"I mean today setting up a network is still some kind of experience. You have to deal with Microsoft Windows or the Mac environment. You have to deal with setting up the configurations to talk to the DSL or cable line."
Patrick Lo, CEO of Netgear which is out with a new series of Platinum products designed to simplify the tasks... using on screen pictures to guide users through the installation process...
"Secondly, it also automatically tries to sense the DSL or the cable line so that it configure the network automatically for you."
Netgear isn't alone. Actiontec Electronics has designed new home networking kits for ease of use as well. Marketing director Lesley Kirchman says besides step by step illustrated instructions on a CD ROM...
"All of the cables and connections are all color coded. So instead of us telling you to plug it into an Ethernet port or plug it into the line jack, we'll instead tell you plug it into the yellow port or plug it into the black port."
Kirchman says even her mom was able to set up a home network using the kit. Pricing for a dual mode wireless ready cable DSL router... .is under a hundred dollars. It has taken a while, but companies are finally getting the message... .make this stuff easier. Bloomberg Boot Camp, I'm Fred Fishkin.