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Nintendo to release Ethernet Kit

by Jason Wishnov on Oct 4th 2006 6:51PM

The Wii is gloriously Wi-Fi enabled right out of the box, a lovely addition to the console. But, alas, not all of us are high tech money-throwers with advanced router setups in our third floor libraries. Well, we are (though it's in the fourth floor media-viewing room), but for everyone else, Nintendo has announced an Ethernet kit that will (presumably) take a standard ethernet cord and run it through one of the two USB slots on the back of the console.

Another option is the Nintendo Wi-Fi USB dongle, an option made available for DS users without a router. However, the limited availability and relatively high price have been a bit of a barrier, so it's nice to see that Nintendo is offering a hardwired option. Plus, wired speeds and connection stability are still generally superior to any wireless network, so some of us you rich boys might want to pick one up regardless.

[Thanks, Probot!]

Source

Tags: Adaptor, Connectivity, Cord, Dongle, Ethernet, Internet, USB, Wi-Fi, Wireless

Reader Comments (22)

Great news. I have the WiFi Connector (yeah, a bit expensive, but I needed it and its a good device), so I'm set, but being where my system is from the computer, and that my PC isn't always on (but my modem is), this is a nice thing that could come in handy. Also, it further supports casual users who don't have the more expensive WiFi.

Still, how much is it, or is it included? I need details baby!

You can pay whatever you want for a Wifi Router this day and age. I've seen 'em at Fry's for $10.

These days, I really can't see how laying cable across the house is easier, cheaper and more elegant than just going wireless.

Unless you're absolutely stubborn.

wait,could someone explain to me what would be required to connect to wifiwith the wii?(sorry for the n00b question)

@ pj_rizzl

For basic setup
1) Buy wireless router (a decent one runs for USD$30 - $50)
2) Plug it in to the wall outlet
3) Plug in your internet cable
done

of course, if you have any computers connected to the wireless signal, basic levels of security/encryption should be turned on. Most routers come with a step-by-step guide on how to enable WEP and WPA protection.

After that, the Wii will likely auto-detect and auto-configure. If any setup is needed for the Wii, Nintendo is sure to make it a piece of cake.

So, wait: Is this saying that the Wii will be able to connect to the DS's USB WiFi-type-deal? If so, then I'm very relieved.

As pointed out, many people do not have wireless networks, and do not want to set one up. Or, in a young teenagers case such as mine, do not have the money.

So then you might think "Well, you can just buy a cheap ethernet cable and connect that to your router." Err, I do not want an ethernet cable running up the stairs and all the way through the house. And no, I'm not even going to start drilling holes in my walls anytime soon.

So the Wifi USB dongle is basically a must.. for me.

My wireless router was $3 canadian.
Does it work as good as a $50 one?
You bet your ass it does!
It just doesn't reach to my neighbours house: which is a good thing.

@ vidguy,does the internet cable come with the router?

if not,where can I get it and how much does it cost?

I know $60 isn't a nice number to look at, but that's what I spent for my Wireless router. My computer and where my Wii will be are in rooms on opposite sides of the house. I'm not running a cable through there. Really, when you do have a router, it isn't that hard to set up, and most cost just as much as the USB connector, so it really isn't that hard to do.

My DS's connection to the internet is just fine in that same room, so I'm sure the Wii will have no problems with it.

also (sorry)

where and what should I plug the cable into.

and what features will wifi be required for the wii?

The Wi-Fi USB dongle thing works good except you have to have the pc on and the program running to use it. Guess i'll have to leave my pc on all night to get those surprise overnight downloads Nintendo was talking about. 8(

#6

If you already have a modem hooked up to your computer, then you're set. Every single router I know of comes with an ethernet cable so you can at least hook it up to the computer you're already using it on.

If not, then you can find ethernet cables at just about every electronics store out there.

I think they said 802.11b/g is what it can do. All wirless routers that you can commercially buy today have 802.11b as standard, but try to get 802.11g, since it's alot faster.

The internet cable I refer to is the incoming internet connection. If you have cable internet, you would need a Cat5 Ethernet cable (usually blue or gray) that would go from the cable modem into the wireless router. Same thing goes for DSL; you need a Cat5 cable from the DSL modem to the wireless router. Other methods of internet will have different setups.

A Cat5 cable has ends that look like a wider version of a telephone jack. Most wireless routers come with a 5' cable. If they don't you can pick one up for $5 at a store or probably $1 online.

The point is, wireless is easier and a lot cheaper than most think. The disadvantages are less security compared to wired methods (but this can be easily fixed) and a slower transmission speed (but it isn't a problem in practice).

is it included with the console? , if it isnt then is stupid.

So can you give me a shopping list if i say,have nothing?(I have DSL internet and a modem)

also,couldn't I just buy one of those USB LAN signal thingies and that be it?

Ha, this sounds like PS2 all over again with the USB -> Enet adapter and all..

Bunch of guys at work wanted to play Madden when the online started happin but they didnt want to buy the HDD adapter just for that reason.. So they found that some brands of USB-> Enet adapters workd

I myself would go this route over wireless if the wireless ends up laggy like my 360 (which Ive gone to wired, also will got wired with the PS3..) I use a Moto Cable modem with built in WiFi and 4 port router.

WiFi can be soo laggy when it comes to gaming that I feel that they(console cos) shouldnt leave out Enet as a Standard..

but thats just me..

Not to mention Hardlining your console will offer a greter speed at downloads and loading wii fanboy from the opera browser... yeah i

To be completely honest, that information was on the Wii.com for ages (well, since it's launch).

Some of us are stuck with RF environments that are extremely WiFi hostile. Having WiFi as the sole means of getting online with the Wii would translate to no online usage at all. For me the price of this adapter could be a factor in how soon I see fit to become a Wii owner. If it's too high I can bide my time until the Wii itself sees a price reduction.

I use Homeplug standard powerline adapters to distribute my broadband throughout my house. They work beautifully, have no software setup since they're just bridges, and have been highly satisfactory.

Will this kit be expenisive?

So, here's my situation:

I have a hole in the wall made for plugging in a modem cable.
But, I don't have a computer.

Can someone please answer me, do I need a computer to connect
the Wii online?

how long is this cable?

Breaking News

Nintendo to release Ethernet Kit

Reader Comments (22)

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:03PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:24PM mykie said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:33PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:39PM vidguy said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:39PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 9:57PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:54PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:55PM MrD1718 said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:56PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:58PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 7:59PM MrD1718 said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 8:04PM MrD1718 said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 8:05PM vidguy said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 8:15PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 8:22PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 9:42PM 7r1ck13 said

Posted: Oct 4th 2006 9:50PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 5th 2006 1:41AM liketoprocrastinate said

Posted: Oct 5th 2006 4:40AM epobirs said

Posted: Oct 5th 2006 3:02PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 5th 2006 3:35PM (Unverified) said

Posted: Oct 5th 2006 9:45PM (Unverified) said

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