Questions about internet - Powerline Adapter Kits

[katz]

Client wants internet in a second room, running cable is not an option. I have been considering a powerline adapter kit, such as the TrendNet -

http://www.amazon.com/TRENDnet-Power...7028301&sr=8-1

Years ago I heard that they needed to be on the same circuit in order to work. Is this still the case, or will they work on independent circuits?

Any other suggestions? Options?

Thanks!

[Xander]

The ones I have, and use, specify that they need to be on the same circuit. It makes perfect sense, of course, otherwise there is no way that the signal could complete.

[cprompt]

Actually, I'm not sure they need to be on the same circuit. I had a set that I ran through a circuit panel, to a sub-panel in an attached building, so the signal passed through at least 3 circuit breakers. It gave me no problem that I was ever aware of - speed did not seem to be impacted, I didn't have issues with dropping the signal, etc.

I don't know whether the signal travels on the hot line or on the neutral line. If it travels on the neutral line, then they are all connected right in the circuit breaker box. If it travels on the hot line, then there still is a connection through the circuits, otherwise the electricity could not go through.

That's my experience, at least - I'm certainly no expert!

Brian.

[C.Quill]

Would something like that work in a Condo/Apartment?

I've never heard anything specific about whether they work or not and how they work.

[katz]

Every thread/post I read on the net is split on the idea; some posters say they need to be on the same branch circuit, others mention that they have no problems at all in huge house set-ups...

I guess the only way to know for sure is to try it in your particular situation...if it works, it works. If not, guess the only alternative is to run cable or go wireless.

[Tepin]

God I remember trying to support these 8 years ago at 2Wire .. they stopped selling the product it is to much of a headache.

Basically it goes like this:

There isn't anyway to know for sure if it will work or not until you try it. They should work as long as all outlets are on the same panel. They don't have to be on the same breaker. Being on the same panel is still not a guarantee that they will work unfortunately. The only way to know for sure is to try it.

My suggestion would be the obvious one, use wifi instead.

[rsarceno]

Originally Posted by katz

Client wants internet in a second room, running cable is not an option. I have been considering a powerline adapter kit, such as the TrendNet -

Why not set up WIFI?

[katz]

Originally Posted by rsarceno

Why not set up WIFI?

The powerline adapters looked like a less expensive option at around $50 for a set. They (customer) have no router, which means the cost of a router & receiver.

But, it looks like we will be going with Wifi after all, as I would rather not deal with the hassle of these powerline things if they are as "iffy" as they seem to be.

[Tepin]

Are you in the US?

You can get an inexpensive router and a couple of adapters for around $50-60 on Newegg. I suggest you stay away from Rosewill and refurbished adapters; personally I've found the Encore ones to be the most reliable in the $10 range.

[YeOldeStonecat]

I've had no problem with them on different circuits within the same building. I have 3 circuits in my house that has multiple buildings on the same log..and it works no problem. "Copper beats wireless" any day of the week for me.

Manufacturers are gunshy to support all different types of wiring...having different circuits in the same building can potentially complicate things, so I support they draw the line somewhere by saying "must be on same circuit". The issue is really when you go to circuits on different "phases". This is not common.