Actiontec Adds MU-MIMO Network Extenders To Wireless Lineup

Actiontec announced new additions to its network extender product line, the WEB6000Q and the WCB6200Q. According to Actiontec, these new MU-MIMO-ready devices are ideal for those who want a simple out-of-the-box solution that gives their home networks a performance boost (300 Mbps for 2.4 GHz and 1.7 Gbps for 5 GHz), as well as adding seamless setup options such as an auto sync feature for wireless router/gateway zero configuration.

Both devices will offer dual band radio support for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, and will come with 4x4 802.11ac antennas for 5 GHz support for the devices' multi-user MIMO functionality, and a 2x2 configuration for 2.4 GHz.

For those wondering why Actiontec would release two separate models, the WEB6000Q is designed to connect to an existing router or modem via Ethernet, whereas the WCB6200Q is designed to attach to coaxial wiring. The WCB6200Q features bonded MoCA 2.0 technology, which is backwards compatible with MoCA 1.0/1.1 and can support up to 16 devices.

For those interested in the nitty-gritty details of the products, the network extenders also utilize dual concurrent radios with support for up to 8 SSIDs (4 SSIDs per radio). According to Actiontec, although the antennas are internal, the entire board -- from the choice of heatsinks to the shape and configuration -- was designed around the antennas' placement to create a doughnut-shaped signal, giving a home blanket-like coverage.

Additional hardware listed for both devices include flash memory (128 MB), SDRAM (128 MB), and gigabit Ethernet ports (four on the WCB6000Q and two on the WCB6200Q).

The WEB6000Q and the WCB6200Q also feature dynamic TX power saving mode; Wi-Fi protected setup (WPS) security; remote management via TR-069, TR-106, TR-111 and TR-181 specifications; and beam forming.

The WCB6200Q network extender is available now on Actiontec's online store and will be available at other online retailers next month for $149.99. The WEB6000Q is expected to be released sometime next week at a lower price and will also be available at other online retailers next month, as well.

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