October 25, 2006 -- D-Link has introduced its DHP-301, a 200-Mbit/sec powerline network kit that enables consumers to tap into existing electrical wiring to extend their home networks.
The company says that network-enabled devices can easily be added to a home network using the kit, which contains two powerline adapters, Ethernet cabling, and an installation disk. No new cables or wires are necessary, since the kit's adapters employ ordinary AC power and wall sockets for transferring data.
"Our powerline networking solution makes it even easier for consumers to enjoy the benefits of a true digital home designed for high-definition media streaming, online gaming, and other next-generation applications," remarks AJ Wang, chief technical officer for D-Link. "The technology is fast, extremely easy-to-use, and is a natural complement to our popular wired and wireless home networking for moving data into areas of a home, where it may be difficult to run a cable or achieve a strong wireless signal."
According to the company, connecting to the home network with the kit requires only plugging one adapter to a router and the other to an Ethernet-ready device such as a PC, HDTV, digital video recorder, game console, print server, or digital media player. The company says the technology is ideally suited for bandwidth-demanding applications such as high-definition media streaming, music sharing, and online multi-player gaming.
Suggested retail pricing for the kit is $219.99.