Powerline adapters?

[The End]

All of a sudden these seem to be advertised everywhere? Is it a new technology or something proven?

http://www.pbtech.co.nz/index.php?z=...rline-Adapter-


Basically, you plug one into your modem and then the other into a power socket in your wall and it uses your electrical wires to transfer the internet so you can plug in via ethernet up to 300m away from your modem.

Sounds almost...too good to be true?

As someone whose laptop is 30 meters away from the modem and gets frequent disconnects (never been able to figure out why) if this really is something that will give me an ethernet connection then I will invest in one.

[Gremlin]

Been around for a few years now. Used them.

They're not perfect and have limitations. From memory, if you're trying to connect two powerpoints that are joined through a switch board (ie, different circuits) then I don't think it will work. Haven't set one up for at least a year, so memory is hazy. However, when the client doesn't want more cables run everywhere, holes in their nice walls at home etc, it has a market.

Otherwise, troubleshoot the wireless connection. Modem, wireless in laptop etc. Your other option is a wireless bridge.

[jonbuoy]

As Gremlin said- they are OK. I've used a few types- they usually like to be plugged into a socket by themselves they often don't play nice with multiways or surge protectors. Not perfect but good for houses with thick walls.

[The End]

if you're trying to connect two powerpoints that are joined through a switch board (ie, different circuits) then I don't think it will work.

Makes sense, and without viewing the building plans I doubt there's a way to easily see if that will be the case.

Otherwise, troubleshoot the wireless connection. Modem, wireless in laptop etc. Your other option is a wireless bridge.

I've tried, I think it's beyond me. I've tried 3 different modems. It happens on 2 different laptops as well as smartphones. Devices stay connected but have "limited access". Phoned ISP many times but they say it must just be me. They're hopeless. They also can't seem to explain why my IP address won't renew if I unplug my modem, despite not having a static IP.

[merv]

I used Dick Smith brand powerline system for years and it worked well on ethernet or USB connections (I had both types all running at the same time). I used to have the main modem upstairs connected by etehrnet to my desktop, then used powerline to connect downstairs and had that run to a wireless router there so everyone down stairs could then just connect to wi-fi or ethernet.

Now the kids have left home and I stopped using my old Win 98 desktop and we don't need so many connections so I've parked them for a while and we just use wi-fi without any hassles either.

[Gremlin]

I've tried, I think it's beyond me. I've tried 3 different modems. It happens on 2 different laptops as well as smartphones. Devices stay connected but have "limited access". Phoned ISP many times but they say it must just be me. They're hopeless. They also can't seem to explain why my IP address won't renew if I unplug my modem, despite not having a static IP.

I do have one network where my laptop seems to hate it, and DHCP doesn't work. DHCP works for any other device and the laptop works on any other network. Equipment between that network and others is the same.

I simply chuck a static IP in, when I'm there. Not easy for the average user though...

[R650R]

Couple years ago the conspiracy sites were saying they were going to be new standard or similar system so your device is always connected to the net (tablets and phones would end up being permanently on) so big brother can spy on everyone etc. Obviously there are prob noise issues to work through.
Under such a system technically stolen electronic goods wouldn't be sellable as they would instantly connect and transmit location data...

[pete376403]

These things will only work as far as the nearest transformer. So surveillance over the powerlines is going to have problems every where the HVAC is stepped down to 240v