SMC Networks is looking to make hotspot deployment a
no-brainer for businesses with the EliteConnect Wireless Hotspot Gateway, model
# SMCWHSG14-G. The $899 device comes in kit form, which includes a receipt
printer and a combo Ethernet switch/wireless access point that incorporates all
of the firmware to build a hot spot.
Released on Sept. 2, SMC’s product couldn’t come
at a better time—when small businesses are finding it more and more important
to offer their customers a hot spot. Traditionally, hot spots have been found
primarily in the hospitality and restaurant markets, where customers have come
to expect free Internet access.
By reducing the expense and complexity of hot-spot
deployments, SMC begs to ask, "Why not put hot spots in every
business"? And it hopes that will become the rallying call for partners to
build a market that could prove to be vast and profitable. After all, anywhere
a customer or client has to wait for more than a few minutes, such as the
waiting room or a repair shop, is a good spot for a Hotspot.
