D-Link today unveiled a family of 3G mobile broadband wireless routers designed to make it even easier for on-the-go consumers, field technicians and mobile professionals to access and share an Internet connection virtually anywhere by blending Wi-Fi networking technology and a wireless broadband network.

By plugging a compatible 3G notebook adapter into the D-Link 3G Mobile Router's built-in card bus slot, users can get immediate access to EV-DO, UMTS or HSDPA networks. The D-Link router can then share this signal via 802.11g/b Wi-Fi technology to notebooks, PCs or other Wi-Fi-enabled devices. The D-Link routers are available in two versions: the DIR-450 (EV-DO) and DIR-451 (UMTS/HSDPA).

For security, both versions of the 3G mobile routers support the latest wireless security features to prevent unauthorized access, including WEP, WPA and WPA2 that ensure a secure Wi-Fi network regardless of the connected devices. They also employ dual active firewalls (SPI and NAT) to prevent potential Internet attacks.

The DIR-450 (EV-DO) is compatible with the Kyocera KPC 650, Novatel V620 and Sprint PC-5740 notebook adapters, and the Audiovox 8940, Kyocera KX18 and Samsung A890 cell phones. Compatible notebook adapters for the DIR-451 are the Novatel Wireless Merlin U530 and U730, Option Wireless GT 3G Quad, Sierra Wireless AirCard 860 and Sony Ericsson GC89.

Other Key Features:

• Built-in 10/100Mbps switch that allows users to connect up to four wired Ethernet-enabled networking devices. Auto MDIX detects use of crossover or straight cables.
• Integrated 802.11g access point (AP) for wireless LAN support.
• 16/32-bit PCMCIA slot WAN interface for mobile broadband connection. Hot insertion protection provided for safe adapter installation.
• Integrated 802.11b/g wireless access point with detachable antenna allows connection of booster antenna.
• Static and dynamic routing simplifies IP addressing on local network.
• Supports Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) for easy device discovery on local network.
• Integrated web interface allows configuration through PC web browser.
• Supports Network Time Protocol (NTP) for synchronizing with a real-time server to keep accurate time.

Without a mobile broadband connection data card, the DIR-450 and DIR-451 work as standard 802.11g wireless routers, such as the popular D-Link RangeBooster G models. The DIR-450 model of the D-Link Mobile Wireless Routers is available now for the suggested retail price of $299.99. The DIR-451 is targeted to begin shipping later this quarter with pricing to be announced at that time.