Linksys outs Linux-based media server Wireless-N router

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Have thing for Linux? Need a Wireless-N router that happens to work as a media server, too? Then Linksys has what you’re looking for, nerd. Say hello to the WRT160NL.

With two external R-SMA antenna connectors, the WRT160NL is a rather beefy router with a plethora of goodies. What could those other goodies be? How about support for read and write modes FAT16, FAT32 and NTFS? Perhaps the 400Mhz processor, 8GB of memory and 32MB of DDRAM will entice the media buff in you. There’s also a USB port and ability to stream content to UPnP AV digital media streamers. The WRT160NL is shipping now for $120.

Product Page

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Irvine, CA – June 23, 2009 – Cisco® today announced a new Linux powered router, the Linksys by Cisco Wireless-N Broadband Router with Storage Link (WRT160NL). The new model complements the existing Linksys by Cisco consumer router line-up and is essentially the next generation of the popular WRT54GL. The design of the product is similar to other Linksys by Cisco N-routers, but has integrated connectors for external antennae. Consumers that prefer external aerials can now enjoy the new Linksys by Cisco router design because of the integrated R-SMA antenna connectors. The integrated Storage Link functionality lets consumers connect their USB storage device to the router to create a powerful media sharing solution that enables video, photo and music sharing through the integrated media server.

Facts/Highlights:
– The Storage Link port lets users connect USB storage devices to the router. Music, video, or data files can be made available in the network through the built-in media server. The media server can stream to PCs or UPnP AV digital media adapters. The integrated Storage Link port supports FAT16, FAT32 and NTFS file systems in both read and write mode.
– Although most Linksys by Cisco router feature internal antennae the WRT160NL has external antennae. The two R-SMA antenna connectors are designed to allow tech savvy users to be more flexible in their antennae choice and placement.
– The new Linksys by Cisco product packaging provides more than 40% reduction in waste materials compared to the previously offered packaging. The size of the boxes is reduced, internal packaging is transitioning to more recyclable material, the use of plastic bags is being eliminated where possible and all packaging and internal documents are printed on paper that is made from 80% recycled content and vegetable and soy inks are being used.
– The Wireless-N Broadband Router with Storage Link is shipped with Linksys EasyLink Advisor (LELA). LELA helps consumers to get their network up and running and helps keep their network updated and secure. The included set-up CD is compatible with both Macintosh and Windows computers.

System specifications:
– Linux powered
– 802.11n draft 2.0 certified
– 400Mhz processor
– 8 Megabytes Flash memory
– 32 Megabytes DDRAM
– Storage Link port (USB 2.0)
– UPnP AV media server
– Wi-Fi protected Setup pushbutton security
– 2 x R-SMA antennae connectors

Supporting Quote:
“In the past we have had many successful Linux powered devices with the WRT54GL and NSLU2 being great examples. The WRT160NL is the logical next step combining Linux, 802.11n technology and USB storage functionality. We see the WRT160NL as a possible successor of our WRT54GL as the market transitions to 802.11n – but then with storage functionality on top of that,” said Aaron Marinari, senior product manager, Cisco Consumer Business Group.

Pricing
The Linksys by Cisco Wireless-N Broadband Router with Storage Link is available from authorized Linksys by Cisco retailers, resellers, and VAR partners. MSRP: $119.99.