Cisco's Linksys badge brought out three new powerline networking kits for those who prefer or need mostly wired links. The PLEK400 one-port kit, PLSK400 four-port kit, and PLW400 wireless extender all run on the HomePlug standard and can reach up to 200Mbps. Linksys is vowing a small design that makes it practical to hook up other devices to the local wall outlet.
Atheros Communications will release three hybrid home networking hardware designs that use Wi-Fi, powerline and Ethernet connections. These are said to extend both range and bandwidth of home networks, and include a mix of Atheros chips and Intellon's, which was bought by Atheros in the fall of last year. Intellon makes powerline chips, while Atheros is known for Wi-Fi hardware.
Western Digital has introduced the Livewire Powerline AV kit, a HomePlug AV-compatible networking system that sends data throughout a home via electrical outlets. The system provides a way for users to configure a high speed network without running wires or relying on Wi-Fi signals.
Logitech is getting into digital video security systems, as it has introduced two such systems, the Alert 750i Master System and the weatherproof and night-vision capable Alert 750e Outdoor Master System. Each includes one HD camera, software and the ability to view the feed from any browser on a Mac or PC, or on their smartphones. The company will offer a premium Web and Mobile Commander service that will let user watch video that is recorded and stored on the camera and manage settings from the web or their smartphones.
The HomePlug Powerline Alliance on Thursday explained advancements to its HomePlug AV2 specification for networking. The alliance's Technical Working Group has brought MIMO technology to the Powerline systems for faster speeds and range, increased Medium Access Control (MAC) efficiency and promised to increase operating spectrum. AV2 can further extend coverage by repeating and routing technology in networks of three or more nodes.
Belkin today launched sweeping changes to its network routers, starting with a new set of routers for Ethernet networking over a home's power grid. The Powerline series supplies speeds between 85Mbps and 200Mbps depending on the model, giving enough speed for faster Internet connections and streaming video at distances up to 300 meters away without the lag associated with wireless. All also support AES encryption to prevent outsiders from tapping into the network without permission.
