Homeplug: Wireless alternative

Homeplug is an electronic device which enables the mains electrical wiring to be used to carry computer broadband and/or network information. Homeplug is a great and affordable alternative to wireless. It consists of a small unit about the size of a power adaptor which plugs directly into the mains which means that it can be used anywhere within a building where a standard 13A socket is available. When can it be used? It can be used for many applications wherever there is a requirement to create or extend a Network or share a broadband connection without having to install additional cables. It also provides a very simple alternative to wireless technology with better security but can work in conjunction with an existing wireless system to extend wireless range into "Dead" areas. A list of applications are as follows :- Network Connection between 2 computers. Internet connection sharing. Extend wireless connectivity using a Wireless Access Point Printer sharing using a Network Printer or Print Server IP Security Camera. Summary of Advantages Uses existing mains wiring - no additional cabling required Very easy to install. More secure than "Wireless". Easily portable and can be used in various locations within a property or can be transferred to a completely new building. Max Number of Homeplug Devices in a Building In theory over 200 devices can be used but for normal applications a maximum of 20 is recommended. Also more advanced techniques can increase this figure many time   Operating Range of Homeplug Devices These devices will operate over a range of 100 - 200 metres of mains wiring cable between electrical socket outlets. There are no problems with communication where the devices are used on different circuits or multi extension sockets. Communication into neighbouring property can be restricted by electricity meters and alternative phasing. Operation and Security Homeplug functions independently of the operating system therefore will work with Windows, Linux or Mac and any network device. Security is provided by built in 56 bit DES encryption and password protected ensuring that your network communications are free from eavesdroppers and hackers. Electricity meters and the normal use of alternate phases restrict communication outside the confines of the property. Performance and Wireless Comparison Tests have been carried out on Homeplug and a Wireless Router which sends a 25 Megabyte (MB) file between a server and a PC with the following results :- 14 Mbps HomePlug          Transfer Rate = 7.5MB a second 85 Mbps HomePlug          Transfer Rate = 25MB a second 54 Mbps WiFi Router        Transfer Rate = 14MB a second For most normal applications the 14Mbps Homeplug device is adequate but where higher performance is required, the 85Mbps model is more suitable and this test showed that it can perform significantly faster than a standard wireless router. << Product Focus