Trendnet TEW-654TR Travel Router
| Article Index |
|---|
| Trendnet TEW-654TR Travel Router |
| Closer Look, Features and Specs |
| TEW-654TR Web Interface |
| Network Performance and Final Thoughts |
Product: Trendnet TEW-654TR Travel Router
Provided By: Trendnet
Price: Find Lowest Price Online
Introduction:
When it comes to networking, Trendnet doesn't typically pop into your mind as a first choice. Home networking typically belongs to D-Link or Linksys and often we think that Trendnet products are low quality alternatives for those that can't afford a "real" network. Part of this idea stems from the extreme value line of Trendnet products and the way they are marketed at retailers. I've often seen a Trendnet Wireless G router bundled with a pair of wireless G USB adapters for under $50. For that price one immediately thinks that the product must be inferior. In the past I've setup a few networks using Trendnet products and to be honest, it was pretty much the same as any other router. The web interface on these older products wasn't very polished and after each setting change, you had to reboot.
Trendnet has some very innovative products that are worth looking at however. We have reviewed the TEW-672GR Dual Band N Gigabit router in the past that proved to be very high on features. Performance wasn't top notch, but it was a much more affordable solution that other companies. Today we are looking at a "Travel Router" and this unit is ideal for several scenarios that we'll touch on in the review.
Initial Bundle
Like other non-travel routers, this unit supports port forwarding, SPI firewall, Access Control and all of the other features you've come to expect from a router. It only has a single port on it however, and that is what makes it unique - that and the small size.
First Look:
When I first received the TEW-654TR, I never thought too much about it and as things were very busy here at BCCHardware.com, I actually left it unopened for about a week. When I did open the ordinary looking box, I discovered a CD, Quick Install Guide, and a zippered case that holds the router.
 In The Case |
 Bundle |
In the case Trendnet has included the very small router, an Ethernet cable, USB cable for powering the device as well as a AC to DC wall plug as well. I was quite surprised to see the USB cord although this could come in very handy in some place like an airport.
The design and look of this router is quite minimalistic, and it just goes to show that you don't need a large unit to get the job done - as long as you're connecting to it wirelessly. You can see what few features there are on the back in the picture below and to the right - a Power port, Ethernet port as well as WPS and Reset buttons.
On the front of the unit are three LED lights that indicate power, LAN status and WLAN status.
On the next page we'll take a closer look at the TEW-654TR as well as the features and specifications.
