Escient MP-150 manual Powerline Networking

HOME NETWORKING PRIMER WD005-1-2 12/22/2003

Powerline Networking

Powerline networking has existed in a few forms in the past, the latest specification is called HomePlug and runs at 14Mbps. HomePlug uses your existing home electrical wiring to transfer data.

HomePlug does not interfere with your existing electrical equipment or home automation devices like X-10, CEBus, and LONworks. HomePlug also encrypts all data with 56bit DES encryption to ensure that your neighbors can not eavesdrop on your network traffic. Note: encryption is usually not enabled by default and must be 'turned on' using software provided by the devices manufacturer.

The HomePlug specification incorporates a technology called PowerPacket. This new technology is what makes HomePlug different from the old Powerline networks. PowerPacket eliminates noise from electrical appliances like hair driers and televisions plus it offers security.

Powerline network adapters come in PCI and USB versions but are fairly expensive right now - about $50 to $100 per computer. There are also Powerline to Ethernet bridges and Powerline broadband routers with ethernet bridges built-in, in the same price range.

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