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Technical News & Discussion => IDNet Help => Topic started by: neocr0n on Dec 31, 2008, 01:01:53

Title: Powerline Networking
Post by: neocr0n on Dec 31, 2008, 01:01:53
I should probably start by explaining my situation.

I'm upstairs with my main phone socket downstairs, I was wired to it through bell wire but that seemed to be the cause of my constant dropping from the net.  So I had to switch to wireless (router downstairs me up).

I bought the following from Amazon.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Max-Value-200Mbps-Home-Double/dp/B001AIKBB4/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1230684923&sr=8-3

I've just found out they don't work very well with plug extensions, unfortunatly I don't have enough sockets near the phone or even upstairs to avoid using extensions sockets.

Does anyone know of any extensions sockets that are kinder on powerline networking?  Or does anyone know and can vouch for any powerline networking adaptors that will work with extension sockets?

Or any tricks to get them working..

Thanks,

Jonny
Title: Re: Powerline Networking
Post by: Steve on Dec 31, 2008, 07:40:05
The Zyxel PLA 401 200 AV work on my extension sockets non of which are surge protected. My router sits in a downstairs cloakroom next to the master socket and I use an extension lead there and also 2 others are on extension sockets . I probably take a performance hit but not enough for me to notice. I understand sockets with surge protectors maybe a different issue. If you are using "homeplugs/PLA's" from different manufacturers be aware that the 200AVs are not compatible with the slower versions and that the chipset and firmware should be the same i.e I could not get a Solwise and a Zyxel 200AV to "see each other" although both utilise the same intellon chipset until I had upgraded each to firmware version 3.05(not always straight forward in my hands)

There has been some good deals on the Zyxel at Amazon and Ebuyer. I have not tried any of the "push" AV
Title: Re: Powerline Networking
Post by: Sebby on Dec 31, 2008, 10:20:16
I believe that all homeplugs are supposed to go directly into wall sockets. I think more than the plugs, it just depends on your home wiring. I suppose you could always try some others and send them back if no better.
Title: Re: Powerline Networking
Post by: Rik on Dec 31, 2008, 10:21:35
I wonder what difference an extension makes? I'm guessing it's something to do with RF interference, but in that case, would a spur be susceptible?
Title: Re: Powerline Networking
Post by: Steve on Dec 31, 2008, 10:28:04
Quote from: Rik on Dec 31, 2008, 10:21:35
I wonder what difference an extension makes? I'm guessing it's something to do with RF interference, but in that case, would a spur be susceptible?

I think any electrical connection making "noise" is a problem, so presumably on an extension the chances for interference are greatly increased. Advice has been given to wander round the house tightening all the socket screws and wires to reduce interference
Title: Re: Powerline Networking
Post by: Rik on Dec 31, 2008, 10:30:12
Thanks, Steve. I hope the advice was preceded by 'turn the power off first'. :)
Title: Re: Powerline Networking
Post by: Steve on Dec 31, 2008, 10:38:16
 :rofl: That would create even more noise and possibly a nasty smell
Title: Re: Powerline Networking
Post by: Rik on Dec 31, 2008, 10:45:22
 ;D

It certainly could be electrifying. :)