Greg Gerber posted on December 02, 2008 12:09
BURLINGTON, Iowa -- Winegard Company will debut its new TravelNet Wireless Internet system today at the RVIA National Trade Show in Louisville, Ky.
"RV customers have been looking for a wireless internet system that is fast, reliable and easy-to-use, and we're addressing those needs with our new TravelNet," said Aaron Engberg, director of mobile services, Winegard.
The TravelNet system uses existing cell phone data coverage offerings to deliver internet to the RV. While coverage and connection speeds vary by provider, the TravelNet system is far more reliable than Air Cards. Anytime, all-the-time internet access provides fast and reliable two-way wireless service. Since it's always on, you're always connected, even while traveling down the road, as compared to satellite internet systems that work only while parked. TravelNet is certified by the FCC and is GPS capable and also features two mall outdoor antennas that are merely 2.5 inches tall yet are capable of significantly increasing quality, speed, range and connections, all while requiring minimal roof space.
TravelNet is available in two different models -- internet only and an internet/phone combination. The internet model allows users to send/receive emails and pictures, check news and weather, surf the web, shop on-line and do business - everything you normally would do from you home computer with one exception: with TravelNet, you can do all this while parked or traveling down the road.
The internet version also offers a faster connectivity speed, higher connectivity rates of up to 90 percent (as opposed to 60-65 percent with air cards) and better range. A Wi-Fi router provides wireless hot-spot capabilities, supporting multiple laptops from up to a 50-yard radius. The internet version is supported by Sprint and Verizon.
The internet/phone option provides all the internet features of the internet only system plus it allows consumers to enjoy a dedicated 'RV Phone' that mimics a home phone, allowing the user to make or receive calls while traveling down the road. Simply add another number to your existing cell phone package as a family plan for minimal cost (rates vary by provider and package) and set up a regular phone anywhere within the RV. You'll enjoy the benefits with a home phone such as larger keys, which makes placing calls easier; a better speaker phone; the ability to have up to five extensions and any other option available with a regular phone. The internet and phone model is supported by AT&T, Sprint and Verizon.
"At Winegard, our continuing goal is to make the RV a true extension of the home, and with TravelNet, consumers will never have to give up any of their favorite conveniences when they're on the road," Engberg said.
SOURCE: Winegard press release