Tech Blog

Review: D-Link SharePort Wireless N300 Router (DIR-505)

by Blogger on ‎09-15-2012 03:01 PM

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The D-Link DIR-505 all-in-one mobile companion is effectively a WiFi router that can fit in your pocket. They call it a mobile companion presumably because if you’re very mobile and have internet access needs, this could be your new best friend always by your side. You likely haven’t really seen a router this compact so lets take a closer look.

This pocket router can be used in a trio of different modes; router, repeater, or hotspot. The router mode has you connect it directly to a modem  with a standard ethernet cable so that the DIR-505 works as a WiFi router as you’d expect, allowing all your wifi devices to connect. Business as usual. It's handy being able to take any internet-connected ethernet cable into your own personal wifi network., giving you some security and consistency.

When used in repeater mode the device connects to an existing wireless network and amplifies the signal, extending its reach. Think of it as a signal booster for your WiFi. Hotspot mode turns it into a consistent point of connection to any other wireless connection. That means that if you find a new wireless network you want to access, you can just have this device connect to it instead of telling all your other gadgets individually. Your gadgets will just connect to your own hotspot as if nothing has changed, saving you some work if you have multiple devices to connect.

 

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Setting it up is pretty quick and easy. You just plug it into an AC outlet, wait for the LED indicator to turn solid green, and you’re mostly ready to go. This unit even includes a flattened ethernet cable that rolls up easily, much more portable than the standard cable. That was an unexpected but welcome touch making it that much more convenient. This thing even has a USB drive onboard for easy data access. I’ve seen much larger and more expensive routers lacking this feature. D-Link provides a free android and iOS app to access the contents of your USB storage from mobile devices too.

Another nice touch is that you can use this USB port to charge your smartphone or tablet, making this device perfect for anyone travelling with a tablet. It makes it easy to charge your devices, and connect them online in situations where there is only wired internet available, like many hotel rooms.  

If you’re looking for a basic 802.11n wireless router and don’t mind forgoing ethernet ports this is a pretty good option. It's decent for small home use, and particularly good for anybody who travels, and finds themselves often using foreign networks on multiple WiFi devices.

 

 

SKU: 10213722

A must have for every tablet and smartphone owner, the SharePort Mobile Companion lets you stay connected while travelling with your mobile devices. Transforms any Internet connection into your own personal wireless network. In addition, SharePort offers USB sharing capabilities allowing you to share media from any USB drive to your mobile devices.


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