CES 2016 – TP-Link Shows Off 60GHz 802.11ad Wi-Fi, Touchscreen Routers

TP-Link is to release the world’s first 802.11ad Wi-Fi router later this year, alongside a touchscreen-based home router designed to make it easier to connect smart home devices.

The Talon AD7200 uses frequencies in the 60GHz band capable of delivering 4.6Gbps connections, and when combined with existing 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies, can provide users with 7Gbps speeds, so long as they have a fast enough broadband connection.

TP-Link routers

The router has eight antennas to ensure a reliable signal for smartphones, tablets and other devices, with beamforming technology capable of sending dedicated bandwidth to a specified system. The access point also has two USB 3.0 slots for the sharing of files across a network as well as standard features like guest access and parental controls.

The Internet of Things (IoT)-centric SR20 Smart Home Router boasts a 4.3-inch touchscreen which can control connected devices, such as smart meters, lights, security cameras and plugs, and to automate functions.

For example, when someone enters the house, the router could set a certain temperature and turn the lights on. The same thing can be done with a companion smartphone application, which can also receive notifications if there is a problem with the house, such as a water leak or if the lights have been left switched on.

TP-Link has also released a number of devices to work with the router, but with the inclusion of various communication standards, such as Zigbee, Z-Wave and, of course, Wi-Fi, the company says equipment from other manufacturers is supported.

Earlier this year, TP-Link manufactured the first in what Google hopes will become a range of simplified, aesthetically pleasing routers. OnHub automatically detects the best channel during setup and automatically switches if it finds interference so the Wi-Fi network operates at “peak performance.”

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