Belkin Router Packs Integrated Display

Using an LCD panel, the N1 Vision lets you view your upload and download speeds, bandwidth usage, and more.

If you’re the kind of person who needs a GPS unit in your car to know exactly where you are at all times, thermometers in every room of the house to know exactly how hot it is, and a bike computer that can tell you exactly how many times you pedal every minute, you may be a fan of Belkin’s latest wireless router. The N1 Vision 802.11n router has a built-in in display to let you know exactly what’s going on with your Internet connection, without ever plugging in a separate computer.

The Belkin N1 has an unusual upright design with an LCD panel built into the side. Using the panel, users can keep an eye on their download and upload speeds, network bandwidth usage, the number of connected devices, date and time, and even pull up a guest access network key.

“We always strive to build products that are useful, simple, and thoughtfully designed,” said Chris McGugan, Belkin’s vice president of product management, in a statement. “Here, we’ve evolved the intuitive LED display from our flagship N1 Wireless Router into an interactive LCD on the N1 Vision, giving you a sophisticated wireless router that tells you much more about your network activity.”

Besides the display, the router also offers a plug-and-play setup that requires no CDs, four wired Gigabit ports, and all the trappings of an 802.11n connection, such as an operating range of up to 16,000 square feet and transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps. The N1 Vision will be available in late July with a list price of $199.99.