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PHILEX SUPERWAND AV TRANSMITTER/ RECEIVER SYSTEM
REVIEW IN WHAT VIDEO & TV JANUARY 2003
BEST BUY - 5 OUT OF 5
SuperWand is a wireless TV signal sender and a transmitter/receiver system that beams video and audio from a source with a Scart output to a TV in another location. It has a range of up to 100m, making it perfect for people who want to transmit DVD, VCR and digibox signals to a TV in their upstairs bedroom. It uses the 2.4GHz frequency to transmit signals, avoiding the crowded 900MHz band used by many mobile phones and other transmitters. It also employs wideband FM to ensure a better signal than AM transmitters.
The system comprises one transmitter unit and one receiver, both styled in rather fetching shades of grey. The high-gain paddle antennas on top can rotate through 180 degrees to pick up the best signal. Each unit requires its own supplied power unit. On the side of each unit is a UHF antenna, which sends and receives infrared commands from remote controls (by converting them into RF). This means you can also control your source from a remote location. A three-way infrared extender is also supplied, so you can hide the transmitter out of sight and still control up to three pieces of AV equipment.
At the back of each unit is a Scart socket to which the source and TV are connected, and Philex supplies the Scart cables. A choice of four transmission channels is available, using slight variations on the 2.4GHz frequency. This is useful if you have multiple receiver units - you can use four different sources and designate a channel for each one. PERFORMANCE
Used around the home, SuperWand proves a strong, robust system. We beamed pictures from a DVD player from various rooms around the house to a 32in TV. Pictures are consistently stable, retaining the vibrant colour and detail of the source. In fact, the only way you'd know this is being transmitted is the occasional appearance of light drifting line interference, and minor tizzing on some edges. But it's insignificant and never spoils your enjoyment.
The SuperWand is another excellent problem-solving gadget from Philex. Best Buy.
FEATURES One transmitter and one receiver with polarised high-gain directional flat antennas; 100m line of sight range; uses 2.4GHz transmission frequency; four transmission channels; one Scart socket on both units; supplied with three-way infrared extender and two Scart cables
DIMENSIONS Both units: 140(w) x 42(h) x 113(d)mm
VERDICT A highly competent videosender
Overall 5/5 |
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What Is It? The Philex Super Wand solves a problem that is becoming more and more common. How do you link together different audio, PC, television and/or satellite equipment without covering your home in wiring. For instance:
How Does It Work? Simply connect your equipment's audio left/right and/or video output to the Wand Transmitter. This sends the stereo audio or video signal directly to the Wand Receiver using a wideband FM signal. You then simply connect the equipment you would like to receive the audio or video signal to the Wand Receiver using the audio left/right and/or video connectors. Yes, But How Does It Really Work? Signals pass through walls, floors and ceilings thanks to the fact that the system uses wideband FM transmissions. This also minimizes interference from other wireless A/V transmitters. Does It mean I Have To Move Rooms To Change Channels? No. This is because these magic boxes have their own integrated remote control sender the system converts infra red signals to UHF signals and transmits them from one location to another. The Super Wand can also control your A/V equipment remotely, wherever it may be in your home. Can I Add Extra Receivers? Yes. In theory you can add as many receivers as you want as long as they are within the 100m operating range of the transmitter. However, additional receivers are now longer available. When they were available though they cost £39.99 so it is nearly as cheap to just buy two Superwands and use the receivers on one sender. Anything Else PLL (Phase Locked Loop) circuit enhances wireless AV signal quality. Scart connectivity - simple and fast connection to existing AV equipment. 4 switchable frequencies for best signal transmission and reception. The Super Wand works perfectly with Sky and all cable boxes, but please note because of the way that their remote codes work you will not be able to change channels from the other location with NTL Digital or Telewest Comes with 2 free 1.5m Scart leads and a free 2 way Scart splitter. Reviews The Philex Super Wand was reviewed in the January 2003
edition of What Video And TV magazine where it was awarded Best Buy
and given 5 out of 5. Guarantee One year manufacturer's guarantee. |
Specifications
Wand (Transmitter & Receiver) £44.99 This is the price you pay. There is no V.A.T or delivery charge to add. | |
