Wi-Fi is the biggest new capability for devices that is growing so fast that very soon it will be hard to live without it. Wi-Fi, or “wireless fidelity” is the connection of 2 devices using radio transmission to synchronize. Popular PDAs, headsets, and cell phones use Wi-Fi, which adds many new networking features. You can even access the Internet through a router for free with some devices. One of these devices is the Nintendo DS, a popular handheld video game console.
The Nintendo DS already has its own wireless Wi-Fi range right out of the box, allowing you to communicate with other DS owners nearby. This can be a very convenient and attractive draw for customers, especially in the home country of the console’s manufacture, Japan. In crowded trains, train stations, and coffee shops, it wouldn’t be hard at all to find someone to play or chat with. In fact, this type of social networking is becoming more and more popular in Japan. But wouldn’t it be great to be able to chat and play with people from all over the world? You can, and the possibilities are endless.
Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection is a system created and operated by Nintendo to provide a network portal for gamers around the world to connect and find matches to play. It is a completely free service that can be accessed with the Nintendo DS by using Wi-Fi to connect to the Internet.
You can connect to this free service by accessing any wireless hotspot throughout the city. Most areas you are in have wireless networks that you can connect to free of charge. Cafes, libraries, schools, and other places have these free wireless areas set up for their customers. You can also find free Wi-Fi at apartment complexes and even universities. Unfortunately, in some places, free Internet service is not available. For example, until recently Nintendo had an agreement with McDonald’s to have free Wi-Fi in various restaurants, but this agreement has not been renewed. Starbucks charges for the use of its Wi-Fi Even with a lack of hotspots in your city, you can still find ways to access the Internet for free.
A very viable option in places that do not offer free Wi-Fi is to use the wireless router in your home. Many homes today have multiple computers and Internet access, using a wireless router to provide a signal to all the computers. You can configure your router to allow access from your Nintendo DS and enter Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection. You can set up 3 wireless connections on your DS: use one for your home and you could use the other two for your friends’ houses. And if you don’t have a wireless router at home, you can always buy the Nintendo USB Connector. If your PC has a wireless connection, just plug in this USB module and it will send the signal to your DS without a router.
With the relatively cheap price of the Nintendo DS and free Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection, you can take your gaming and networking to a whole new level with the capabilities of the DS. If you’re willing to pay a small amount extra, you can use Nintendo’s Pay and Play system and get access to downloads and other features too.