IOGEAR has introduced two new wireless products at the annual International CES. Just one year after unveiling the wireless 5×2 HD matrix, IOGEAR has taken its innovation further with the Long Range Wireless 5×2 HD Matrix Pro. Ready for consumer, business, and custom installations, the new matrix has up to 200 feet of range, which is longer than its predecessor, and new multicast capabilities that can send the same content to as many as four wireless receivers. In addition, IOGEAR has introduced near field communication (NFC) into its capabilities with the Bluetooth with NFC Audio Receiver to link mobile devices to home audio systems.
Long Range Wireless 5×2 HD Matrix Pro
The Long Range Wireless 5×2 HD Matrix Pro (MSRP: $699) can send fully uncompressed HD 1080p content up to 200 feet through standard home walls from up to five sources (digital and analog). With additional Wireless HD Matrix Receivers, the same content can be sent to five locations (four wireless). Pre-configured kits, available from IOGEAR, can support two, three, and four wireless HD video streams. This capability allows individuals or business owners to customize the audiovisual experiences that meet their needs, including a professional office with multiple TV screens or unique public displays in a restaurant for the big game.
The matrix helps keep rooms clear of wire clutter by allowing the cable box, game console, or media server to be tucked away and accessed wirelessly. For users, this also saves the cost and space of multiple devices in separate rooms, such as a dentist’s office, with different content playing in a lobby and a patient’s room. Designed to meet the needs of casual users and businesses alike, the matrix supports HD 1080p, 3D content, and 5.1 channel digital audio.
Bluetooth with NFC Audio Receiver
IOGEAR’s newest wireless capabilities take advantage of near field communication technology with the Bluetooth with NFC Audio Receiver (MSRP: $49.95). Consumers can wirelessly connect an Android smartphone or tablet enabled for NFC to a stereo or home audio receiver music system with a simple tap against the provided receiver. Other phones, tablets, or laptops also can be connected through standard Bluetooth pairing processes.
Connecting to the receiver introduces surround sound through the home theater or speakers. A college student could use a small set of box speakers to fill the room with music from the phone, and then switch to a friend’s phone content with a tap of the receiver. A living room wired for speakers can stream wireless audio for family and friend get-togethers, parties, and events, as well as the enhanced movie-watching experience on a tablet.
Home theaters/audio video receivers are connected through an optical or 3.5 mm output (2.1 audio). No drivers or applications are required and up to eight devices can be paired at once, in a first come, first served manner. If a call comes in while connected, broadcasting stops to remain private.
The Bluetooth with NFC Audio Receiver will be available this spring, while the Long Range Wireless 5×2 HD Matrix Pro will be available later this year at www.iogear.com and through major distribution channels.
