The Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter is your robust and reliable companion for connecting to Xbox LIVE.  Perform effortless streaming of High-Definition Videos or download complete games or other Multi-media content from Xbox LIVE Marketplace.

 

Xbox 360 meets High-speed Wireless Network

 

With the Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter, you can now experience full quality multi-media content from Xbox LIVE Marketplace. Stream or download complete HD videos in full 1080p and 5.1 surround sound.  Enjoy the latest music albums before they hit the stores.  Experience multi-player gaming with your friends.  Explore on-line gaming with other Xbox 360 players from all-over the world.  The Wireless N technology brings lag-free network gaming for your Xbox 360 platform.

 

Convenient Wireless N Connection

 

Before this Wireless N Adapter became available, you can only connect your Xbox 360 to a Wireless G Network using the older Wi-Fi adapter.  You can also use the Ethernet port for a wire network if you do the cabling.  But, purchasing a special Ethernet-to-Wireless N bridge can also help if you’re really that desperate.  With an Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter, connecting your Xbox 360 to a Wireless N Network is now easier than ever. 

 

Neat Attachment

 

This 802.11n Xbox 360 adapter snugly fits the back of your console and interfaces through a USB port.  The short USB cord is perfect for this simple arrangement.  If you need to re-position the Wi-Fi adapter elsewhere, you will need to use a separate USB 2.0 extension cable.  You should do this if connection is impaired by the console’s distance or location relative to your  wireless router.

 

Designed for the Wireless Jungle

 

This specially designed wireless N adapter is well suited for huge spaces or multiple rooms.  It was also built to minimize interference to and from other wireless devices that you already have.  This adapter can thrive even in saturated wireless environments with multiple wireless networks and devices. 

 

Compact Design

 

The Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter is the latest wireless adapter exclusively designed for your Xbox 360.  The compact design seamlessly fits the rear of the console for clutterless operation.  This latest design features maximum compatibility to existing A/B/G/N networks. 

 

The Wireless N / 802.11n Standard

 

The new Wireless N Specification ensures connection speeds of up to 7x faster compared to Wireless G standard.  This new Specification extends connection range of up to 2x wider compared to the older Wireless G.  Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) is natively supported for security against intruders.  Dual Band Support for 5GHz and 2.4GHz with Full-Duplex capability maintains signal integrity.  The 2 external antennas and off-board placement feature with a USB extension cable allow you to position the device for maximum signal reception.

 

Xbox 360 On-line: Quick and Easy

 

Getting your Xbox 360 on-line using this Wi-Fi adapter is very simple to do.  The software drivers are available in the software disc included.  You do not need the drivers if your console was previously connected to the internet after October 28, 2009 and has updated system files.  If otherwise, un-plug the Wi-Fi adapter and the network cable before inserting the disc.  Turn-off and restart the console.  Installation is automatic, just follow the on-screen instructions when directed.  After installation, attach the Wi-Fi adapter (with the antennas) to the back of the console.  Plug-in the USB connector of the adapter to the USB slot of the console.  Remove the disc and restart the unit.  You will later be prompted to scan for wireless networks and later given a list of found ones.  Choose the Wi-Fi network that you want and enter the required network encryption keys to start connecting to Xbox LIVE.

 

The Good:

 

Signal Range: works great even when distanced from the wireless router/access point

Signal Strength: strong wireless signal despite some barriers

Connection Speed: excellent at downloading high capacity content via wireless N specification

Physical Installation: attaches snugly at the back of the console, easy USB plug

Software Installation: easy to install drivers, may not be needed if console is updated before

Compatibility: exclusively designed for an Xbox 360 console

Form Factor: neat and compact size and design

Aesthetics: elegant black color and cute stubby antennas

Accessories: can be extended using a separate USB 2.0 extension cable

Price: expensively priced at $100

 

The Bad:

 

Signal Range: can be affected by physical barriers such as walls, ceilings, furniture, etc.

Signal Strength: can be affected by physical barriers such as walls, ceilings, furniture, etc.

Connection Speed: depends greatly on the Signal Strength

Physical Installation: stand for independent and distant operation is not included

Software Installation: (none)

Compatibility: only wireless adapters designed by Microsoft for Xbox 360 can be used

Form Factor: antennas have limited freedom of movement and can be broken when forced

Aesthetics: comes only in one color – black main body and grey antennas

Accessories: USB 2.0 extension cable is not included in the package

Price: costs ($99) half of an Xbox 360 Arcade Edition ($199)

 

The Verdict:

The wireless networking performance of the Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter is highly commendable and lives up to its claims.  It is well suited for a gaming platform and delivers high volume multi-media content on your Xbox 360.  The only major downside is the hefty price tag that comes with it.

After considering the benefits and the trade-offs, this wireless adapter is only recommended if:

1. you have a compatible and certified Wireless N Router,
2. you have a high-speed internet connection of more than 54Mb/s or 6.5MB/s (ideally 600Mb/s or 75MB/s),
3. you really want wireless internet connection for your Xbox 360 and
4. you really want seamless high-capacity content delivered right into your Xbox 360 machine. 

Otherwise, the existing Ethernet port at the back of your console can deliver the same multi-media content through a connection speed of 100Mb/s or 12,5MB/s.  Just use Ethernet cabling and upgrade your low internet bandwidth.

Tags: games, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox 360 wireless N

Tags: games, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox 360 wireless N

This entry was posted on Monday, February 1st, 2010 at 7:19 am and is filed under Reviews, and is tagged with games, Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox 360 wireless N. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.