PePWave released a new model with built-in Signal Bars and other features today, says Alex Chan of PePWave. The LCD bar indicator allows the metro Wi-Fi subscribers to self-install the Wi-Fi modem easier. You don’t need to connect a computer before you can find a good position to locate the device.

Some wireless ISPs like the PePWave clients because they include the PePWave Central Management System (PCMS). It performs “wireless loopback tests” for testing and measuring RF parameters at the CPE level.PePWave has three consumer models, the Surf 200 ($169), Surf AP 200 ($189) and Surf AP 400 ($289). The later two have built-in APs (with 200 & 400mW radios).

The PePWave Surf AP uses dynamic power control, switching between the citywide Wi-Fi and the home AP. The Surf AP can use high power when communicating with the citywide Wi-Fi, and use a lower power setting for indoor home devices (home AP side).

The other improvements include the ability to “Stay connect” on the “home AP” side, independent to the status of the citywide Wi-Fi. If the citywide Wi-Fi connection is momentarily disconnected, the interruption will not affect the home device connections such as doing a file transfer between computers via the home AP.

Meraki’s small repeaters cost $50-$100 and are being used successfully by Net Equality in Portland, Oregon. It was reviewed in the NY Times.

DailyWireless has more on the Ruckus Repeater for MetroFi and Other MuniFi Solutions.

Posted by Sam Churchill on Tuesday, January 30th, 2007 at 12:17 pm.