Aztech simplifies Powerline networking

Philip Wong | Jan 03, 2008

Though Wi-Fi is the future, nothing beats a wired network for enhanced security and guaranteed bandwidth especially in A/V applications. The latest iteration, Powerline, taps on your existing in-house power grid for data transmission. To further simplify installation, Singapore-based Aztech is debuting two HomePlug-series products during CES 2008: HL109RN and HL109EP.

The HL109RN is possibly the world's first all-in-one WiFi-N router with integrated Powerline connectivity. Not only does it eliminate the need for a dedicated Powerline adapter, this also minimizes cable clutter as well as supports up to 200Mbps of theoretical fast data rate for standard- and high-definition video streaming. Another cool feature is a USB port on the rear capable of supporting multimedia playback on portable storage.

Running at a similar speed is the HL109EP, another world's first Powerline network adapter with AC pass-through and Simple Connection functions. The former allows an electrical appliance to draw power directly from its onboard three-pin socket, while the latter is a one-touch button that automatically pairs a group of powerline adapters.

Elegent-yet-simple solutions which will hopefully renew interest in this slow-moving networking technology.

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