Frequently Asked Questions About Netgear's HD PowerLine Adaptor

• Powerline uses a home's existing electrical wiring to network computers in different rooms so that they can share files, printers, and Internet connections. NETGEAR Powerline products use existing electrical outlets. If your wiring is modern and up to code, there is no need to rewire outlets or to install special filters.


• NETGEAR Powerline products work with 110 volt 2-prong or 3-prong electrical outlets.


• Powerline technology reliably provides 100% coverage for considerable distances in a home. The product specifications mention a 5000 square foot home, but the limiting factor is often noise in your home's electrical system. Since noise is not directly distance-dependant, you may get considerably less (or, in many cases, considerably more) coverage.


• In many cases, the technology works across multiple phases and circuit breakers.


• The technology supports 56-bit DES encryption.


• Using passcodes, it's possible to have multiple networks in the same building.


• The technology is based on the HomePlug standard, a industry consortium ensuing the interoperability of Powerline devices from multiple manufacturers.


• Plug the devices directly into the electrical outlet. While inexpensive powerstrips and surge protectors may have little effect, more expensive and effective models may block Powerline signals.


• There is no limit to the number of XE102 Powerline units you can use in a location. However with any other, earlier Powerline product, limit the number of devices to 16.

Powerline is not directed at businesses, however it may work in a business environment, anyhow. See Assessing Powerline for Business Environments. Powerline products are affected by noise on electrical lines. In a business environment, for example, with dozens of industrial fluorescent lights, the noise is liable to overwhelm Powerline products. Small businesses, or businesses with modern wiring are less likely to have high amounts of noise.