IRVINE, Calif. (Map) - IRVINE, Calif., June 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Cisco(R) 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.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090623/LA36674)

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.

Internet Resources:

-- Product Web page - http://www.linksysbycisco.com/US/en/products/WRT160NL -- Information about the ENERGY STAR organization - http://www.energystar.gov/ -- Podcast with Cisco's Ned Hooper discussing the company's Consumer strategy -- Read Cisco's news feature on the media-enabled home. -- Learn more about consumer products for a media-enabled home at www.linksysbycisco.com and www.linksysbycisco.com/forums. -- Become a Facebook fan of Cisco "LinksysbyCisco" and "Digital Cribs" and invite your friends to join the conversation. -- Engage with us on our blog site at http://blogs.cisco.com/consumer

-- Twitter id is DigitalCribs

Technorati Tags: Cisco, Linksys by Cisco, Wireless Router, Wireless-N, 802.11n, Router, Linux, Consumer, Media Enabled Home, WiFi, wireless, multimedia, Storage Link, entertainment, streaming, Internet.

About Cisco Systems

Cisco (Nasdaq: CSCO) is the worldwide leader in networking that transforms how people connect, communicate and collaborate. Cisco's vision for the consumer is to enable people to live a connected life that is more personal, more social, and more visual. More information about Cisco and its line of consumer products can be found at www.linksysbycisco.com and www.cisco.com/consumer.

Cisco, the Cisco logo, Linksys by Cisco and Cisco Systems are registered trademarks or trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and certain other countries. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company. This document is Cisco Public Information.

The maximum performance for wireless is derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Actual performance can vary, including lower wireless network capacity, data throughput rate, range and coverage. Performance depends on many factors, conditions and variables, including distance from the access point, volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, operating system used, mix of wireless products used, interference and other adverse conditions.