HomePlug networks to the rescue
Between my own home and the homes and businesses I have worked on with my repair and service business, I am getting pretty handy at setting up wireless networks.
However, I have run into several issues where the distance was too great for wireless and it would be too expensive to tear into the walls to run a cable. In such cases, I’ve resorted to Linksys 802.11G repeaters, which essentially relay the wireless signals. But that technology isn’t foolproof and it works with only certain routers.
I then discovered a new product from Actiontec that uses the power lines in your house to transmit Internet data from one point to another. The company has released two “HomePlug” kits that are aimed at solving connection issues involving distance.
The HomePlug Ethernet Adapter Kit was simple to use. Plug one adapter into the wall near your router and run one of the included Ethernet cables from the adapter to the router. Then go to the other room and plug the second adapter into the wall. Run a cable from the adapter to the computer and voila, you’re connected to the network. If you have more PCs, just add more adapters; they all work off the original one plugged into the wall. (Gaming consoles also can use the connection.)
Setup was pretty simple and well within the grasp of a consumer.
Speed is more than acceptable; it’s rated at 14Mbps and I observed at least 10 during my residential tests. That’s about the same as the older 802.11B standard and plenty for Internet use.
List price is $129.
The second product, the HomePlug Wireless Kit, basically gives you a remote access point in a distant area for use by wireless equipment. Like the other unit, you plug in an adapter into the wall near your router and run an included cable from the router to the wall.
In the distant room, you place the access point and also plug it into the wall. There your wireless devices now can connect to that access point and, to the distant router, via the power lines.
This unit costs $169.
The company also has released a nifty wireless adapter for your Xbox, Playstation, Tivo or other device.
Details for all are at www.actiontec.com
WEEKLY WEB WONDER: I remember when TVs were 12 inches wide, black and white and had three channels. We had a remote control, which was me. Anyway, check out the history of TV at http://www.ev1.pair.com/colorTV/
James Derk is co-owner of a computer repair company and computer columnist for Scripps Howard News Service. His email is jim@cyberdads.com
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