Powerline Networking could be described as Ethernet over Powerline, quite simply a system for connecting two or more computers for data transfer and file sharing. The speed and simplicity of deploying a Powerline Network makes it ideal for home use where fitting Ethernet is usually impractical — simply connect Powerline Ethernet Adapters to your computers and plug them into wall sockets.
For In-Home Networking, Powerline can be considered the main competitor to WiFi. Data security is provided as standard, with the signal unable to pass through electricity meters and transformers, so next door cannot listen in on your network. This "firewalling" of the signal can occasionally prove troublesome, as surge protectors and RCDs may interfere with the signal. Powerline's advantage over Wireless Networks is that the signal is not weakened by passing through walls, where "dead spots" due to brick construction or sound/heat insulation can play havoc with WiFi signals.
The latest Powerline Adapters claim to support transfer rates of 200 Mbps, in truth up to 40 Mbps is a more achievable figure, which is still no slouch and performs well compared with WiFi and 100 Mbps Ethernet.
See Also: Power over Ethernet — a new technology for powering small devices in an Ethernet connected environment.
7 Jan 2008
At this week's 2008 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, SiConnect will be demonstrating a range of home networking products based on its POEM powerline communications technology. As the leader in multimedia-ready home networking, SiConnect will also be outlining its future product roadmap, including its plans for adopting the emerging powerline standards being developed by IEEE.
5 Dec 2007
SiConnect, the leader in multimedia-ready home networking technology, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Vigoole to integrate its powerline-based connectivity into the company's range of audio products.
5 Dec 2007
SiConnect, the leader in multimedia-ready home networking technology, has signed a memorandum of understanding with JPNET to create powerline based data distribution products for the Chinese market.
27 Aug 2007
HomePlug-based Powerline Communications Technology Will Link DIRECTV's HD DVR Set Top Box to the Home PC or Internet Gateway
Ocala, FL - August 27, 2007 - Intellon Corporation, a leading provider of HomePlug-compatible integrated circuits (ICs) for home networking, networked entertainment, broadband over powerline (BPL) and smart grid applications, today announced that its HomePlug 1.0 with Turbo powerline communications IC will provide No New Wires® connectivity for DIRECTV's video on demand service that is scheduled to launch this fall.
18 Jun 2007
SPiDCOM Technologies opens a new subsidiary in Belgrade (Serbia) for software development and customer support in Eastern European region
Belgrade, June 18th, 2007 - SPiDCOM Technologies, the silicon supplier for broadband PLC (powerline communication) over any wire, opens a new subsidiary in Belgrade. With headquarters in Paris (France), a subsidiary in Beijing (PR China) and now Belgrade (Serbia), SPiDCOM follows its ambitious plan of worldwide development.
1 Feb 2007
Beaverton, Ore., February 1, 2007 - Consumer Electronics Powerline Communications Alliance (CEPCA), a not-for-profit industry organization whose mission is to ensure co-existence between various high-speed, powerline communication (PLC) systems for use in the home, today elevated SiConnect to the position of Promoter member.
8 Jan 2007
Second Plugtest event showcases interoperability among products based on global standards for high-speed powerline communications - Now twelve products with 200 Mbps high definition ready home networking on the market
Las Vegas, NV - January 8, 2007 - The Universal Powerline Association (UPA) today announced that following the results of its second product certification event, five new interoperable home networking powerline communications products have been granted the “UPA Plugtested” logo. UPA Plugtested products are independently tested for performance and interoperability. Consumers can be sure that the products bearing the UPA Plugtested logo will work together for all their networking requirements. UPA products are the only networking option available for the home or business that combine ease of installation with a consistent connection to deliver quality HD streaming. A total of twelve UPA certified 200 Mbps powerline products are available on the market today and on display at the Consumer Electronic Show.
8 Jan 2007
Intellon and Vidanti to showcase self-installable IPTV solutions at CES 2007
CES 2007, Las Vegas - January 8, 2007 - Vidanti Ltd, a pioneering leader in software for high definition (HD) TV over Broadband, announced plans to develop HD IPTV products based on Intellon's world-leading INT6000 HomePlug AV IC.
28 Sep 2006
Intel Developer Forum, San Francisco, CA - September 28, 2006 - Sixteen demos in a total of six categories vied as finalists for Intel's Technology Innovation Acceleration (TIA)awards, which recognize technological pioneering and adoption of Intel's platform strategy. Intellon Corporation was named winner in the Digital Home Category.
26 Sep 2006
SAN FRANCISCO - September 26, 2006 - The HomePlug® Powerline Alliance today announced that it will be hosting a HomePlug Technology Community display at this week's Intel Developer's Forum® (IDF) in San Francisco.
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