GigaFast switch is a small wonder

We assumed there wasn't anything new to report in the world of 10/100M bit/sec switches. However, GigaFast EZ500-S proved us wrong. The new device is tiny and inexpensive, and its autouplink feature lets you connect a variety of devices using one cable.

The EZ500-S is a five-port 10/100 Ethernet switch that's smaller than most computer mice, and includes wall anchors for easy mounting. Our only complaint is that the power supply is larger than the device - its "brick on a leash" design plugs directly into the wall. We would prefer the power supply have a cord on each end so it could plug into a power strip.

Although the power supply is on the heavy side, a tiny switch like this could be invaluable to road warriors. Sales teams often need to have hectic presentation session in hotel rooms or any available space. The switch makes it easy for the team to hook up their computers and share the latest version of a presentation, sales figures and the like. Its rugged metal case will survive the abuse, and its low cost ($25 to $35) means misplacing the switch won't be a big deal.

Consultants who work on customer sites can use the switch to set up their own ad hoc network. Because every port can act as an automatic uplink port, you can connect a variety of devices using one cable.

In testing, we connected devices in every combination - switch to switch, PC to PC, PC to cable modem, to gateway router - using Category-5 and crossover cables, and everything worked. We even toggled the switch, and within a second, the EZ500-S recognized the change, reconfigured its port and restored the connection. Whether you manage a small office or work on the road, the EZ500-S deserves a place on your network.

Contact Reviews Editor Mike Avery

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