The idea of setting up a “connected home” network may sound intimidating – but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, Powerline Networking technology actually uses existing (and pervasive!) home electricity (think wall sockets) to boost in-home network coverage for an easier plug-n-play connected home experience. It’s a low cost and easy way to connect devices and deliver content throughout the home.
Recently, SmallNetBuilder reviewed a Broadcom-based Cisco Linskys Powerline AV adapter and highlighted the performance and throughput, saying “you’ll get the comfort of knowing that those bits are probably flowing a bit faster through your home or apartment’s power lines.”
See comparisons and full review here.
What’s Inside?
The devices tested by SmallNetBuilder feature Broadcom’s switch and Ethernet PHY technology as well as a Powerline Communications chipset. Designed in 40 nm, Broadcom’s powerline technology is HomePlug® certified and achieves high integration, low power and small form factors. See more product details here.
As part of its review, SmallNetBuilder conducted some performance comparisons between several HomePlugAV based adapters, including the 200 Mbps BCM60321 Powerline Networking Chipset featured in the Cisco Linksys Powerline AV kit. The tests found the Cisco Linksys Powerline AV adapters to have the highest performance in its class, with a 30% boost over any other existing 200 Mbps solution tested. It also found that when adapters are placed in non adjacent rooms, Broadcom’s powerline technology has equivalent performance to the 500 Mbps solutions tested at this time, confirming the claim that more expensive solutions will not necessarily provide better performance at moderately distant locations.
A Piece of the Puzzle
Broadcom’s powerline technology (HomePlug AV) is part of Broadcom’s home networking standard portfolio. Other key elements include Ethernet, Wi-Fi, MoCA, IEEE P1905 and DLNA. By supporting all key networking standards, Broadcom supports ever-increasing demands for additional bandwidth and multiple HD video streams for a more reliable multi-screen TV and broadband experience. With a robust and stable home network, Broadcom is setting the stage for new home services like home automation and energy management.
What’s New?
At CES this year, Broadcom and Qualcomm Atheros announced their joint performance testing to drive interoperability for HomePlugAV powerline devices. Support from leading vendors drives the adoption of HomePlugAV solutions and validates the performance when operating together. HomePlugAV supports demanding home networking applications like IPTV and multiple HD broadband streams delivered through the home.
Check out the SmallNetBuilder review and comparison to see which device might work for you!
Previously: A Match Made in (Entertainment) Heaven: Broadcom + DLNA
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