January 14, 2006 Belkin's new CableFree USB Hub is the first USB Hub that does not require a cable to connect to the computer. This Hub allows people to place their laptop anywhere in the room while still maintaining wireless access to their USB devices, such as printers, scanners, hard drives, and MP3 players. This is the first UWB-enabled product to be introduced in the U.S. market.
Beginning in early spring 2006, Belkin will offer a four-port hub that will enable immediate high-speed wireless connectivity for any USB device without requiring software. The CableFree USB Hub gives desktop computer users the freedom to place their USB devices anywhere in the room without running long cables. Laptop users gain the freedom to roam wirelessly with their laptop around the room while still maintaining access to their stationary USB devices.
Belkin's CableFree USB product will be compatible with the more than 700 million USB devices estimated to be in the market today. Indeed, according to market research firm In-Stat, the number of USB devices is forecast to increase to 2.1 billion in 2009.
"We have always focused on ease of use when developing our products," comments Mark Reynoso, Sr. VP of Sales and Marketing for Belkin. "With the proliferation of USB devices and the increasing demand for wireless functionality, it's important that we not only continue to bring innovative wireless products to the marketplace, but also to bolster them with easy installation. With CableFree USB, you can now get the ease of USB without wires."
The CableFree USB Hub's wireless functionality is enabled by Freescale Semiconductor's Ultra-Wideband technology.
"These CableFree USB products represent innovative technology, but, more importantly, will extend the capabilities of millions of USB products," says Martin Rofheart, Director of the UWB Operation at Freescale. "With the convenience of Belkin's Plug-and-Play solution, consumers will not be burdened by software upgrades in order to achieve wireless functionality for their USB devices. Indeed, Belkin is taking a leadership role in bringing true wireless USB to the market, and we are thrilled to work with them on this initiative."
About Ultra-Wideband Technology
Freescale's UWB solutions enable high rate transfer of video, audio, and data streams wirelessly. At rates 100 times faster than Bluetooth technology and with wire-like quality, UWB brings a new wireless option to auto, consumer electronics, and PC/peripheral manufacturers. Using UWB, for example, an MPEG2 movie or HDTV stream can be broadcast in real time wirelessly. This allows consumers new freedom in the use of multimedia-centric products, as they no longer need to be connected with wires.