TP-Link launch its AV500 Gigabit Powerline Adapter

Powerline adapters might not be suited for everyone, but there is no question as to whether or not it is very convenient to set up a home network just by plugging a couple of adapters (or more) in wall power sockets. 

TP-Link's new powerline network product is called AV500 Gigabit Powerline Adapter and can stream data over up to 300 meters (984 feet). The name isn't really a correct hint as to what the item can do though. Despite being called a “Gigabit” adapter, it is limited to 500 Mbps, hence the AV500 moniker. Keep that in mind before you go and place a pre-order. Speaking of which, the online price is $89.99 on Newegg, Amazon, TigerDirect and Walmart, or 70 Euro according to exchange rates. 

"Our flagship Gigabit Powerline Adapter transforms your home or office power outlets into a high-performance network with no need for new wires or drilling," said Howard He, product engineer of TP-LINK USA. "With our convenient network at 500 Mbps, the Gigabit Powerline Adapter will transmit multiple HD video streams to every room or office, making it an exceptional choice for an easy-to-build multimedia network."  Both homes and offices will be able to connect their network-compatible devices together as long as there are at least two AV500's connected. No drivers are required: one just plugs the adapters in the sockets and everything else takes care of itself. 

After that, people can go ahead and do whatever they need to do (VoIP, online media streaming in HD, playing online games, etc.). 128-bit AES encryption is a bonus (network security / data protection) and TP-Link even tossed in compliance with the HomePlug AV standard. Finally, a patented Power Saving Mode can be entered automatically when the network hasn't been used for a while. It cuts power draw by 85%.

Posted in: Hardware, Preview