Network via your power outlets?NETWORKING BY RADIO gets all the attention, but networking by powerline is still around and sometimes preferable. For example, it might he an option in buildings that aren't wired for Ethernet Ethernet Telecommunications networking protocol introduced by Xerox Corp. in 1979. It was developed as an inexpensive way of sending information quickly between office machines connected together in a single room or building, but it rapidly became a standard computer . It's more secure and has a longer reach than Wi-Fi, offering 56-bit DES encryption The reversible transformation of data from the original (the plaintext) to a difficult-to-interpret format (the ciphertext) as a mechanism for protecting its confidentiality, integrity and sometimes its authenticity. Encryption uses an encryption algorithm and one or more encryption keys. and a range of 1,000 feet of power cable. Speeds top out at 14Mbps. One product, Siemens SpeedStream, uses the AC wiring already in buildings to extend network coverage. SpeedStream is based on HomePlug, a standard that lets computers use 110V wiring to share data and resources. Testing by the HomePlug Alliance showed powerline networking See powerline network. performance is consistent, regardless of a building's age or size; and, the presence of the data signal doesn't affect electrical service Electrical service, in building wiring, refers to the wiring that connects the electric utility's cables in the street to the building. Specifically, electrical service is the wiring from the street, through the meter and up to the panelboard, but no farther. . There are some things to consider with HomePlug: You can't use powerstrips with surge protectors A device that provides protection against power surges. See surge suppression. See also traffic surge protection. because they strip out data signals (some sockets also have surge protectors built in). Electrical noise and interference was also a problem with early trials, but the HomePlug Alliance claims to have overcome this obstacle. http://www.homeplug.org |
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