Acer HomePlug USB Adapter User’s Manual
-2-
Table of Contents 0.0 Introduction to HomePlug networking 0.1 Powerline Networking Concepts ............................... 0.2 Encryption and Security ........................................... 0.3 Basic Requirements ................................................. 0.4 Feature developments ............................................. 0.5 Nodes and Bridges ................................................... 3 3 4 4 4 1.0 Installation.....................................................................
0.0 Introduction to HomePlug Networking 0.1 Understanding HomePlug Networking Concept HomePlug Networking, not to be confused with Power over Ethernet, has very different usage and features. Power over Ethernet is a device that acts as a Hub or a Switch and draws its power from nearby unsuspecting computers connected to it by a Cat. 5 cable. On the other hand, HomePlug Networking uses your current existing or featured power lines to transfer network data.
HomePlug Encryption and Protection Schemes The HomePlug device uses encryption to block outside access. The key is set by using the configuration software on the CD. By default, the protection is enabled. However, it is recommended that you change the default encryption key. All your HomePlug devices must use the same encryption key in order for the computers to be networked. Make sure that all devices are loaded with the same key. 0.
The Bridge function only works with Ethernet HomePlug models because USB devices can't be shared yet. The default connection type for Ethernet adapters is Bridge. The only way to turn it off is to install the utility that comes with the unit. That will turn the Bridge into a Node. It is possible to have both Nodes and Bridges on a network as long as there is only a maximum of two Bridges. It is possible to have USB Nodes on the same network as Ethernet Nodes.
1.0 Installation - Acer HomePlug USB Adapter Make sure that your HomePlug USB Wall Adapter is not plugged in when beginning. Insert the installation CD. If the CD does not automatically load, run (CD Drive Latter):\usb\setup.exe Click on Next to start installation. Enter a username and organization and continue installation. (Username and Organization have no importance in device operation.) Click Next.
Click Install. Click Finish.
2.0 Configuration With the HomePlug Configuration Utility you will be able to configure and obtain status on your homeplug network. Just launch the Newly created Shortcut on your desktop. Device– On this window, the utility will try to detect what HomePlug devices are connected. Your HomePlug Mac Address will be shown here. Refresh– Click on it when you need to refresh your information. Connect– When you have more than one HomePlug device, you can select which device you want to connect to.
Network– This tab will show all HomePlug devices connected to the network. Scan the network for newly added devices. MacAddress– The device ID or MacAddress is displayed on the tab to identify the unit. Data Rate– Shows the speed that this device is connected at. This data will vary depending on the Powerline quality. Security– Allows the user to change the encryption setting on the HomePlug device. Set Local– Enter the password into the Network Password Box and click on Set Local.
Advanced– Here users can do remote Password changes. * Device Password (DEK)is always taped on the bottom of the HomePlug unit.
