ZyXEL promotes powerline Ethernet tech in the home
updated 12:20 pm EDT, Tue October 17, 2006
ZyXEL powerline Ethernet
ZyXEL is pushing HomePlug AV, a pair of Ethernet adapters designed to enable home networking through power and TV cables. The PLA-400 (powerline) and the PLA-402 (powerline/coaxial) adapters should provide 200 Mbps throughput, and are being positioned as ideal for the rollout of IPTV, which could be far more difficult to set up if relying on regular Ethernet cables or even a wireless router. No drivers will be required to install HomePlug. The scheme should be compatible with standard 10/100 Ethernet connections, and will support up to 16 total connections per home. Basic encryption will come in the form of 128-bit AES. The PLA-400 will be ready in November for $94, while the 402 will come in December at $114.
