Compiled by Patrick Avenell

Netgear has released a new consumer home network repeater: the Universal Wi-Fi Range Extender (WN3000RP, RRP $129). This device, which plugs straight into a power socket, automatically repeats the signal for the primary home Wi-Fi router.

“With a rapidly expanding constellation of Internet-enabled mobile and entertainment devices, Aussies are becoming increasingly connected from more places in the home. Smartphones and tablet devices are now being used for high-bandwidth activities, such as video streaming and multi-player gaming that requires rock-solid Wi-Fi connections,” said Netgear ANZ director of consumer channels Brad Little.

“The Netgear Universal Wi-Fi Range Extender makes it possible to enjoy a robust wireless connection in remote corners of the house, or even outdoors that previously had low or no Wi-Fi signal.”

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iiNet has announced that today’s installation of a broadband port in Gosford, NSW, is the ISP’s 500,000th such access point.

“For residents and businesses in Gosford, and around the country, the expansion of our network means a more competitive market and faster speeds,” said iiNet chief technology officer Greg Bader. “We don’t believe in waiting for the National Broadband Network to be built, people want faster broadband now.”

iiNet even wheeled out a customer to offer her views.

“I’ve been with iiNet for more than eight years and I am a big supporter so it’s really nice to be rewarded for my loyalty and it’s a good thing for the area as it brings more competition which is always a positive,” said Gosford customer Judy Donahay.

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A survey conducted by Galaxy and paid for by American Express has revealed that small businesses find tax time to be cause of anxiety.

According to the Amex Tax Time survey of 500 businesses, 74 per cent consider filling out a Business Activity Statement a burden and 35 per cent are stressed by business taxation requirements.

Amex even has some handy tips to overcome these maladies, one of which is to get an Amex business card. Others include diligence in retaining and storing receipts and records, investing in professional accounting software and familiarising yourself with various tax concessions and small business obligations.

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Harvey Norman and FujiFilm must be happy with New South Wales’ impressive win in State of Origin last night, with the big decider in Brisbane on 6 July 2011 now a series decider.

Current.com.au was at ANZ Stadium last night for Game II and was impressed by the level of exposure the Harvey Norman and FujiFilm brands received. Both had their logos plastered over the field and, at various times, across the big screen.

Another company investing in Rugby League signage is Hagemeyer. We noticed the Blanco, Omega, Omega Altise and De Dietrich logos along the sideline during Brisbane’s Golden Point win over Canberra last Sunday.

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Also on Current.com.au today:

Harvey Norman to delist its Singapore subsidiary
Sunbeam beaming from MasterChef and Good Food & Wine partnerships
Magnificently expensive Quincy Jones headphones
Some interesting designs from the Electrolux Design Labs