You may have heard about the VUDU media extender, a consumer set-top box that's simple to use and pumps on-demand video from a library of more than 5,000 titles straight to your TV. I've been using the VUDU wireless kit for several weeks now, and I must admit: It functions as seamlessly as its Ethernet experience does. In fact, I nearly forgot I was using the wireless kit, which left me impressed with how well it really works.
As I point out in my PC Magazine review, the VUDU system requires a high-speed broadband connection to function. With no built-in wireless capability, the initial options limit you to a clutter-prone Ethernet hookup or to having the hassle of setting up a wireless bridge. Not anymore, as the $80 kit is dead simple to install and requires no configuration, making setup a breeze for anyone.
The VUDU Wireless Kit comprises of two adapters. The first adapter plus directly to your home network via Ethernet and requires external power, while the second adapter plugs into the USB (for power) and Ethernet ports on the VUDU system. Once the VUDU box is powered, it automatically configures itself with the Wireless Kit, and that's it--no additional setup needed. The quality of performance is just as impressive. I watched roughly fifteen movies, and performance was spot on, with no lag or interrupts, as if it were attached by Ethernet.
Pricing isn't that hard to swallow; the kit sells for $80. Honestly, I expected it to cost upward of $100. New VUDU adopters should opt for the $350 package, because it comes with the VUDU box and wireless kit bundled together, saving you $30 (the VUDU box alone is $300).
For those who already own the VUDU system, the Wireless Kit is a viable solution that alleviates the ugly appearance of running cables, and works just as well as its plug in counterpart. For newbies considering wireless, the package deal is a no-brainer.
Post by Brian Neal
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