Communications products vendor NetComm (ASX:NTC), has released an Ethernet-over-power adaptor that allows networking of computers and peripheral devices over standard electrical circuits in the home or office.

The product called HomePlug is an application of the data communications over power lines technology that is starting to appear in the sights of power companies looking to capitalise on the existing network infrastructure of the electrical grids.

“HomePlug allows anyone to take advantage of their existing power wiring to network their computers and peripherals without the expense or complexity of having dedicated network cabling installed,” said David Stewart, managing director of NetComm. “If you can plug something into a power point, you can set up your network with a HomePlug. It offers true plug-and-play functionality and is also ideal for use in situations where network cabling could not be installed, even if you wanted to – for example in heritage buildings, or structures with solid concrete walls or floors,” he said.

According to Netcomm applications for its new product are many and varied:

·         Plug an ADSL modem router into a HomePlug and immediately share broadband Internet access to any room with a power point;

·         Connect up to 15 devices – computers, printers, modem routers, etc into a HomePlug network;

·         Connect a gaming console to the internet for online gaming;

·         Network a printer so that everyone in the house can print to it

According to Netcomm, HomePlug is not meant to be a replacement for wireless, but a complementary product. In a wireless ‘dead spot’ the signal can be boosted by connecting a Wireless Access Point into a HomePlug in the area requiring coverage.

The product also comes with a PC software utility to turn on security to prevent ‘eavesdroppers’ from accessing the network. We're not quite sure where the said eavesdroppers would be accessing the network from, unless it's your fusebox or the power pole outside your home.

HomePlugs must be on the same electrical circuit to communicate with one another. However, this is not an issue in most homes or commercial buildings because all of the power points usually run on one circuit while lighting is on a separate circuit.

The NetComm adaptor is based on the HomePlug 1.0 specification developed by the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, an international organisation made up of information technology and consumer electronics manufacturers.

“The other interesting aspect of this technology is that in the future it will converge with consumer electronics to create ‘entertainment networking’,” said David Stewart. “It won’t be long before you will be able to unpack your new flat-panel TV and simply plug it in to be instantly connected to your digital set-top box, DVD player, Digital Video Recorder, home theatre system and the Internet – all without tripping over unsightly cables or puzzling over connections. We’re already working on the next generation of products.”

NetComm’s HomePlug is now available from computer resellers at a recommended retail price of $199. We hope to be able to bring you a review very soon.