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December 28, 2007 MetroFi "Extend Program" to Promote Awareness and Adoption of Muni Wi-Fi Devices Mountain View, CA; Friday, December 28, 2007: MetroFi, Inc. today announced the launch of a new program, “MetroFi Extend,” to increase awareness and use of Wi-Fi devices that optimize connectivity to the MetroFi network. The program currently includes MetroFi qualification and promotion of portable/USB and indoor Wi-Fi devices, as well as discounts for MetroFi users on selected devices from metro wireless equipment and services provider ExpressNets, Inc. “To support MetroFi network users having the best online experience possible, this program presents more options and better pricing for those who need to enhance their connection speed and quality,” says MetroFi President and CEO, Chuck Haas. “The program expands our Wi-Fi device education efforts for greater end user satisfaction.” There are numerous factors that affect a municipal Wi-Fi network user’s connection experience including: the internal Wi-Fi modem on a user’s computer; the user’s distance from an outdoor access point; and physical obstructions to the Wi-Fi signal. Municipal Wi-Fi is a high-powered technology that uses radio waves to transmit data, and many computers on the market today aren’t equipped to optimally communicate back to a municipal network’s outdoor access points. External Wi-Fi modems and devices can improve signal strength and quality of the connection, and there are now a variety of low-priced options available, whether the user is on-the-go outdoors, or surfing from a fixed indoor location. MetroFi Extend helps MetroFi network users identify the best device for their particular need and situation. In addition to the Ruckus MetroFlex 2211 SZ-ST which MetroFi has recommended for its networks since spring 2007, MetroFi is expanding the line of recommended devices to include the following three portable/USB devices: · ExpressNets USB (EXP-USB-200) – a high power USB adapter with an external antenna and a power output of 200 milliwatts; provides connectivity to outdoor access points up to 1,000 feet away; · Linksys Wireless-G USB Network Adapter (WUSB54G) – a lower power USB 2.0 adapter with an external antenna and a power output of 49 milliwatts; enables a connection between a laptop and the MetroFi network up to 800 feet outdoors; · Trendnet USB 2.0 Adapter (TEW-424UB) – a low-cost, compact USB adapter; takes the connection from the laptops built-in 400 foot limit to the Trendnet’s range of approximately 550 feet. As part of the program launch, ExpressNets, Inc. is supporting the “MetroFi Extend” program by offering MetroFi network users an exclusive price of $49.95 on their its USB 200 device (EXP-USB-200), as well as on other products by entering MetroFi under coupon code at Checkout. Visit www.expressnets.com. MetroFi has reviewed the performance of these devices on its network. Performance criteria measured included connection speed, ease of installation and use, and other characteristics that impact user experience. MetroFi will promote these devices on its network and websites, in its advertising and marketing materials, and at various industry and customer events. While MetroFi benefits from its network users’ adoption of the devices, it does not sell or profit from their sale, and instead collaborates with retailers, such as ExpressNets, to decrease equipment costs for consumers. “ExpressNets is a strong MetroFi partner and we appreciate their collaboration with us on this program,” says MetroFi Vice President of Marketing, Lou Pelosi. “They continue to offer products and services that make using MetroFi-Free better, faster and a more enjoyable experience in the communities we serve.” To learn more about MetroFi networks and services, please visit www.MetroFi.com. # # # About MetroFi, Inc. Headquartered in Mountain View, California, MetroFi, Inc. designs, builds, owns and operates municipal wireless broadband networks for local government employees, residents, businesses and visitors in the communities it serves. MetroFi’s mixed-use wireless broadband networks support public safety, government efficiency and municipal cost savings, while delivering free, advertiser-supported Wi-Fi to the public. Founded in 2002 by experienced broadband networking executives, MetroFi has become the leading service provider in its industry, with network agreements in nearly a dozen, forward-looking U.S. cities, including those in: California (Concord, Cupertino, Foster City, downtown San Jose, Santa Clara, and Sunnyvale); Illinois (Aurora and Naperville); and Oregon (Portland). For more information, please visit www.MetroFi.com. About ExpressNets, Inc. ExpressNets® is a Microsoft® Gold Certified Partner, Microsoft ® OEM Partner, Microsoft Small Business Specialist, Cisco® Systems Reseller, Hewlett Packard ® Reseller and Solution Provider, Intel® Product Dealer, Intel® Innovative Technology Provider, and a member of the Intel® Communications Alliance. ExpressNets provides quality custom-configured notebooks, Wi-Fi devices, multimedia products, business class servers, as well as service and support options. Media Contact: Leo Wandling, 650-964-4569, leo@expressnets.com « back to press releases list Press Release Archive: 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | View All |










