Article Library

This archive is a compilation of articles published in our eMagazine since inception. The articles are organized by "Subject". Many thanks to those who have contributed to this archive and continue to help it grow by submitting their thoughts and expertise to the magazine.

Search For Articles




Home Networking and Home Office (Data) - Home Networking

Click on the Article Title to view the article. To find more articles by the same author or company, click the author or company name.

Article Title Author Company eMag Issue Article Synopsis
Luxul Networking Review Mark Anderson for HomeToys

Dec 2012

 Like most people, in the past I’ve bought consumer grade from CISCO (formerly LinkSys), Netgear, D-Link, etc. I’ve grown increasingly dissatisfied with these as time goes by. I’ve run across Luxul networking products in several pro-installations so when I got the chance to try them for myself, I jumped at the chance.
How to Use Existing Powerlines to Extend Your Home Network and Stream Media Uninterrupted Richard Xu TP-LINK USA

Jun 2012

 This article is an overview of how wired home plugs can provide an option and may in fact may be the best choice when adding a network/broadband connection to a home or small office
Demystifying Wi-Fi Roaming: What You Need to Know to Avoid Costly Mistakes Clark Roundy Luxul

Apr 2012

 Building a Wi-Fi network that delivers uninterrupted coverage to mobile or “roaming” devices can be a significant challenge—especially as coverage requirements increase. This challenge becomes considerably more manageable when the issue and the deployment alternatives are well understood
Using WiPNET to Connect the Home With the Existing COAX Network Interview with Adam Lenio Wi3

Feb 2012

 WiPNET at its simplest is Ethernet over coax. This means we can provide high speed Internet access to every location in a home with little more than the replacement of existing coax cable wall plates with WiPNET ports.
Home Automation Protocols, Networks and the Smart Grid Len Calderone

Oct 2011

 We have a long way to go before AV, lighting, HVAC, and appliances come together within a home automation network that will work with smart meters and the utilities’ back office system to communicate both ways flawlessly, controlling how and when energy is wisely consumed.  Strides are being made in each area and we will see more systems coming together for the perfect balance of energy consumption and energy savings. 
The first Thai-developed digital embedded network is here Anne Selene

Feb 2011

According to MISOLIMA administrative Director for Asia, Mrs. Phongsri FIKO, it took time to launch the next generation of the popular embedded network DOLLx8 due to the complexity in embedded software developments, but it’s now tested and ready to be introduced in March of this year. New DOLLx8 devices will begin with sales in Asia and then in the United States and Canada later on this month and finally Europe expected by first week of April 2011 together with Australia and New Zealand.

DOLLx8 version 3.18 is faster and better than ever before, running a faster processor than the previous DOLLx8 version. And as expected, it comes with more functions, which also includes a complete alarm system aimed for GSM or Internet. Although the new DOLLx8 is packed with new functions and user configurations compared with its predecessor, the cost of main module is still the same as before.
MOCA + BOXEE = Home Networked Entertainment Entropic Communications Entropic Communications

Feb 2011

 As consumers are equipping their homes with multiple HD TVs and OTT services such as Boxee and VUDU, the need for increased bandwidth and a reliable connection becomes a top priority. The overwhelming broadband traffic produced by these content-heavy devices and services raise concerns of how home networks are going to handle the growing number of connected devices and multimedia services. The MoCA Ethernet-to-Coax adapter is a single-unit solution that enhances the entertainment value of all connected electronics in the network and the overall viewing experience of the consumer.
Interview - Home Automation Networks Dennis McCain Murata Wireless Solutions

Feb 2011

 The Home Area Network has different meanings depending on the context. In the context of Home Automation, it is the wireless connectivity to enable security and convenience in the home and includes wireless home security, lighting control, HVAC control, and home entertainment control. In the context of Smart Energy, the HAN is the network of devices which communicate wirelessly with the smart meter primarily using  the ZigBee standard and includes devices like programmable communicating thermostats, appliances, in-home power usage displays, and load-control/demand-response devices. The primary purpose of the Smart Energy HAN is to make it easier to reduce power and help utilities better manage the power grid.
Interview - IEEE 1901 Powerline Communication Standard Frederic Onado SPiDCOM

Jun 2010

 Frederic Onado is Chief Operating Officer of SPiDCOM Technologies and he is also Vice President EMEA of HomePlug Powerline Alliance.
60GHz and WirelessHD® - Now In Your Living Room John Marshall WirelessHD

Aug 2009

 There are many options on the horizon for consumers looking to update their home entertainment systems with high-powered wireless technology.
Give Your Home Office a Wireless Makeover ComputerTV

May 2009

 For business professionals working from a home office, the benefits of wireless technology are dramatic. First off, it's less expensive to install wireless access points than wiring your office with Ethernet capabilities. Plus, you won’t have to knock holes in walls to set up your network. In addition, a wireless infrastructure is flexible and can accommodate your company’s need to share devices, programs and technology. Lastly, wireless delivers information access to anyone on your staff, from anywhere in your office. Most offices that have made the transition from wired networks to wireless systems have experienced remarkable increases in productivity.
Whole House Distributed HDTV Steven R.Gould

Jun 2008

 In this article we present one way of distributing HDTV around the home. And all without having to run expensive, dedicated component video, digital audio and/or HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables to every room.
Home/Office IPTV-VoD SystemHome/Office IPTV-VoD System Alexander Cameron Digital TX Limited

Jun 2008

 IPTV networks are basically intranets, only the web browser isn’t on a PC, it is on a set-top box. If you’ve set up an intranet or public website, you can set up your own IPTV network and do what you want with it.
Professionally Designing and Planning Wireless Networks Dr. Klaus Romanek Psiber Data Systems

Feb 2008

 New Tools for WLAN Simulation and Installations Not only mature components and new standards, but also modern planning and diagnostic tools make WLANs suitable for industrial use. This in turn permits more efficient mobile working in administration, production and logistics through continuous network availability with sufficient data rates throughout the company. A poorly planned network will suffer from gaps in coverage, areas with poor signal quality, slow response times, poor voice fidelity and disconnected calls in telephony over WLAN, and inadequate throughput capacity overall.
HomePlug Command & Control (HPCC): A Green Energy Enabler Yitran Communications Yitran Communications

Feb 2008

 In simple terms, HPCC creates a command and control network in the home using the existing power lines as a means of communication (PLC). This not only offers the advantages discussed here to utility providers but also allows consumers the ability to control their home, remotely. HPCC’s energy efficient applications, such as networking thermostats in homes and demand control, remote management of high power appliances, etc. ensure a more environmentally friendly future. HPCC also provides a consumer the option to allow the utility companies a measure of control to lower your thermostat for you. The result is a more efficient use of resources as well as consumer friendly incentives such as low tariff periods, competitive pricing, more accurate billing, etc.
Content Insider #94 – Creating, Storing Information, Memories Is Easy…Finding It? Dam! THE Insider

Feb 2008

 Who's worried about the writers' guild strike? There's more out there than you can shake a stick at...darned stuff is everywhere ! Music...there! Video...there! Movies...there!!! School/market research...there! We know you grab it all. Big problem? Finding the D*** stuff after you've got it -- even your own stuff !!! We need software that keeps track of it all. Then we'll quit making copies...duplicates...copies of copies...
Maxtor Shared Storage II Bob Hetherington Maxtor

Dec 2007

 So now when I go on a business trip all I do is grab this drive and throw it in the trunk of the car. I now have a backup of everything ... whether I need to use it or just to feel safe having it all with me. After the wildfires here in San Diego recently I think we can all relate to the need to have a backup of your stuff that is easy to grab and run with. Perhaps the manufacturer should consider putting this thing in a waterproof and fireproof box. Now that would be a nice bit of insurance that would make us all feel warm and fuzzy don't you think?
THE NEXT MAJOR TREND IN HOME SYSTEMS? Petro Shimonishi NetStreams

Jun 2007

 We’re still in the early stages of this video trend, but rest assured that it’s well on its way. And stay tuned: the technology and products coming down the pike are going to be as fascinating at the content they carry.
Broadband Adventures in Rural America Chris Roden Parks Associates

Jun 2007

 In a perfect world, everyone would have access to a broadband technology like cable or fiber. However, it will be decades before telcos and cable providers expand these high-speed services to rural areas. While none of these alternative solutions have emerged as a leader, it looks to be a race between WiMAX and BPL.
You Need A Simple Notebook & Desktop Backup Strategy. Damon Bruccoleri

Dec 2006

 For the desktop user who is unwilling to open their computer, and needs extra USB ports, this drive may be a good choice. Complimenting with Norton Ghost backup software would make a good choice better.
The Next BIG Thing! - Part 2 Mark E. Hazen Intellon® Corporation

Dec 2006

 HomePlug AV is making the home network truly ubiquitous and fully capable of delivering both service providers’ and home owners’ digital content throughout the home to every AC outlet – digital media over power – entertainment at every AC outlet.
The Next BIG Thing! - Part 1 Mark E. Hazen Intellon

Oct 2006

 HomePlug AV provides the robust backbone that frees the service providers’ customers to fully enjoy the services they provide without the expense of truck rolling and the negative affects of customer technophobia. Just plug-it-in technology is what customers and service providers want.
The Digital Network's Final Frontier: Your Home Herman Cárdenas Netstreams

Aug 2006

 Imagine a true digital home where an Ethernet backbone carries all kinds of content and control information (multi-room entertainment, hi-def video, automation, security, online gaming, etc.).
From Old Cars to High-speed Home Networks Mark E. Hazen Intellon Corporation

Aug 2006

 AC powerline and coax cable both networking together is what Intellon Corporation calls a hybrid network, sort of a parallel to the hybrid cars of today – both have two means of conveyance adding to the overall power.
Web Content Coming to Devices Oregan Networks Ltd Oregan Networks Ltd

Apr 2006

 The original definition of the World Wide Web was formulated in terms of connectivity between multiple PCs. Now it is referencing a network of interoperable devices capable of sending and receiving documents formatted in HTML (Hypertext Mark-up Language), transferred via HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol).
The Convergence Of What People Watch, Listen To and Do Winegard Winegard

Apr 2006

 What are they, installers and MDU owners, looking for, for "the Digital Media Lifestyle"? A fast, easy, inexpensive, quality solution to deliver this Triple Play signal to all the converging digital products being manufactured for eagerly waiting consumers wanting a connected home.
What is Bluetooth? MilesTek MilesTek TekTalk

Oct 2005

 Bluetooth was designed for consumers and small office/home office users as an easy-to-use, inexpensive way to transmit data without wires.
Putting the Home Network to Work Kurt Scherf Parks Associates

Aug 2005

 This white paper examines the challenges that face home users of computers, the Internet, and home networks and provides insight into how the industry is addressing the need for improved management, monitoring, and maintenance services and solutions to home users.
For High-Speed Home Retrofitting, Look to Coax Ted Archer Coaxsys, Inc.

Aug 2005

 As in-home IP networking needs increase, installers and homeowners will benefit from using a home’s existing infrastructure
In-Building Internet Distribution - PLC Asaf Avidan Yitran Communications Ltd.

Jun 2005

 Yitran’s PITEL mini-Access System is a low-cost robust networking solution designed for deployment in challenging environments. The system is ideal where traditional connectivity using hard-wired or wireless technology doesn’t exist or is not economically or technically feasible.
Node Zero Gallery Various

Feb 2005

 "Node Zero" is the area in the house where all the cables come together. Below is a selection of N0s belonging to our readers. You can see photos and read descriptions of a variety of projects, from a few simple components in a cupboard under the stairs, to huge multi rack installations. Hopefully this page will show you what can be done and inspire you to do your own.
Give the Customers What They Want Chris Miller Pelham Sloane

Feb 2005

 It’s not unusual for installers and system designers to avoid using computers or to fail to recognize the cost-saving benefits for setting up a LAN or local area network. Each LAN is unique because homeowners invariably want different capabilities from their home networks.
Routers Versus Switches John Schubert Linear LLC

Aug 2004

 Data is transported much like the mail. In some cases, the mailperson brings the mail and drops it directly at the door of the recipient. In other cases, the mail is delivered to a corporate mailroom and is forwarded by the companies’ internal mail delivery system.
Integrated Home Networks CLI Cisco Learning Institute

Apr 2004

 The computer network is perhaps the most critical component in an integrated home network. The computer network is a data communication system allowing a number of independent devices to communicate directly with each other.
HomePlug Gaining Ground In Europe Jeff Chow Corinex Communications Corp.

Apr 2004

 With powerline’s distinct advantages of range, security, scalability, reliability and comparable cost, powerline networking has gained access to a number of important verticals markets, including government agencies, hospitals, schools and hotels.
Family Network Moves into Wireless Age Compex Compex

Apr 2004

 Families are able to control users’ access to different files and information so that it is easy for parents to keep work or other types of files private from children.
Home Wi-Fi Using Soft Access Biju Nair Segue™ Wireless Products

Feb 2004

 The Segue™ SoftAP software creates an instant Wi-Fi network for home or office by simply installing it on an ordinary desktop, laptop or PDA computer equipped with a wireless client adapter, obviating the need for additional access points or complex configuration of access points and routers.
Public Hot Spots: One Truth and Two Myths Yuanzhe (Michael) Cai Parks Associates

Oct 2003

 Most hot-spot service providers agree that the majority of this market's early adopters are and will continue to be so-called road warriors. These people travel nationally or internationally for professional purposes, and while on the road, they need Internet connections to access their corporate networks and e-mail.
Don’t be afraid: Try WiFi Peter Davis

Aug 2003

 To sum it up WiFi rocks! Don’t be afraid to give it a try at your home or office, as you’ll ooh and ahh every time you plop down in that Adirondack chair on your deck with your laptop or check your email while waiting for your delayed flight at the airport.
Maverick Powerline 4-Port Bridge Luke Hetherington

Aug 2003

 Hook up of the two hubs was as simple as plugging them into an available wall socket and connecting all the network cables to the hubs. After that was done the two hubs automatically found each other and transferring data through my AC wiring was up and running.
HomePlug Powerline Networking Devices Bob Hetherington

Apr 2003

 Once you have a powerline network operating in your home it's simple to add computers ... no matter what network plugs they have in them. These manufactures and others make USB adapters, Wireless adapters and Ethernet adapters. They also make Powerline DSL/Cable Routers to connect your powerline network to a broadband internet service.
Leviton Stuctured Media Center and QuickPort Snap-In Modules Bob Hetherington

Feb 2003

 Leviton makes everything you need for a structured wiring installation and the equipment is available almost everywhere ... including Home Depot. You'll be surprised at how easy it is to install and how reasonably priced it can be.
D-Link DWL-810 Ethernet to Wireless Bridge Lonny Paul

Feb 2003

 For individuals who are challenged in getting wiring to specific areas, have ethernet-only devices which need connected to the network, or like the "no-driver-required" feature, the D-Link DWL-810 Ethernet to Wireless Adapter is the choice for you!
Powerline Networking Perry Somers

Dec 2002

 With Powerline Networking you get the benefits of having a wired connection and also the flexibility and mobility of a wireless connection…and you never see or touch one new wire. We all know there is no such thing as "Invisible Wiring", but is this just as good? A lot of people are saying yes!
Wired or Wireless Home Networking Richard Railey Interactive Interiors Inc.

Oct 2002

 The two protocols are not compatible with each other, they operate in different frequency ranges 2.4 GHz (802.11b) and 5 (802.11a) GHz. The speed rate that they transfer data are different; 802.11a up to 54Mbps compared to 802.11b 11Mbps (theoretical speeds). Finally though 802.11b came first, 802.11a is the new standard which most people are adopting because of the higher transfer rates.
Taking the Pain Out of Home Networking Sanjay Castelino Motive Communications, Inc.

Oct 2002

 Smart products and applications help the help desk help you. Even in the cases in which a smart product can't fix or reconfigure itself (and you have to call for help), the product automatically sends to the help desk a detailed description of the problem, the automatic fixes that have already been tried, and a description of the network configuration in which the product is operating.
Ins and Outs of Powerline Networking Tom Reed HomePlug Powerline Alliance

Oct 2002

 HomePlug has eliminated problems that have plagued powerline networking in the past. No longer do common household electrical appliances like hairdryers that generate electronic noise capsize a powerline network.
Wireless networking goes to 22Mbps! Lonny R. Paul TigerDirect.com

Aug 2002

 If you haven't yet taken the wireless networking plunge, now is the time. If you can be satisfied with 11Mbps performance, the prices have been plummeting over the past few months, and better deals are coming through every day. 22Mbps prices are very aggressive as well, so it will be a hard choice where to spend your money. The reality is you can setup a wireless home network for as little as $150 for an access point and two PC Card adapters.
Phonex NeverWire 14 Rob Williams

Aug 2002

 The NeverWire 14 devices are very simple to setup with just a 10base-t network connection, a switch for the network hub and a switch for security. Just plug in the first unit and push the security button. Then go and plug in the other units and push their security buttons. This will set up the 56 bit security encryption so no one on the same wiring can tap into your network. The security will stay set on the units even if you unplug them.
Networking Easy As Drying Your Hair Elsa Chan Asoka USA Corporation

Aug 2002

 This article covers the many advantages of having a home network, what solutions are available, which solution is best for an average household, and, thanks to recent technological breakthroughs, just how quickly and easily a network can now be established- or expanded upon- in the home or small office.
Home Networking Options Brad Warnock Phonex Broadband Corp.

Aug 2002

 For homeowners who aren't up to the complexity of stringing cable or installing a wireless home network, or whose wireless networks aren't reaching the critical areas they need to support, the powerline concept is quickly emerging as a robust and viable alternative that is also inexpensive and exceptionally easy to use.
Compaq iPAQ CP-2W Bob Hetherington

Aug 2002

 Your internet browser is used to access the various settings etc. of the CP-2W. From this simple interface you can set up your internet connection (multiple options), wireless SSID and WEP Encryption security setting etc. There is a built in NAT firewall that when tested using "Shields Up" http://grc.com/ came through with flying colors.
Actiontec 54Mbps Wireless Access Point Rob Williams

Aug 2002

 One advantage this newer standard has over 802.11b systems is that it runs on the 5GHz frequency band where it will not get any interference from 2.4 GHz devices such as cordless phones etc. Also, by adding 128 bit RC4 and 152 bit RC4 data encryption there should be no need to worry about data security.
SB Pro100 Firewall & Internet Sharing Box Rob Williams

Apr 2002

 The Nexland Pro100 firewall has some very advanced features that will meet the needs of the most advanced users such as a need to run a VPN (virtual private network) through the firewall to your office network. Keeping your corporate network secure means not just the local network secure, but the small branch offices or telecommuters working from home that connect up to your system.
Understanding Home Networks Michael Wolf

Feb 2002

 This book may help you unravel some of the mysteries of networking and will for certain give you a great overview of the topic.
Bridging the Automation/IP Gap Derek R. Flickinger http://www.interactivehomesinc.com/

Dec 2001

 The Archronix ArcWay ZigBee to WSDL gateway allows two sets of standardized yet disparate technologies to communicate with each other. You can buy products from a variety of vendors and they will be able to plug and play together.
Proxim SymphonyHRF Cordless Network Bob Hetherington

Sep 2001

 For a simple home network focusing on internet sharing and a bit of device and file sharing this is a great solution. Installation was simple and the engineers made sure most things are intuitive ... not too much network jargon. Support is only a phone call away and I had a pleasant experience with them too.
Owning the Customer Mr. Moshe Shapira SerCoNet Ltd.

Aug 2001

 SerCoNet delivers a robust and cost-efficient home networking solution -- without requiring additional wiring. Household-wide network connectivity is achieved over existing telephone wires through the simple replacement of existing telephone outlets with SerCoNet's smart electronic outlets.
Compaq iPAQ Connection Point David Chapin Compaq

Aug 2001

 iPAQ Connection Point is one of the newest members of the Compaq iPAQ family providing innovative Internet solutions with access anywhere, anytime. iPAQ Connection Point is a residential gateway bridging the home or small office network to the Internet. It allows consumers to experience high speed Internet with built-in firewall security, wireless freedom and easy networking.
ORiNOCO USB Client Bob Hetherington

Jun 2001

 The access point or residential gateway, RG-1000 or any other 802.11b (Wi-Fi) compliant access point simply sends the radio signals to the USB Client. The USB Client receives them and transmits the signals to the desktop PC via the USB connector.
D-Link DI-713 Wireless Network Adapter Ken Sinclair AutomatedBuildings.com

May 2001

 The DI-713 works well with great potential in the Home as well as the Automated Buildings industry. The wireless range should completely cover small buildings and cover the complete floor of a large building when plugged into the LAN connection on each floor.
Social Trends Wayne Caswell

Jan 2001

 In this last of a three-part series, I will explore some of the Social and Demographic trends that are driving the development of the Networked Home. The first article covered Science and Technology Trends, and the second focused on Market and Consumer trends. As always, your comments and suggestions are encouraged.
Orinoco RG-1000 Residential Gateway Bob Hetherington

Dec 2000

 I must admit this is my first good experience with wireless networking so I'm pretty hyped about the convenience. There may be better or cheaper systems out there that I haven't tried yet but as far as I'm concerned the RG 1000 does the job that I need to get my work done every day ... and that's what is most important to me at this point. It's definitely a keeper.
Networking Trends Wayne Caswell

Dec 2000

 This is the second of three articles that examine key trends enabling and driving the development of the Networked Home. The first article covered Science and Technology Trends while this one discusses Market and Consumer Trends. The final installment will address Social and Demographic Trends. As always, your comments and suggestions are encouraged.
D-Link DI-701 Broadband Gateway Rob Williams

Oct 2000

 For only $99.00 for the DI-701 you will gain very effective protection and it also has a very fast install. The worry about being hacked into is real and if you want to see, as I did, load up some intrusion detection software and you will discover that there are people scanning and looking for easy vulnerable prey. Don't be one of them.
20 Techno Trends Wayne Caswell

Sep 2000

 This is the first of three articles that will each examine key trends enabling and driving the development of the Networked Home. The first article covers Science and Technology Trends, followed by articles on Market and Consumer Trends, and finally Social and Economic Trends. Your comments and suggestions are encouraged.
Get Connected! Jay McLellan Home Automation Inc.

Aug 2000

 Consumers need proper wiring and components to link their computers together and to the Internet. Like power windows in cars, these features will ultimately be in every home built. If a security installer doesn't have the know-how and expertise to integrate a customer's security/home automation system, he is losing business.
HA Home & Away Jim Frazer Surf Networks, Inc.

Jun 2000

 The power of a home network is not solely the system intelligence experienced by the home owner while at home. It is the aggregate value of the cost, and time savings coupled with the value of new, revolutionary features experienced both inside and outside the home.
Case Study-Sweden Adam Marsh Coactive Networks

Jun 2000

 Customers can communicate directly with appliances, devices, and systems in their homes by going to a private interactive web page where clicking on service icons allows them to monitor status and change settings. Customers can also use any touch tone telephone to access services, messages or alarms.
Wireless Networks Wayne Caswell

Apr 2000

 The cost of connecting PCs with radio waves instead of wires is now as low as $99 per system, and there are several technologies to choose from. But that's the problem - too many to choose from. Since a confused market doesn't buy, I'm dedicating this second HomeToys.com "mentor" article to positioning the three emerging wireless standards - Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11b, and HomeRF.
S3/Diamond HomeFree Phoneline - 10Mbps Tim Higgins

Feb 2000

 10Mbps over phoneline is here! True, at about $65 per computer, it's about 3X the cost of a 10baseT NIC. But as long as you have a phone jack in the room where you want to put a computer, you don't have to worry about drilling holes, snaking cables through walls, or settling for lower speed than a 10baseT network. Laptop users, however, will have to wait to join the party until a PCMCIA or USB product is available. (NetGear has announced a USB product, but S3/Diamond has not.) So if you've been holding off networking your computers together because you didn't want to install CAT5 cabling, wait no longer! The HomeFree Phoneline 10Mbps kit will have you up and running in no time!

Back To Article Topic Index

Search For Articles




More AV and Automation Industry Resources

 

 

More Technical eMagazine from LJB