontec product automatically detects the other device and extracts the necessary settings for pain-free installation. If it is connected to another router, for example, it turns itself into a switch. If it is connected to a DSL modem, it automatically populates itself with the settings and passwords originally used for modem setup. If it is attached to another wireless router, it configures itself with a unique SSID (Service Set Identifier) and will channel hop to avoid signal interference.

Alternatively, the Actiontec device can replace an existing router as a standalone broadband connectivity solution with built-in support for hybrid phone operation. It also significantly enhances the quadruple play offering of major mobile and broadband service providers. The Actiontec Wireless FMC Router comes out in the second quarter for an MSRP of $179.99.