Solwise 500Mbps HomePlugAV Smartlink User Manual

500Mbps HomePlugAV Smartlink
User Manual
Legal Notice
2012 © All rights reserved. Version 1.0
No part of this document may be reproduced, republished, or retransmitted in any form or by any means whatsoever, whether electronically or mechanically, including, but not limited to, by way of photocopying, recording, information recording, or through retrieval systems without the express written permission. We reserve the right to revise this document at any time without the obligation to notify any person and/or entity. All other company or product names mentioned are used for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND DAMAGES
THE PRODUCT AND THE SOFTWARES WITHIN ARE PROVIDED "AS IS," BASIS. THE MANUFACTURER AND MANUFACTURER’S RESELLERS (COLLECTIVELY REFERRED TO AS “THE SELLERS”) DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF NON­INFRINGEMENT, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OR ANY WARRANTIES ARISING FROM COURSE OF DEALING, COURSE OF PERFORMANCE, OR USAGE OF TRADE. IN NO EVENT WILL THE SELLERS BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES OR LOSS, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL WILLFUL, PUNITIVE, INCIDENTAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL, DAMAGES, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS PROFITS, OR DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS OF ANY CUSTOMER OR ANY THIRD PARTY ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR THE INABILITY TO USE THE PRODUCT OR THE SOFTWARES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THOSE RESULTING FROM DEFECTS IN THE PRODUCT OR SOFTWARE OR DOCUMENTATION, OR LOSS OR INACCURACY OF DATA OF ANY KIND, WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT OR ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY, EVEN IF THE PARTIES HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE RESULTS AND PERFORMANCE OF THE PRODUCT OR ITS SOFTWARE IS ASSUMED BY CUSTOMER. BECAUSE SOME STATES DO NOT ALLOW THE EXCLUSION OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY FOR DAMAGES, THE ABOVE LIMITATION MAY NOT APPLY TO THE PARTIES. IN NO EVENT WILL THE SELLERS’ TOTAL CUMULATIVE LIABILITY OF EACH AND EVERY KIND IN RELATION TO THE PRODUCT OR ITS SOFTWARE EXCEED THE AMOUNT PAID BY CUSTOMER FOR THE PRODUCT.
User Manual
Page 3 of 45
Contents
About the Product ..................................................................... 5
How Does It Work? .................................................................................................................... 5
Direct Connection ...................................................................................................................... 6
Package Contents ....................................................................................................... 7
Device Design ............................................................................................................. 7
Pairing the Device ..................................................................................................................... 9
How to Use Simple Connect.................................................................................................... 10
Resetting the Private Network Name ................................................................................ 10
Creating a Secured HomePlugAV Smartlink Network ....................................................... 11
Joining an Existing Secured HomePlugAV Smartlink Network .......................................... 17
Power Saving Mode ................................................................................................................ 24
Getting Started ........................................................................ 25
Plan Your Network ................................................................................................... 26
Local Network .......................................................................................................................... 26
Gaming Network ..................................................................................................................... 26
Entertainment Network .......................................................................................................... 27
Setup the HomePlugAV Smartlinks .......................................................................... 27
For Twin Pack ........................................................................................................................... 27
For Single Pack ........................................................................................................................ 28
About HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility ...................................... 29
Requirements ........................................................................................................... 29
Installation ............................................................................................................... 30
Opening HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility ................................................................... 31
The User Interface .................................................................................................... 31
Home ........................................................................................................................................ 32
Private Network Name ........................................................................................................... 33
Local Private Network Name .............................................................................................. 34
Remote Private Network Name ......................................................................................... 34
Simulate Simple Connect Button ........................................................................................ 35
Quality of Service .................................................................................................................... 36
Devices ..................................................................................................................................... 38
Firmware Upgrade ................................................................................................................... 39
User Manual
Appendix ................................................................................. 41
Frequently Asked Questions ..................................................................................... 41
FCC Statement .......................................................................................................... 44
User Manual
Page 5 of 45
About the Product
HomePlugAV Smarlink is ready to use out of the box and does not require the installation
of driver software to work. It can be connected to computers, routers, gaming consoles,
hubs, IPTV set-top boxes, and other Ethernet devices regardless of operating system.
How Does It Work?
HomePlugAV Smartlink utilizes the existing electrical wiring in the house as a path to
create a secured network of computers and Ethernet devices. With a maximum data rate
of up to 200 Mbps, HomePlugAV Smartlink can reliably handle high requirement
applications like broadband Internet, high definition video streaming, and Voice over IP.
HomePlugAV Smartlink converts digital signals to a complex analog signal that traverses
along the electrical wires. When receiving the analog signal, HomePlugAV Smartlink
converts the analog signal back to digital. To make the signal secured, a 128-bit AES
encryption is applied.
A HomePlugAV Smartlink device can only communicate with other HomePlugAV
Smartlink devices that use the same Private Network Name. The Private Network Name
can be changed manually using the HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility software on a
computer with a Windows operating system. When you use the software, you have to
manually type the Private Network Name for the device. Another way to change the
Private Network Name is to use the Simple Connect button. Simple Connect
automatically creates an encrypted Private Network Name. It can also be used to reset
the Private Network Name or to add a device into an existing HomePlugAV Smartlink
network.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: HomePlugAV Smartlink devices from the Twin Pack are already configured to use a common Private
Network Name unique for that pair and are ready to use. The HomePlugAV Smartlink from a Single Pack,
on the other hand, uses a random Private Network Name. You still need to change its Private Network
Name to allow it to communicate with an existing HomePlugAV Smartlink network.
When a HomePlugAV Smarlink communicates with another device, the Powerline Activity
LED color will give you an idea about the connection rate: Red means below 30 Mbps;
Amber means 30 to 80 Mbps; and Green means more than 80 Mbps.
User Manual
Direct Connection
For best performance, connect HomePlugAV Smartlink directly to a wall outlet. Avoid
connecting it to a power strip where other electrical devices are connected. Other devices
create electrical noise that may affect the performance of HomePlugAV Smartlink.
User Manual
Page 7 of 45
Package Contents
The package contains the following items:
1 HomePlugAV Smartlink for Single Pack or 2 HomePlugAV Smartlink for Twin Pack
1 Ethernet cable for Single Pack or 2 Ethernet cables for Twin Pack
Resource CD that contains the HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility installer and the User
Manual.
Easy Start Guide
Device Design
User Manual
Label
LabelLabel
Label Status
StatusStatus
Status Description/ Function
Description/ FunctionDescription/ Function
Description/ Function
A
Power
PowerPower
Power
Blinking slowly
When LED is blinking slowly in Green color HomePlugAV Smartlink is on a Power Saving status.
Off No power.
On After Simple Connect is pressed for two
seconds, this LED will blink to confirm the button press.
When Simple Connect is pressed for 10
seconds, this LED will blink to confirm the Private Network Name reset.
B
Powerline Activity
Powerline ActivityPowerline Activity
Powerline Activity
Off Device is not connected to a HomePlugAV Smartlink
network.
On This LED remains on when the device is part of
a HomePlugAV Smartlink network.
The LED colors represents the connection rate
within the HomePlugAV Smartlink network whether it is good (red), better (amber), or best (green).
The LED flashes to indicate network activity.
C Ethernet Activity
Ethernet ActivityEthernet Activity
Ethernet Activity
Off An Ethernet device is not connected.
On An Ethernet device is connected.
The LED flashes to indicate Ethernet activity.
D
Simple Connect Button
Simple Connect ButtonSimple Connect Button
Simple Connect Button
Press to create or join a HomePlugAV Smartlink
network. It can also be used to reset the Private Network Name to a random key.
E
Ethernet Port
Ethernet PortEthernet Port
Ethernet Port Accepts either cross or straight Ethernet cable.
F
Reset Button
Reset ButtonReset Button
Reset Button Press for 2 seconds to reset to the factory default
settings. When you reset to the factory default, all your configuration changes will be removed.
User Manual
Page 9 of 45
Pairing the Device
Your HomePlugAV Smartlink devices by default are preconfigured to have a common
Private Network Name. Setting up your HomePlugAV network is as easy as 1,2 and 3.
1. Plug in your HomePlugAV Smartlink devices side by side to easily observe the LED
behavior. Wait until the Power and PL-ACT LED turns ON to confirm that the
connection has been established.
2. In Location A plug in your HomePlugAV Smartlink into the wall socket then
connect it to your Modem/Router’s Ethernet LAN port using an Ethernet cable.
3. In Location B plug in your HomePlugAV Smartlink into the wall socket then
connect it to your computer’s Ethernet Port using an Ethernet cable. Your
HomePlugAV Smartlink is now ready for use.
User Manual
Page 10 of 45
How to Use Simple Connect
Simple Connect provides a more convenient way of creating your HomePlugAV Smartlink
network without the need to open the HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility software from a
computer. The button has three main functions which include:
Resetting the Private Network Name
Creating a Secured HomePlugAV Smartlink Network
Joining an existing Secured HomePlugAV Smartlink Network
Resetting the Private Network Name
Simple Connect allows you to reset the HomePlugAV Smartlink’s Private Network Name
to a random key. When a HomePlugAV Smartlink is reset to a random key, it will not be
able to communicate with any other device.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: Resetting the Private Network Name is different from resetting the device to its factory default
settings. If you intend to reset the device to its factory default settings, press RESET on the device.
Simple Connect Button
User Manual
Page 11 of 45
To reset the Private Network Name using Simple Connect:
Creating a Secured HomePlugAV Smartlink Network
To create a HomePlugAV Smartlink network, you need at least two HomePlugAV
Smartlink devices using random Private Network Names. When you press Simple Connect
for 10 seconds on both devices, a common Private Network Name will be automatically
generated to enable them to communicate with each other.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: New HomePlugAV Smartlink can already communicate with each other out of the box. However, if
you intend to create a new Private Network Name using Simple Connect for both devices, you need to
reset their Private Network Names to a random key before proceeding.
Step 1
Press Simple Connect button for 10
seconds or wait until ALL LED blinks. The
Powerline Activity LED will switch OFF
on both units.
Step 2
Do the same procedure on unit 2 to reset
its Private Network Name. Press the
Simple Connect button for 2 seconds on
both units to pair the devices.
User Manual
Page 12 of 45
To create a Secured HomePlugAV Smartlink network using Simple Connect:
Step 1
Plug your
HomePlugAV Smartlink
s side by side where you can easily observe the LED
behavior.
Upon connection, the LEDs will blink simultaneously and then the Power LED lights on
steadily.
Press the Simple Connect button of the HomePlugAV Smartlink X for ten seconds. All LED
will blink indicating that the Private Network Name has been randomize.
Press the Simple Connect button of the HomePlugAV Smartlink Y for ten seconds. All LED
will blink indicating that the Private Network Name has been randomize.
User Manual
Page 13 of 45
Step 2
Press
Simple Connect
for two seconds on HomePlug X.
A
fter you release the button, the
Power LED will blink. If the Power LED did not blink, press Simple Connect again for
two seconds.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: Do not press Simple Connect for more than 2 seconds.
Blinking
User Manual
Page 14 of 45
Step 3
Press
Simple Connect
for two seconds on HomePlug Y.
A
fter you release the button, the
Power LED will blink. If the Power LED did not blink, press Simple Connect again for
two seconds.
Make sure to press Simple Connect on HomePlug Y within two minutes after you press
Simple Connect on HomePlug X.
The LEDs on both devices will switch off and on twice to signify that they are paired with
another device.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: Do not press Simple Connect for more than 2 seconds
Blinking
Blinking
User Manual
Page 15 of 45
Step 4
To confirm if the connection was established, check the LEDs. The Power LEDs and the
Powerline Activity LEDs on both HomePlugs are ON.
When the Powerline Activity LED
on either HomePlug
X or HomePlug
Y is off
,
this
means the pairing is not successful. In this case, you need to redo the entire process
again.
User Manual
Page 16 of 45
Step 5
Unplug the HomePlugAV Smartlinks and then connect them to your Ethernet devices
using the Ethernet cables from the product package. After connecting the Ethernet cable,
plug the HomePlugs directly to a wall outlet.
An Ethernet-enabled device can be a router, computer, hub, gaming console, IP phone,
network printer, or IP TV set-top box.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: HomePlugAV Smartlinks work best when connected directly to a wall socket. Avoid plugging it to a
power strip or power extension. Other electrical devices in the power strip produce electrical noise that
may affect the performance of the HomePlug.
User Manual
Page 17 of 45
Joining an Existing Secured HomePlugAV Smartlink Network
To enable a new device to join an existing network, Simple Connect will copy the Private
Network Name of the existing network to the new HomePlugAV Smartlink. If you pressed
Simple Connect from multiple HomePlugAV Smartlinks, only the signal from the first two
devices will be processed.
To join an existing Secured HomePlugAV Smartlink network using Simple Connect:
Step 1
Plug
HomePl
ugAV Smartlink
Z beside one of your existing
HomePlugAV Smartlink
device.
Make sure you can easily observe the LED behavior.
Upon connection, HomePlug Z’s LEDs will blink simultaneously and then the Power LED
lights ON steadily. Ethernet LED will be ON if there is an ethernet link.
User Manual
Page 18 of 45
Step 2
Press Simple Connect
for
ten
seconds
from a
HomePlugAV Smartlink
Z. After you release
the button, All LED will blink. The Power LED will stay ON.
Note:
If the all LED did not blink, press Simple Connect again for ten seconds.
Step 3
Press Simple Connect Button
for two seconds
on the existing
HomePlugAV Smartlink
device. After you release the button, the Power LED will continuously blink. If the
Power LED did not blink, press Simple Connect again for two seconds.
Make sure to press Simple Connect Button again on the HomePlugAV Smartlink Z within
two minutes after you press Simple Connect from the existing network.
User Manual
Page 19 of 45
User Manual
Page 20 of 45
Step 4
To confirm if the connection was established, check the LEDs. The Power LEDs and the
Powerline Activity LEDs on all HomePlugs are on.
User Manual
Page 21 of 45
If the Powerline Activity LED
on
HomePlug Z is off
,
this means the pairing was not
successful. You need to repeat the process again.
Step 5
Unplug HomePlug Z and then connect it to your Ethernet device using the Ethernet cables
from the product package. After connecting the Ethernet cable, plug HomePlug Z directly
to a wall outlet. An Ethernet-enabled device can be a router, computer, hub, gaming
console, IP phone, network printer, or IP TV set-top box.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: HomePlugAV Smartlinks work best when connected directly to a wall socket. Avoid plugging it to a
power strip or power extension. The other electrical devices in the power strip create noise that may affect
the performance of the HomePlug.
User Manual
Page 22 of 45
User Manual
Page 23 of 45
Determining Connection Rate
Each LED color of the Powerline Activity represents a connection rating. The connection
rating can only be calculated when the device is part of an existing network. The exact
connection rate value can also be viewed using HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility.
Good (Red)
Better (Amber)
Best (Green)
Connection rate is less than 30 Mbps
Connection rate is
between 30 to 80 Mbps
Connection rate is
more than 80 Mbps
User Manual
Page 24 of 45
Power Saving Mode
When Power LED blinks slowly in Green color HomePlugAV Smartlink is on a Power saving status.
Conditions for HomePlugAV Smartlink to go on a Power saving mode:
- Will go on a power saving mode after 15mins.
- There should be no Ethernet link.
- When connected to a PC or Laptop there should be no power on the network card
when the computer is OFF.
User Manual
Page 25 of 45
Getting Started
Setting up the device is easy. The flowchart below provides an outline of the steps you
need to complete the installation. There are brief descriptions beside each step to help
you along. Detailed instructions are provided in the subsequent pages.
Setup the
HomePlugAV
Smartlink
s
Plan your Network
Ready to Use
(Optional)
Install HomePlugAV
Smartlink
Utility
Use an Ethernet cable to connect HomePlugAV Smartlink to your computer or Ethernet device.
Install HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility to apply manual configuration changes and monitor device activity.
User Manual
Page 26 of 45
Plan Your Network
Here are ideas on how you can plan your HomePlugAV Smartlink network.
Local Network
Share ultra fast Internet connection with any computer wherever it is in the house.
Gaming Network
Connect your gaming console to the Internet and compete with other online players.
User Manual
Page 27 of 45
Entertainment Network
Experience IP TV streaming into your home entertainment system.
Setup the HomePlugAV Smartlinks
For Twin Pack
HomePlugAV Smartlinks from a Twin Pack are preconfigured to have a common Private
Network Name unique for that pair. All you need to do is connect the HomePlugAV
Smartlinks to an Ethernet device and then plug it to a wall socket.
To setup a pair of HomePlugAV Smartlinks:
1. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable to your Ethernet device and then connect the
other end to HomePlugAV Smartlink.
2. Connect the HomePlugAV Smartlink to a wall socket.
3. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable to your other Ethernet device and then
connect the other end to HomePlugAV Smartlink.
4. Connect the HomePlugAV Smartlink to a wall socket.
User Manual
Page 28 of 45
For Single Pack
A HomePlugAV Smartlink from a single pack uses a random Private Network Name that
prevents it from communicating with other HomePlugAV Smartlinks. To add it into an
existing network, you need to use either the Simple Connect button or the HomePlugAV
Smartlink Utility software to change the random Private Network Name to the Private
Network Name being used by the existing HomePlugAV Smartlink network.
To add a HomePlugAV Smartlink to an existing network:
1. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable to your Ethernet device and then connect the
other end to HomePlugAV Smartlink.
2. Connect the HomePlugAV Smartlink to a wall socket.
3. Add the new HomePlugAV Smartlink by using either Simple Connect or the
HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility software. To use Simple Connect, please refer to
Joining an Existing HomePlugAV Smartlink Network. To use HomePlugAV Smartlink
Utility, please refer to Private Network Name.
User Manual
Page 29 of 45
About HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility
HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility is a software application that allows you to configure
HomePlugAV Smartlink. It is mainly used for changing the Private Network Name,
detecting other HomePlugAV Smartlink’s in the network, and measuring the throughput
of devices. Installation is straightforward and the user interface is easy to use.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: To use HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility, you need a computer using a Windows operating system with
the .NET Framework installed. If you do not have .NET installed, the HomePlugAV Smartlink installer will
installer it for you.
Requirements
Your computer must meet the following requirements:
Windows XP (32 and 64 bit), or Vista (32 and 64 bit) 300 MHz Processor 128 Mb of RAM .NET Framework Windows Installer 3.1 for Windows XP (32 and 64 bit) Network Interface Card CD-ROM 128 Mb of free hard disk space
User Manual
Page 30 of 45
Installation
To install HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility:
1. Insert the Resource CD that comes with HomePlugAV Smartlink into the CD-ROM
drive.
2. Click the Start button, and then click Run.
3. In the Run dialog box, type D:\Setup.exe (where D: is your CD-ROM drive), and
then click OK.
4. Follow the instructions on the installation wizard.
Two applications will be installed in your computer - HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility
will be installed first followed by .NET Framework. The installer detects any
version of .NET Framework in your computer. If .NET Framework is not installed, a
dialog box opens to ask if you would like to install .NET Framework. Click Yes. The
.NET Framework will not be installed if the required version is already in your
computer.
Operating System
Operating SystemOperating System
Operating System .NET Framework version to be installed
.NET Framework version to be installed.NET Framework version to be installed
.NET Framework version to be installed
XP /Vista/Windows 7 32-bit .NET Framework 3.5 SP 1 32-bit
XP /Vista/Windows 7 64-bit .NET Framework 3.5 SP 1 64-bit
User Manual
Page 31 of 45
Opening HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility
Two ways to open HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility:
Right-click the HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility desktop shortcut and then select
Open.
Click the Start button, click Programs, click HomePlugAV Smartlink, click
HomePlugAV Smartlink Ethernet Adapter, and then click HomePlugAV Smartlink
Utility.
The User Interface
The HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility user interface is divided into tabs. These tabs include:
Home Private Network Name Quality of Service Devices Firmware Upgrade
User Manual
Page 32 of 45
Home
Home provides a list of all the possible tasks you can perform in the HomePlugAV
Smartlink Utility. To start a task, you first need to select the network card connected to
your HomePlugAV Smartlink. This is most helpful when you have more than one network
card in your computer. When you select a network card, the MAC Address of the
HomePlugAV Smartlink connected to your computer appears. If there is no HomePlugAV
Smartlink connected to your computer, no MAC address will appear.
After selecting the network card, there are four possible tasks you can perform. These
tasks include:
Change the Private Network Name
Change the QoS settings
View devices in the network
Upgrade the firmware
When you select any task, you will be forwarded to the tab for the selected task.
Home
HomeHome
Home
User Manual
Page 33 of 45
Private Network Name
Private Network Name provides the function to manually change the Private Network
Name of local and remote HomePlugAV Smartlinks. A Private Network Name is a string
of 8 to 64 characters enables HomePlugAV Smartlink devices to communicate with each
other.
If you intend to create multiple networks, you can assign different Private Network
Names among your devices. You have to, however, make sure that at least two
HomePlugAV Smartlinks have a similar Private Network Name. A HomePlugAV Smartlink
that uses a unique or random Private Network Name will not be able to communicate
with other devices.
Private Network Name
Private Network NamePrivate Network Name
Private Network Name
Note:
Note: Note:
Note: In case you cannot connect into the network after changing the Private Network Name, please
power cycle the device. To power cycle, disconnect and then reconnect HomePlugAV Smartlink from the
power outlet.
User Manual
Page 34 of 45
Local Private Network Name
Local Private Network Name refers to the Private Network Name of the HomePlugAV
Smartlink that is directly connected to the computer where you use HomePlugAV
Smartlink Utility.
To change the local Private Network Name:
1. Open HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility.
2. Click Private Network Name.
3. Type the new Private Network Name. This field is case sensitive. It accepts 8 to 64
alphanumeric characters including punctuation marks but no spaces.
4. Click Apply. When the process is complete, the message Settings Applied appears.
Remote Private Network Name
Without leaving your computer, you can change the Private Network Name of remote
HomePlugAV Smartlink devices, provided they are using the same Private Network Name
as your local HomePlugAV Smartlink. You cannot change the Private Network Name of
remote devices that is not currently networked with your local HomePlugAV Smartlink.
Note:
Note: Note:
Note: When changing the Private Network Name of remote devices, you will need the Device ID that
appears on the label pasted on the device. It will be more helpful if you list down the Device ID of all your
HomePlugAV Smartlinks to enable you to remotely change their settings using the HomePlugAV Smartlink
Utility software.
To change the Private Network Name of a remote HomePlugAV Smartlink:
1. Open HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility.
2. Click Private Network Name.
3. Type the new Private Network Name. This field is case sensitive. It accepts 8 to 64
alphanumeric characters including punctuation marks but no spaces.
4. Select Change Private Network Name of remote device.
User Manual
Page 35 of 45
5. Type the Device ID of the remote device. The Device ID can be found on the label
pasted on the device.
6. Click Apply. When the process is complete, the message Settings Applied appears.
After changing the Private Network Name of the remote HomePlugAV Smartlink,
it will no longer be able to communicate with your local HomePlugAV Smartlink,
unless you use a similar Private Network Name for your local HomePlugAV
Smartlink.
Simulate Simple Connect Button
Simulate Simple Connect Button allows you to apply functionalities without manually
pressing the Simple Connect button on a HomePlugAV Smartlink device. However, this
only works on local devices.
Simple Connect
Simple ConnectSimple Connect
Simple Connect Select to search and pair with another device, or search and join
an existing HomePlugAV Smartlink network.
NMK Randomize
NMK RandomizeNMK Randomize
NMK Randomize Select to reset to a random Private Network Name. A
HomePlugAV Smartlink using a random Private Network Name will be
disconnected from the HomePlug network and will not be able to communicate
with other devices until it forms a new network or joins an existing network.
AVLN
AVLNAVLN
AVLN Status
StatusStatus
Status Displays the HomePlugAV Smartlink Logical Network membership
status number.
Note:
Note:Note:
Note: The Simulate Simple Connect Button functions from HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility can be used for
HomePlugAV Smartlink versions with or without the Simple Connect button on the device.
User Manual
Page 36 of 45
To simulate a Simple Connect function:
1. Connect HomePlugAV Smartlink to your computer.
2. Select a Simulate Simple Connect Button action: a. Simple Connect b. PNN Randomize c. AVLN Status
3. Click Simulate Button Push.
Quality of Service
Quality of Service gives you the capability to prioritize particular applications within your
network. QoS is not enabled by default.
Quality of Service
Quality of ServiceQuality of Service
Quality of Service
User Manual
Page 37 of 45
QoS Modes:
Online Game/Internet
Online Game/Internet Online Game/Internet
Online Game/Internet Prioritizes data streaming
Audio or Video
Audio or Video Audio or Video
Audio or Video Prioritizes data streaming multimedia streaming
Voice over IP
Voice over IPVoice over IP
Voice over IP Prioritizes voice applications
To enable QoS:
1. Open HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility.
2. Click Quality of Service.
3. Check Enable QoS.
4. Select a QoS mode.
5. Click Apply. When the process is complete, the message Settings Applied appears.
User Manual
Page 38 of 45
Devices
Devices displays information about remote HomePlugAV Smartlink’s detected in the
network. Only HomePlugAV Smartlinks using the same Private Network Name as the
local HomePlugAV Smartlink will appear in the Remote Devices list.
Devices
DevicesDevices
Devices
Devices displays the following information:
TEI
TEITEI
TEI Displays the Terminal Equipment Identifier.
De
DeDe
Device MAC address
vice MAC address vice MAC address
vice MAC address Displays the HomePlugAV Smartlink MAC Address.
Bridge MAC Address
Bridge MAC Address Bridge MAC Address
Bridge MAC Address Displays the MAC Address of the Ethernet network adapter
connected to the HomePlugAV Smartlink.
Connection Rate
Connection Rate Connection Rate
Connection Rate Displays the Transmit and Receive connection rates.
User Manual
Page 39 of 45
Firmware Upgrade
Use Firmware Upgrade to upgrade firmware of HomePlugAV Smartlink. After upgrading
the firmware, HomePlugAV Smartlink will still retain the same Private Network Name
and MAC address settings. Before you proceed with the upgrade, you need to have both
the configuration file (PIB extension) and the firmware file (NVM extension). You can
download upgrade files from the product’s Web site.
Firmware Upgrade
Firmware UpgradeFirmware Upgrade
Firmware Upgrade
To upgrade the firmware of a HomePlugAV Smartlink:
1. Connect HomePlugAV Smartlink to the computer where you are using
HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility.
2. Open HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility.
3. Click Firmware Upgrade.
4. Click Browse to select the location of the configuration and firmware files. The
configuration file has a PIB extension while the firmware file has an NVM
extension. After you select the location of the configuration and firmware files,
the upgrade will immediately start.
User Manual
Page 40 of 45
To reset to factory default:
1. Connect HomePlugAV Smartlink to the computer where you are using
HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility.
2. Open HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility.
3. Click Factory Default.
Note:
Note: Note:
Note: You can also perform a reset to the factory default when you press the RESET button on the device
for 2 seconds.
User Manual
Page 41 of 45
Appendix
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use HomePlugAV Smartlink with older HomePlug versions?
All HomePlugAV Smartlink versions can communicate with each other. HomePlugAV
Smartlink, however, is not backward compatible with HomePlug 1.0 releases.
If you will use different versions of HomePlugAV Smartlink in a single network, you need
to use the HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility software to create a Private Network Name for
all devices. Unlike the new version of HomePlugAV Smartlink, older versions do not
feature the Simple Connect button, which enables the device to create a common Private
Network Name without using the software.
How does HomePlugAV Smartlink achieve a higher bandwidth than HomePlug Turbo and HomePlug 1.0 devices?
HomePlugAV Smartlink complies with the HomePlugAV Smartlink standard. It achieves
higher data throughput by using a broader frequency spectrum (2-30 MHz rather than 4-
21 MHz), by using a better access method (Time Division Multiple Access rather than
Carrier Sense Multiple Access/Collision Detection), and by using a better processor with a
greater bitload per Hz.
Can HomePlugAV Smartlink be used alongside HomePlug 1.0 devices within the network?
HomePlug 1.0 and HomePlugAV Smartlink standards can coexist but they will not be able
to communicate with each other.
Which operating system (OS) is compatible with HomePlugAV Smartlink?
HomePlugAV Smartlink is operating system independent. However, the HomePlugAV
Smartlink Utility requires a Windows operating system (XP/Vista/Windows 7) with the
.NET Framework 3.5 SP 1
.NET Framework 3.5 SP 1.NET Framework 3.5 SP 1
.NET Framework 3.5 SP 1 installed.
How difficult is it to set up a network with HomePlugAV Smartlink?
HomePlugAV Smartlink is a plug and play device. Connect it to an Ethernet device, plug it
to a wall socket, and it is ready to use. Even the most inexperienced user can set up the
User Manual
Page 42 of 45
network with ease. Installing the HomePlugAV Smartlink Utility software is only needed if
you intend to manually change the Private Network Name or view the connection rate.
How many devices do I need to create a HomePlugAV Smartlink network?
At least two devices are needed to create a HomePlugAV Smartlink network.
Is HomePlugAV Smartlink suitable for triple play like the simultaneous use of data, voice, and video applications?
Yes, triple play is supported.
What data transfer rates do I need for high definition TV?
A variety of HDTV resolutions are available. The following are the most common
resolutions opposite the required transfer rate:
720p, mpeg2: 09-10 Mbps
720p, mpeg4: 06-08 Mbps
1080i, mpeg2: 12-15 Mbps
1080i, mpeg4: 08-10 Mbps
Does HomePlugAV Smartlink have a security mechanism?
Yes. HomePlugAV Smartlink uses 128-bit AES encryption.
Are Gigabit Ethernet adapters required for use with HomePlugAV Smartlink?
No. Under ideal conditions, HomePlugAV Smartlink has a physical gross data rate of up to
200 Mbps. The effective net data rate is somewhat lower. A 100 Mbps Ethernet adapter
is therefore adequate in most cases.
Does the technology support multicast video server streams (IP-TV)?
Yes.
User Manual
Page 43 of 45
Do I need an Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) for HomePlugAV Smartlink?
No. HomePlugAV Smartlink can operate in an environment using 100-240V.
What is the maximum range of HomePlugAV Smartlink?
The maximum range is 200 meters.
If one HomePlugAV Smartlink is connected to a LAN switch, is it possible for other computers in the switch to communicate with other HomePlugAV Smartlink devices?
Yes.
Can my neighbors access my HomePlugAV Smartlink network?
Your electric meter prevents any signal from going outside your household. However, we
strongly suggest that you create your own personalized Private Network Name to
prevent unauthorized access into your network.
Can I use HomePlugAV Smartlink to connect computers located in different floors of the building?
Yes, as long as the electric wires are connected and do not exceed 200 meters.
Can I use HomePlugAV Smartlink in an old house with old power supply lines (partly without separated ground wire)?
Yes. However, performance may be affected because of the quality of the wires.
Can I plug HomePlugAV Smartlink into a multiple socket switch or do I have to plug it directly to the wall socket?
You can plug HomePlugAV Smartlink into a multiple socket switch. However, we strongly
advise to plug it directly to a wall socket to achieve optimal performance.
Do I need electrical grounding for the device?
HomePlugAV Smartlink does not require electrical grounding.
After a blackout, will HomePlugAV Smartlink switch on automatically?
Yes. If you experience connection issues, unplug the device and plug it back.
User Manual
Page 44 of 45
What will happen if I connect two HomePlugAV Smartlinks to the same router?
This will cause collision and slow down the network traffic. To prevent collision, you need
to assign different Private Network Names on each HomePlugAV Smartlink.
FCC Statement
This equipment has been tested and complies with the specifications for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used according to the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which is found by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment or devices Connect the equipment to an outlet other than the receiver’s Consult a dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for assistance
European Regulations
The product has been designed, tested and manufactured according to the European R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC.
User Manual
Page 45 of 45
Safety Warnings
For your safety, be sure to read and follow all warning notices and instructions.
Do not open the device. Opening or removing the device cover can expose you to
dangerous high voltage points or other risks. Only qualified service personnel can
service the device. Please contact your vendor for further information.
Do not use your device during a thunderstorm. There may be a risk of electric
shock brought about by lightning.
Do not expose your device to dust or corrosive liquids. Do not use this product near water sources. Make sure to connect the cables to the correct ports. Do not obstruct the ventilation slots on the device.
Loading...