The big differentiator between the Plaster Networks Adapters and the competition is the a special processor chip that adds a ton of extra functionality and smarts to the adapter. Every customer can access a site where they can see get full visibility into their network performance, find ways to diagnose performance issues, and communicate with the adapters to do things like changing network configurations and what not. Very cool stuff.
And did I mention it's way faster than wireless?
You can get more information and purchase their products here.
Here is the press release:
PLASTER NETWORKS DEBUTS INTELLIGENT POWERLINE SOLUTION FOR IN-HOME
MULTIMEDIA NETWORKING
Menlo Park, California - October 20, 2009 - Today, Plaster Networks
(www.plasternetworks.com) announced availability of a new networking
solution for delivering music, videos, and other multimedia content using
existing electrical wiring within the home. In response to the growth of
streaming video, IPTV, and over-the-top (OTT) applications, Plaster Networks
offers a reliable alternative to wireless networks, and is more
cost-effective than installing Ethernet cables in the walls.
Plaster Networks delivers the first solution that combines intelligent
powerline adapters with a web-based service for remotely managing and
configuring the home network. The Plaster Networks solution also includes
powerline isolators that can filter unwanted noise, improving network
reliability and performance.
"Home networks are quickly transitioning from computer applications such as
web surfing and e-mail to broadband entertainment applications including
video, music, and online gaming," said Jeff Scroggin, CEO of Plaster
Networks. "By integrating advanced management and configuration into the
Plaster Networks PLN3 adapters, our goal is to make powerline networking a
reliable solution that delivers uninterrupted broadband connectivity within
existing homes, without the expense of installing dedicated network cables."
Combined with Plaster Networks Service, the company's PLN3 powerline
adapters allow users to see the throughput capacity of their powerline
network instantly through a standard browser. The Service provides an easy
way to verify the status of the network. And in many cases the Service can
help identify where to install Plaster Networks isolators to optimize
performance.
Based on the HomePlug AV standard, Plaster Networks PLN3 powerline adapters
deliver up to 200Mbps PHY rates (with equivalent Ethernet rates reaching
100Mbps). HomePlug AV provides a convenient and cost effective method of
distributing multimedia content in the home without new wires.
"Plaster Networks brings a new level of functionality to powerline
networking by combining Intellon's 6400 IC HomePlug AV Chipset Solution with
a dedicated network processor for management and diagnostics," said Rick E.
Furtney, President and COO of Intellon Corporation. "We are delighted that
Plaster Networks selected our latest HomePlug AV chipset for this innovative
solution for delivering a reliable broadband network within the home."
Plaster Networks PLN3 Ethernet adapters are available in the U.S. through
the Plaster Networks website (www.plasternetworks.com) at $149.95 for a set
of two. For a limited time, Plaster Networks is offering one year's free
subscription to Plaster Networks Service (including software updates).
About the company: Plaster Networks enables simple, reliable networking over
existing wiring. The company develops advanced hardware and software
technologies for low-cost, high speed powerline networks in the home or
small office. Plaster Networks was founded by Paul Baran, a Silicon Valley
entrepreneur widely known as the inventor of packet switching, the
foundation technology for the Internet. For more information, please visit
www.plasternetworks.com.
