ZyXEL Communications 100 User Manual

PL-100

PowerLine 85 Mbps Ethernet Adapter

User’s Guide

Version 1.00

9/2005

PL-100 User’s Guide

Copyright © 2005 by ZyXEL Communications Corporation.

The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any part or as a whole, transcribed,
stored in a retrieval system, translated into any language, or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, photocopying, manual, or
otherwise, without the prior written permission of ZyXEL Communications Corporation.

Published by ZyXEL Communications Corporation. All rights reserved.

Disclaimer

ZyXEL does not assume any liability arising out of the application or use of any products, or
software described herein. Neither does it convey any license under its patent rights nor the
patent rights of others. ZyXEL further reserves the right to make changes in any products
described herein without notice. This publication is subject to change without notice.

Copyright

Trademarks

ZyNOS (ZyXEL Network Operating System) is a registered trademark of ZyXEL
Communications, Inc. Other trademarks mentioned in this publication are used for
identification purposes only and may be properties of their respective owners.

2 Copyright

PL-100 User’s Guide

Federal Communications

Commission (FCC) Interference

Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference.

• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operations.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits 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 commercial environment. This equipment
generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in
accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.

If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can
be determined 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 and the receiver.

• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.

• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or TV technician for help.

Notice 1

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance
could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

Certifications

1 Go to www.zyxel.com.

2 Select your product from the drop-down list box on the ZyXEL home page to go to that

product's page.

3 Select the certification you wish to view from this page.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Interference Statement 3

PL-100 User’s Guide

For your safety, be sure to read and follow all warning notices and instructions.

• Do NOT open the device or unit. Opening or removing covers 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.

• Connect the power cord to the right supply voltage (110V AC in North America or 230V
AC in Europe).

• Place connecting cables carefully so that no one will step on them or stumble over them.
Do NOT allow anything to rest on the power cord and do NOT locate the product where
anyone can walk on the power cord.

• If you wall mount your device, make sure that no electrical, gas or water pipes will be
damaged.

• Do NOT install nor use your device during a thunderstorm. There may be a remote risk of
electric shock from lightning.

• Do NOT expose your device to dampness, dust or corrosive liquids.

• Do NOT use this product near water, for example, in a wet basement or near a swimming
pool.

• Make sure to connect the cables to the correct ports.

• Do NOT obstruct the device ventilation slots, as insufficient airflow may harm your
device.

• Do NOT store things on the device.

• Connect ONLY suitable accessories to the device.

Safety Warnings

4 Safety Warnings

PL-100 User’s Guide

ZyXEL Limited Warranty

ZyXEL warrants to the original end user (purchaser) that this product is free from any defects
in materials or workmanship for a period of up to two years from the date of purchase. During
the warranty period, and upon proof of purchase, should the product have indications of failure
due to faulty workmanship and/or materials, ZyXEL will, at its discretion, repair or replace the
defective products or components without charge for either parts or labor, and to whatever
extent it shall deem necessary to restore the product or components to proper operating
condition. Any replacement will consist of a new or re-manufactured functionally equivalent
product of equal value, and will be solely at the discretion of ZyXEL. This warranty shall not
apply if the product is modified, misused, tampered with, damaged by an act of God, or
subjected to abnormal working conditions.

Note

Repair or replacement, as provided under this warranty, is the exclusive remedy of the
purchaser. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including any
implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular use or purpose. ZyXEL shall in
no event be held liable for indirect or consequential damages of any kind of character to the
purchaser.

To obtain the services of this warranty, contact ZyXEL's Service Center for your Return
Material Authorization number (RMA). Products must be returned Postage Prepaid. It is
recommended that the unit be insured when shipped. Any returned products without proof of
purchase or those with an out-dated warranty will be repaired or replaced (at the discretion of
ZyXEL) and the customer will be billed for parts and labor. All repaired or replaced products
will be shipped by ZyXEL to the corresponding return address, Postage Paid. This warranty
gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from country to
country.

ZyXEL Limited Warranty 5

PL-100 User’s Guide

Please have the following information ready when you contact customer support.

• Product model and serial number.

• Warranty Information.

• Date that you received your device.

• Brief description of the problem and the steps you took to solve it.

Customer Support

METHOD

LOCATION

CORPORATE
HEADQUARTERS
(WORLDWIDE)

CZECH REPUBLIC

DENMARK

FINLAND

FRANCE

GERMANY

NORTH AMERICA

NORWAY

SPAIN

SWEDEN

SUPPORT E-MAIL TELEPHONE

SALES E-MAIL FAX FTP SITE

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.com

[e-mail] [phone] ftp.zyxel.com

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.cz ZyXEL Communications

[e-mail] [phone]

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.dk Z y X E L C o m m u n i c a t i o n s A / S

[e-mail] [phone]

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.fi ZyXEL Communications Oy

[e-mail] [phone]

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.fr Z yX E L F r an c e

[phone]

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.de ZyXEL Deutschland GmbH.

[e-mail] [phone]

[e-mail] [phone]

[phone]

[e-mail] [phone] ftp.us.zyxel.com

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.no Z y X E L C o m m u n i c a t i o n s A / S

[e-mail] [phone]

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.es Z y X E L C o mm u n i c a t i o n s

[e-mail] [phone]

[e-mail] [phone] www.zyxel.se ZyXEL Communications A/S

[e-mail] [phone]

A

WEB SITE

www.europe.zyxel.com

ftp.europe.zyxel.com

www.us.zyxel.com ZyXEL Communications Inc.

REGULAR MAIL

ZyXEL Communications Corp.
6 I nn ovat ion R oad I I

Sc ien ce P ar k
Hs inc hu 3 00
Ta iw a n

Czech s.r.o.
Modranská 621
143 01 Praha 4 - Modrany
Ceská Republika

Col um bu sv ej 5
2860 Soeborg
Denmark

Mal mi nk aa ri 10
00700 Helsinki
Finland

1 ru e d e s V er ge r s
Ba t. 1 / C
69760 Limonest
France

Adenauerstr. 20/A2 D-52146
Wuerselen
Germany

1130 N. Miller St.
An ah eim

CA 92806-2001
U.S.A.

Ni ls H ans en s ve i 13
0667 Oslo
Norway

Alejandro Villegas 33
1º, 28043 Madrid
Spain

Sjöporten 4, 41764 Göteborg
Sweden

6 Customer Support

PL-100 User’s Guide

METHOD

LOCATION

UNITED KINGDOM

SUPPORT E-MAIL TELEPHONE

SALES E-MAIL FAX FTP SITE

[e-mail] [phone]

08707 555779 (UK only)

[e-mail] [phone] ftp.zyxel.co.uk

A

WEB SITE

www.zyxel.co.uk ZyXEL Communications UK

a. “+” is the (prefix) number you enter to make an international telephone call.

REGULAR MAIL

Ltd.,11 The Courtyard,
Eastern Road, Bracknell,
Berkshire, RG12 2XB,
United Kingdom (UK)

Customer Support 7

PL-100 User’s Guide

8 Customer Support

PL-100 User’s Guide

Table of Contents

Copyright .................................................................................................................. 2

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Interference Statement ............... 3

Safety Warnings ....................................................................................................... 4

ZyXEL Limited Warranty.......................................................................................... 5

Customer Support.................................................................................................... 6

Table of Contents ..................................................................................................... 9

List of Figures ........................................................................................................ 11

List of Tables .......................................................................................................... 13

Preface .................................................................................................................... 15

Chapter 1

Getting to Know Your PL-100................................................................................17

1.1 PL-100 PowerLine 85 Mbps Ethernet Adapter Overview ...................................17

1.2 Key Features ......................................................................................................17

1.3 System Requirements ........................................................................................18

1.4 Applications for the PL-100 ................................................................................18

1.4.1 Broadband Internet Access via Cable or DSL Modem .............................18

1.4.2 Connect a Computer, Printer or Game Device to a Network ....................18

1.4.3 Share Files, Printers and Other Devices ..................................................19

Chapter 2

Connecting the PL-100 ..........................................................................................21

2.1 Preparing to Install the PL-100 ...........................................................................21

2.2 Connecting the PL-100 ......................................................................................22

2.2.1 Connecting the PL-100 to Your Main Cable or DSL Modem ....................22

2.2.2 Connecting the PL-100 to a Computer .....................................................23

2.2.3 LED Status ................................................................................................24

Chapter 3

Installing the PL-100 Software .............................................................................. 25

3.1 Installation of the Utility ......................................................................................25

Table of Contents 9

PL-100 User’s Guide

Chapter 4

Using the Configuration Utility ............................................................................. 29

Chapter 5

Troubleshooting .....................................................................................................37

Appendix A

PL-100 Specifications ............................................................................................ 39

Appendix B

Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address.............................................................. 41

4.1 Configuration Utility Main Screen .......................................................................29

4.2 Privacy Screen ...................................................................................................32

4.3 Diagnostics Screen ............................................................................................33

4.4 About Screen .....................................................................................................35

5.1 Using LEDs to Diagnose a Problem ...................................................................37

5.1.1 PWR LED is Off ........................................................................................37

5.1.2 LINK LED is Off ........................................................................................37

5.1.3 ETHN LED is Off .......................................................................................37

Index........................................................................................................................ 53

10 Table of Contents

PL-100 User’s Guide

List of Figures

Figure 1 Connecting the PL-100 to a Broadband Modem.................................................... 22

Figure 2 Connecting the PL-100 to a Computer ................................................................. 23

Figure 3 PL-100 Top View With LED Lights ........................................................................ 24

Figure 4 InstallShield Wizard Start Screen .......................................................................... 25

Figure 5 Customer Information Input .................................................................................. 26

Figure 6 Install Destination Folder ...................................................................................... 26

Figure 7 Install Begin Screen .............................................................................................. 27

Figure 8 Install Process Screen .......................................................................................... 27

Figure 9 Installation Confirmation Screen ........................................................................... 28

Figure 10 PL-100 Configuration Utility Main ...................................................................... 29

Figure 11 Add Device .......................................................................................................... 31

Figure 12 Naming and Passwords ...................................................................................... 31

Figure 13 Privacy Screen .................................................................................................... 32

Figure 14 Diagnostics Screen ............................................................................................. 33

Figure 15 About Screen ...................................................................................................... 35

Figure 16 WIndows 95/98/Me: Network: Configuration ....................................................... 42

Figure 17 Windows 95/98/Me: TCP/IP Properties: IP Address ........................................... 43

Figure 18 Windows 95/98/Me: TCP/IP Properties: DNS Configuration .............................. 44

Figure 19 Windows XP: Start Menu .................................................................................... 45

Figure 20 Windows XP: Control Panel ................................................................................ 45

Figure 21 Windows XP: Control Panel: Network Connections: Properties ......................... 46

Figure 22 Windows XP: Local Area Connection Properties ................................................ 46

Figure 23 Windows XP: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties ........................................... 47

Figure 24 Windows XP: Advanced TCP/IP Properties ........................................................ 48

Figure 25 Windows XP: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties ........................................... 49

Figure 26 Macintosh OS 8/9: Apple Menu .......................................................................... 50

Figure 27 Macintosh OS 8/9: TCP/IP .................................................................................. 51

Figure 28 Macintosh OS X: Apple Menu ............................................................................. 51

Figure 29 Macintosh OS X: Network ................................................................................... 52

List of Figures 11

PL-100 User’s Guide

12 List of Figures

PL-100 User’s Guide

List of Tables

Table 1 LED Status of the PL-100 After Connection .......................................................... 24

Table 2 Utility Main Window Descriptions .......................................................................... 30

Table 3 Privacy Screen Choices ........................................................................................ 32

Table 4 Diagnostics Screen Items ............................................... 34

Table 5 About Screen Choices ................................................. 35

Table 6 Troubleshooting PWR LED .................................................................................... 37

Table 7 Troubleshooting LINK LED .................................................................................... 37

Table 8 Troubleshooting ETHN LED .................................................................................. 37

Table 9 Specifications ......................................................................................................... 39

Table 10 RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments ...................................................................... 39

List of Tables 13

PL-100 User’s Guide

14 List of Tables

PL-100 User’s Guide

Preface

Congratulations on your purchase of the PL-100 PowerLine 85 Mbps Ethernet Adapter.

Note: Register your product online to receive e-mail notices of firmware upgrades and

information at
North American products.

Your PL-100 Ethernet Adapter is easy to install and configure.

About This User's Guide

This manual is designed to guide you through the configuration of your PL-100 for its various
applications.

Related Documentation

• Supporting Disk

www.zyxel.com for global products, or at www.us.zyxel.com for

Refer to the included CD for support documents.

• Quick Start Guide

The Quick Start Guide is designed to help you get up and running right away. It contains
a detailed easy-to-follow connection diagram, default settings, handy checklists and
information on setting up your network and configuring for Internet access.

• ZyXEL Glossary and Web Site

Please refer to www.zyxel.com for an online glossary of networking terms and additional
support documentation.

User Guide Feedback

Help us help you. E-mail all User Guide-related comments, questions or suggestions for
improvement to [e-mail] or send regular mail to The Technical Writing
Team, ZyXEL Communications Corp., 6 Innovation Road II, Science-Based Industrial Park,
Hsinchu, 300, Taiwan. Thank you!

Syntax Conventions

• “Enter” means for you to type one or more characters. “Select” or “Choose” means for
you to use one predefined choices.

• Mouse action sequences are denoted using a comma. For example, “In Windows, click
Start, Settings and then Control Panel” means first click the Start button, then point
your mouse pointer to Settings and then click Control Panel.

• “e.g.,” is a shorthand for “for instance”, and “i.e.,” means “that is” or “in other words”.

Preface 15

PL-100 User’s Guide

16 Preface

PL-100 User’s Guide

CHAPTER 1

Getting to Know Your PL-100

This chapter introduces the main features and applications of the PL-100.

1.1 PL-100 PowerLine 85 Mbps Ethernet Adapter Overview

Thank you for purchasing the The PL-100 PowerLine 85 Mbps Ethernet Adapter transforms a
house's existing electrical wiring into a powerful networking infrastructure. The PL-100 plugs
into an ordinary outlet to easily extend a cable or DSL broadband connection or existing
Ethernet (LAN) network to any other electrical outlet in any room of a house, all without the
need for any new cabling.

The PL-100 supports up to an 85 Mbps data rate over common power lines while providing
56-bit DES Link Encryption for a safe and secure network. Easy to install, simply plug the PL­100 into an outlet and connect it to any broadband modem or router, and then plug each PC,
home entertainment device, gaming console or network-ready printer into a power socket with
another PL-100.

1.2 Key Features

Up to an 85 Mbps Data Rate Over Power Lines

Power line communication (PLC), also called Broadband over Power Lines (BPL) or Power
Line Telecoms (PLT), is a wireline technology that is able to use the current electricity
networks for data and voice transmission. The technology allows the transfer of voice and data
by superimposing an analog signal over the standard 50 or 60 Hz alternating current (AC).

56-bit DES Link Encryption

Data Encryption Standard (DES) is a widely used method of data encryption using a secret
key. DES applies a 56-bit key to each 64-bit block of data.

No New Wiring to Install

The PL-100 works in any home with copper wiring used as for electrical lines. Since some
older houses built before 1950 might have older wiring, then it may not work in these cases.
The PL-100 signal has no problem passing through circuit breakers, but can’t pass through
power transformers (which usually feed power to a house or groups of houses). The PL-100
works with AC input of 100 ~ 240 V.

Chapter 1 Getting to Know Your PL-100 17

PL-100 User’s Guide

LAN Port

The 10/100 Mbps auto-negotiating Ethernet LAN port allows the PL-100 to detect the speed
of incoming transmissions and adjust appropriately without manual intervention. It allows data
transfer of either 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps in either half-duplex or full-duplex mode depending
on your Ethernet network. The port is also auto-crossover (MDI/MDI-X) meaning it
automatically adjusts to either a crossover or straight-through Ethernet cable.

HomePlug V1.01 Compatible

A coalition of manufacturers, the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, established the HomePlug

1.0 Standard, which enables the establishment of an Ethernet-class network over powerline
channel.

1.3 System Requirements

• At least two available power outlets

• Standard home power wiring

• A computer with the following:

•CD-ROM drive

• IBM compatible running at 200 MHz or better

•64 MB of RAM

• Ethernet network adapter

• TCP/IP installed

1.4 Applications for the PL-100

Here are some examples of what you can do with your PL-100.

1.4.1 Broadband Internet Access via Cable or DSL Modem

You can connect the PL-100 to cable modem, DSL or wireless modem via an Ethernet switch
or wireless port on the modem, and extend this high speed connection to all other PL-100
devices in the house.

1.4.2 Connect a Computer, Printer or Game Device to a Network

Besides a computer, you can connect other devices to your PL-100 enabled home LAN
network. A printer, game device or a home entertainment system can be easily added to the
system by connecting each to a PL-100. Each device only needs a standard ethernet connector.

18 Chapter 1 Getting to Know Your PL-100

1.4.3 Share Files, Printers and Other Devices

The benefit of any home network is of course to easily connect to high speed Internet, but also
to share and exchange content. Easily share one printer with everyone in the house. Send or
receive videos or music anywhere in the house. It is a great way to connect and is safer than a
wireless connection.

PL-100 User’s Guide

Chapter 1 Getting to Know Your PL-100 19

PL-100 User’s Guide

20 Chapter 1 Getting to Know Your PL-100

Connecting the PL-100

This chapter describes how to connect the PL-100 to your broadband connection and
computers.

2.1 Preparing to Install the PL-100

The PL-100 PowerLine 85 Mbps Ethernet Adapter allows you to set up a high speed home
network using your house's existing electrical wiring. The PL-100 plugs into an ordinary
outlet to easily extend a cable or DSL broadband connection or existing Ethernet (LAN)
network to any other electrical outlet in any room of a house.

Basically, you need to plug one PL-100 Ethernet adapter into a wall outlet for each computer
(or other Ethernet device like printer or game console) you want to connect to your network.
You will also need one PL-100 to extend your cable or DSL modem connection, the PL-100
connects to your modem or router to extend your broadband connection to the other PL-100
units in your house.

PL-100 User’s Guide

CHAPTER 2

The steps below will show how to setup the hardware, install the required software and then
use the PL-100 home networking functions.

If needed, there is a Troubleshooting section included that will hopefully help you work
through any issues you might encounter.

To summarize what you need to install the system, let’s do a quick summary.

• One PL-100 Ethernet adapter connected to each computer.

• A standard broadband modem.

• A standard router connected to broadband modem (some units might have a combined
Cable or DSL modem or router).

Section Chapter 5 on page 37 for help.

Chapter 2 Connecting the PL-100 21

PL-100 User’s Guide

2.2 Connecting the PL-100

2.2.1 Connecting the PL-100 to Your Main Cable or DSL Modem

In order to get the whole house networked, you want to first make sure all the computers you
wish to be networked are connected properly to a PL-100 adapter. The figure below shows
how to connect the PL-100 into your existing broadband connection via Ethernet switch.

Follow the steps below to connect the PL-100 to your broadband modem.

1 Connect an Ethernet cable to the port on the PL-100.

2 Connect the other end of this Ethernet cable to an available Ethernet LAN port of your

router (broadband modem or router device).

3 Plug the PL-100 into a wall socket that is near your computer.

4 Confirm that the PWR, LINK and ETHN LEDs on the PL-100 are on.

Figure 1 Connecting the PL-100 to a Broadband Modem

PL-100

PL-100

PL-100

PL-100

PL-100

Ethernet Switch

WANPortLAN Ports

WANPortLAN Ports

WANPortLAN Ports

WANPortLAN Ports

WAN

LAN Ports

Router

Router

Router

Router

Port

Cable/DSL Modem

Cable/DSL Modem

Cable/DSL Modem

Cable/DSL Modem

Cable/DSL Modem

PL-100

11

12

3

1

22 Chapter 2 Connecting the PL-100

2.2.2 Connecting the PL-100 to a Computer

For all the computers you wish to be networked, they must each be connected properly to a
PL-100 Ethernet adapter. The figure below shows how to connect the PL-100 to each
computer.

Follow the steps below to connect the PL-100 to your computer.

1 Connect an Ethernet cable to the port on the PL-100.

2 Connect the other end of this Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port of your computer.

3 Plug the PL-100 into a wall socket that is near your computer.

4 Confirm that the PWR, LINK and ETHN LEDs on the PL-100 are on.

PL-100 User’s Guide

Figure 2 Connecting the PL-100 to a Computer

PL-100PL-100PL-100PL-100

PL-100

PL-100

11

3

1

12

Chapter 2 Connecting the PL-100 23

PL-100 User’s Guide

2.2.3 LED Status

The LEDs of the PL-100 show the current connection status.

Figure 3 PL-100 Top View With LED Lights

Table 1 LED Status of the PL-100 After Connection

LABEL STATUS DESCRIPTION

LABEL

PWR ON The PL-100 is on and receiving power.

LINK ON The Powerline port detects another powerline device.

ETHN ON The Ethernet port is on and ready.

STATUS

OFF The PL-100 is not receiving power.

Flashing The Powerline port is transmitting.
OFF The Powerline port is not detecting another powerline device.

Flashing The Ethernet port is transmitting.
OFF Devices on the Ethernet port are not connected or not on.

Please refer to the troubleshooting guide for additional help if needed. Section Chapter 5 on

page 37 for help.

24 Chapter 2 Connecting the PL-100

Installing the PL-100 Software

3.1 Installation of the Utility

Please verify that no other HomePlug or Encryption Management Utilities are installed before
installing this product. If other utilities are installed, uninstall them and restart before installing
this software.

To install the PL-100 Configuration Utility, please follow the steps below.

1 Insert the ZyXEL Windows OS Configuration Utility Setup utility CD-ROM into the

computer’s CD-ROM drive. The Setup utility runs automatically. Alternatively this can
also be done manually by double clicking the setup.exe file on the CD. The CD will
launch an installation utility similar to the one shown in Figure 4. Click Next to continue.

PL-100 User’s Guide

CHAPTER 3

Figure 4 InstallShield Wizard Start Screen

Chapter 3 Installing the PL-100 Software 25

PL-100 User’s Guide

2 Enter your User Name and Organization (optional). For exclusive control by an

individual, click the “Only for me” radio button. Click Next to continue.

Figure 5 Customer Information Input

3 Click Next to install to the default folder, or click Change to install to a different folder.

Figure 6 Install Destination Folder

26 Chapter 3 Installing the PL-100 Software

PL-100 User’s Guide

4 The installation wizard is ready to begin the installation. Click Next to proceed or Cancel

to exit the wizard.

Figure 7 Install Begin Screen

5 The PL-100 Configuration Utility is being installed. Please wait for installation to

complete.

Figure 8 Install Process Screen

Chapter 3 Installing the PL-100 Software 27

PL-100 User’s Guide

6 This is the screen to confirm the Installation Wizard has successfully installed the PL-100

Configuration Utility to your computer. Click Finish to exit the wizard.

Figure 9 Installation Confirmation Screen

28 Chapter 3 Installing the PL-100 Software

CHAPTER 4

Using the Configuration Utility

After the hardware and software are installed successfully, you can set up and adjust your network. In
order to run the configuration utility, double-click the utility icon. To do this,

and

Zyxel Software and click on PL-100 Configuration Utility. Figure 10 on page 29 below shows

the main screen of the configuration utility.

4.1 Configuration Utility Main Screen

The Main screen essentially provides a list of all powerline devices logically connected to the
computer where the utility is running.

Figure 10 PL-100 Configuration Utility Main

PL-100 User’s Guide

click Start, Programs

Chapter 4 Using the Configuration Utility 29

PL-100 User’s Guide

Table 2 Utility Main Window Descriptions

LABEL

LABEL DESCRIPTION

Top Panel This shows all local HomePlug devices found connected to the computer’s NIC

Lower Panel This displays all the HomePlug devices discovered on the current logical network

Device Name This shows the default device name, which may be re-defined. You may change the

Rename This allows you to rename a device.

Password This shows current password for device.

Quality This shows the quality of the High speed or Low speed device connection.

Rate This shows the current transmission rate of selected device.

MAC Address This shows the device’s MAC address.

Enter
Password

Add Button This is used to add a remote device to your network that is not on the displayed list in

Scan Button This is used to perform an immediate search of the HomePlug devices connected to

(Network Interface Card). In most cases, only one device will be seen. In situations
where there are more than one device connected, such as a USB and also an Ethernet
device, you may click to select the one to manage through and then click the Connect
button to its right. The status area above the button indicates that your PC is connected
to that same device. Once connected to the chosen local device, the utility will
automatically scan the power line periodically for any other HomePlug devices. If no
local HomePlug devices are discovered, the status area above the connect button will
indicate that accordingly.

(remote devices). Displayed immediately above this panel is the number of remote
devices found, the type of logical network (Public or Private), and a message area
that reports connectivity and scan status. The following information is displayed for
each of the devices discovered that appear in the lower panel.

name by clicking on the name and editing in-place, or by using the rename button. An
icon is optionally shown with the name. A distinction in icons is made between low­speed and high-speed devices (HomePlug 1.0 and Turbo). By default, the icon is
displayed with the name.

This column shows the supplied device password (initially left blank). You may enter
the password by using the Set Password button (explained below). To set the
Password of the device (required when creating a private network), first select the
device by clicking on its name in the lower panel and then click on the Enter Password
button. A dialog box will appear as shown below to type the password. The selected
device name is shown above the field for entering the password. Click OK after
entering the new password.

A confirmation box will appear if the password was entered correctly. If a device is not
found, you will be notified and suggestions to resolve common problems will be
presented.

the lower panel. For example, a device currently on another logical network See

11 on page 31,can be added this way. You are advised to locate the passwords for all

devices you wish to manage and add them to the local logical network by clicking on
the Add button. A dialog box will appear as seen below. The dialog box allows you to
enter both a device name and the password.

the computer. By default the utility automatically scans every few seconds and updates
the display.

Figure

30 Chapter 4 Using the Configuration Utility

PL-100 User’s Guide

Figure 11 Add Device

A confirmation box will appear if the password was entered correctly and if the device was
found. If a device is not found, you will be notified and suggestions to resolve common
problems will be presented.

Note: The device must be present on the power line (plugged in) in order for the

password to be confirmed and added to the network. If the device could not be
located, a warning message will be shown.

A typical screen after naming and supplying passwords might appear as below, which is also
the diagnostics screen.

Figure 12 Naming and Passwords

Chapter 4 Using the Configuration Utility 31

PL-100 User’s Guide

4.2 Privacy Screen

The Privacy dialog screen provides a means for managing the local network and providing
additional security. All HomePlug devices are shipped using a default logical network
(network name), which is normally “HomePlug”. The Privacy dialog screen allows you to
make the network private by changing the network name (network password) of devices.

You can always reset a HomePlug network to the universal one (public) by entering
“HomePlug” as the network name or by clicking on the Use Default button.

Note: Changing the network name to any other name other than HomePlug will show

the network type on the main screen as Private.

Figure 13 Privacy Screen

Table 3 Privacy Screen Choices

LABEL DESCRIPTION

LABEL

Set Local
Device Only

Set All
Devices

32 Chapter 4 Using the Configuration Utility

This is used to change the network name (network password) for the local device only.
After doing this, all the devices seen on the Main panel prior to this will no longer be
able to communicate or respond to the computer, as they will be on a different logical
network. Devices previously set up with the same logical network (same network
name) will appear in the device list afterward selecting this option.

This is used to change the logical network of all devices that appear on the Main panel.
You must have entered the device’s Password in order to set it to the new logical
network. A notification message will appear to report the success of this operation.

4.3 Diagnostics Screen

The Diagnostics screen shows system information and a history of all devices seen. The
appearance is shown in the figure below.

Figure 14 Diagnostics Screen

PL-100 User’s Guide

Chapter 4 Using the Configuration Utility 33

PL-100 User’s Guide

Table 4 Diagnostics Screen Items

LABEL DESCRIPTION

LABEL

Upper Panel This area shows technical data concerning software and hardware on the host

Lower Panel This area contains a history of all remote devices seen on the computer over time.

Delete, Email
Report, Save
Report, Print
Report

computer used to communicate over HomePlug. It includes the following:

• Operating System Type or Version

• Host Network Name

• User Name

• MAC Address of all NICs (network interface card)

• Identify Versions of all Driver DLLs and Libraries used (NDIS)

• HomePlug chipset manufacturer name (Turbo Only devices)

• MAC Firmware Version (Turbo Only devices)

• Vendor Name

Devices are shown here regardless of whether or not they are on the same logical
network. Devices that are active on the current logical network will show a transfer rate
in the Rate column; devices on other networks, or devices that may no longer exist are
shown with a “?” in the Rate column. The following remote device information is
available from the diagnostics screen:

• Adapter Alias Name

• Adapter MAC Address

• Adapter Password

• Adapter Last known rate

• Adapter Last Known Network

• HomePlug chipset manufacturer name

• Date device last scanned.

• MAC Firmware Version (Turbo Only).

The diagnostics information displayed may be saved to a text file for later emailing to
technical support of a manufacturer, or printed for reference during a technical support
call. Devices no longer part of the network can be deleted using the Delete button.

34 Chapter 4 Using the Configuration Utility

4.4 About Screen

The About screen in the figure below shows the software version and provides access to the
ZyXEL website.

Figure 15 About Screen

PL-100 User’s Guide

Table 5 About Screen Choices

LABEL

LABEL DESCRIPTION

http://www.zyxel.com.tw Clicking on this web address field will open a web browser and take you

AutoScan This is used as the default Autoscan setting to find all HomePlug devices

directly to the ZyXEL web site.

connected to the computer. When checked, the utility automatically scans
every few seconds and updates the information to display. When left blank,
the Configuration Utility only scans for devices when the Scan button on the
Main utility screen is clicked.

Chapter 4 Using the Configuration Utility 35

PL-100 User’s Guide

36 Chapter 4 Using the Configuration Utility

CHAPTER 5

Troubleshooting

This chapter covers potential problems and possible remedies. After each problem description,
instructions are provided to help you diagnose and fix the problem.

5.1 Using LEDs to Diagnose a Problem

5.1.1 PWR LED is Off

Table 6 Troubleshooting PWR LED

STEPS CORRECTIVE ACTION

STEPS

PL-100 User’s Guide

1 Make sure the PL-100 is properly connected to a power outlet. Make sure the outlet

is working by plugging another electric device into it. If it is working, plug in the PL­100 again. If the PL-100 LED still does not light, contact our technical support.

5.1.2 LINK LED is Off

Table 7 Troubleshooting LINK LED

STEPS

STEPS CORRECTIVE ACTION

1 Use the PL-100 Configuration Utility to detect all other Homeplug devices on your

power line network.

2 Try plugging a second Homeplug device into an adjacent socket (to your PL-100)

and see if the lights light up. If you are still having a problem, please contact our
technical support line.

5.1.3 ETHN LED is Off

Table 8 Troubleshooting ETHN LED

STEPS CORRECTIVE ACTION

STEPS

1 Check that all Ethernet cables are securely connected at all ports and are the

correct type (Cat-5 or higher).

2 Check the Ethernet adapter on your computer and make sure it’s enabled and

working properly. If the PL-100 is connected to an Ethernent switch or router, make
sure the device is working correctly, and that the LAN network is working and
configured correctly as well.

Chapter 5 Troubleshooting 37

PL-100 User’s Guide

38 Chapter 5 Troubleshooting

APPENDIX A

PL-100 Specifications

Table 9 Specifications

ITEM

ITEM DESCRIPTION

Product Name PL-100 PowerLine 85 Mbps Ethernet Adapter

Power Input 100 - 240 VAC, 50 ~ 60 Hz, 0.05 A

Dimensions 112 (L) mm x 106 (D) mm x 28.5 mm (H)

Operating Temp 0°C ~ 45°C

Humidity 10% ~ 90% Noncondensing

Frequency
Band

Cabling Type 1 x Powerline Power Cord

Network Ports 1 x 10/100M BASE-T Ethernet port with Auto MDI/MDIX

Power Line
Network

Network
Interface

Encryption 56-bit DES Link Encryption with Key Management

Certifications FCC, CE

4.3 MHz, 20.9 MHz

1 x LAN UTP Category 5 or Better

1 x 85 Mbps PowerLine port compliant with 14M HomePlug V1.01

Supports up to 16 (Tone Map) PL devices communicating on a single network. 1 PL
device supports 16 remote Ethernet addresses, Total support 64.

1 x RJ-45 (10/100BASE-T Ethernet)
1 x 2 PIN AC-JACK + Power Cable

PL-100 User’s Guide

Table 10 RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments

RJ-45 CONNECTOR PIN NO RJ-45 SIGNAL ASSIGNMENT

Appendix A PL-100 Specifications 39

1 RxD +
2 RxD ­3 TxD +
4 Not connected
5 Not connected
6 TxD ­7 Not connected
8 Not connected

PL-100 User’s Guide

40 Appendix A PL-100 Specifications

PL-100 User’s Guide

APPENDIX B

Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address

All computers must have a 10M or 100M Ethernet adapter card and TCP/IP installed.

Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000/XP, Macintosh OS 7 and later operating systems and all versions
of UNIX/LINUX include the software components you need to install and use TCP/IP on your
computer. Windows 3.1 requires the purchase of a third-party TCP/IP application package.

TCP/IP should already be installed on computers using Windows NT/2000/XP, Macintosh OS
7 and later operating systems.

After the appropriate TCP/IP components are installed, configure the TCP/IP settings in order
to "communicate" with your network.

If you manually assign IP information instead of using dynamic assignment, make sure that
your computers have IP addresses that place them in the same subnet as the Prestige’s LAN
port.

Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address 41

PL-100 User’s Guide

Windows 95/98/Me

Click Start, Settings, Control Panel and double-click the Network icon to open the Network
window.

Figure 16 WIndows 95/98/Me: Network: Configuration

Installing Components

The Network window Configuration tab displays a list of installed components. You need a
network adapter, the TCP/IP protocol and Client for Microsoft Networks.

If you need the adapter:

1 In the Network window, click Add.

2 Select Adapter and then click Add.

3 Select the manufacturer and model of your network adapter and then click OK.

If you need TCP/IP:

1 In the Network window, click Add.

2 Select Protocol and then click Add.

3 Select Microsoft from the list of manufacturers.

4 Select TCP/IP from the list of network protocols and then click OK.

42 Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address

If you need Client for Microsoft Networks:

1 Click Add.

2 Select Client and then click Add.

3 Select Microsoft from the list of manufacturers.

4 Select Client for Microsoft Networks from the list of network clients and then click

5 Restart your computer so the changes you made take effect.

Configuring

1 In the Network window Configuration tab, select your network adapter's TCP/IP entry

2 Click the IP Address tab.

PL-100 User’s Guide

OK.

and click Properties

• If your IP address is dynamic, select Obtain an IP address
automatically.

• If you have a static IP address, select Specify an IP address and type
your information into the IP Address and Subnet Mask fields.

Figure 17 Windows 95/98/Me: TCP/IP Properties: IP Address

3 Click the DNS Configuration tab.

• If you do not know your DNS information, select Disable DNS.

• If you know your DNS information, select Enable DNS and type the
information in the fields below (you may not need to fill them all in).

Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address 43

PL-100 User’s Guide

Figure 18 Windows 95/98/Me: TCP/IP Properties: DNS Configuration

4 Click the Gateway tab.

5 Click OK to save and close the TCP/IP Properties window.

6 Click OK to close the Network window. Insert the Windows CD if prompted.

7 Turn on your Prestige and restart your computer when prompted.

Verifying Settings

1 Click Start and then Run.

2 In the Run window, type "winipcfg" and then click OK to open the IP Configuration

window.

3 Select your network adapter. You should see your computer's IP address, subnet mask and

default gateway.

• If you do not know your gateway’s IP address, remove previously
installed gateways.

• If you have a gateway IP address, type it in the New gateway field
and click Add.

44 Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address

Windows 2000/NT/XP

The following example figures use the default Windows XP GUI theme.

1 Click start (Start in Windows 2000/NT), Settings, Control Panel.

Figure 19 Windows XP: Start Menu

PL-100 User’s Guide

2 In the Control Panel, double-click Network Connections (Network and Dial-up

Connections in Windows 2000/NT).

Figure 20 Windows XP: Control Panel

3 Right-click Local Area Connection and then click Properties.

Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address 45

PL-100 User’s Guide

Figure 21 Windows XP: Control Panel: Network Connections: Properties

4 Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) (under the General tab in Win XP) and then click

Properties.

Figure 22 Windows XP: Local Area Connection Properties

5 The Internet Protocol TCP/IP Properties window opens (the General tab in Windows

XP).

• If you have a dynamic IP address click Obtain an IP address
automatically.

46 Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address

• If you have a static IP address click Use the following IP Address
and fill in the IP address, Subnet mask, and Default gateway fields.

• Click Advanced.

Figure 23 Windows XP: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties

PL-100 User’s Guide

6 If you do not know your gateway's IP address, remove any previously installed gateways

in the IP Settings tab and click OK.

Do one or more of the following if you want to configure additional IP addresses:

•In the IP Settings tab, in IP addresses, click Add.

•In TCP/IP Address, type an IP address in IP address and a subnet
mask in Subnet mask, and then click Add.

• Repeat the above two steps for each IP address you want to add.

• Configure additional default gateways in the IP Settings tab by
clicking Add in Default gateways.

•In TCP/IP Gateway Address, type the IP address of the default
gateway in Gateway. To manually configure a default metric (the
number of transmission hops), clear the Automatic metric check box
and type a metric in Metric.

• Click Add.

• Repeat the previous three steps for each default gateway you want to
add.

• Click OK when finished.

Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address 47

PL-100 User’s Guide

Figure 24 Windows XP: Advanced TCP/IP Properties

7 In the Internet Protocol TCP/IP Properties window (the General tab in Windows XP):

• Click Obtain DNS server address automatically if you do not know
your DNS server IP address(es).

• If you know your DNS server IP address(es), click Use the following
DNS server addresses, and type them in the Preferred DNS server
and Alternate DNS server fields.

If you have previously configured DNS servers, click Advanced and
then the DNS tab to order them.

48 Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address

Figure 25 Windows XP: Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties

PL-100 User’s Guide

8 Click OK to close the Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Properties window.

9 Click Close (OK in Windows 2000/NT) to close the Local Area Connection Properties

window.

10 Close the Network Connections window (Network and Dial-up Connections in

Windows 2000/NT).

11Turn on your Prestige and restart your computer (if prompted).

Verifying Settings

1 Click Start, All Programs, Accessories and then Command Prompt.

2 In the Command Prompt window, type "ipconfig" and then press [ENTER]. You can

also open Network Connections, right-click a network connection, click Status and then
click the Support tab.

Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address 49

PL-100 User’s Guide

Macintosh OS 8/9

1 Click the Apple menu, Control Panel and double-click TCP/IP to open the TCP/IP

Control Panel.

Figure 26 Macintosh OS 8/9: Apple Menu

2 Select Ethernet built-in from the Connect via list.

50 Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address

PL-100 User’s Guide

Figure 27 Macintosh OS 8/9: TCP/IP

3 For dynamically assigned settings, select Using DHCP Server from the Configure: list.

4 For statically assigned settings, do the following:

•From the Configure box, select Manually.

• Type your IP address in the IP Address box.

• Type your subnet mask in the Subnet mask box.

• Type the IP address of your Prestige in the Router address box.

5 Close the TCP/IP Control Panel.

6 Click Save if prompted, to save changes to your configuration.

7 Turn on your Prestige and restart your computer (if prompted).

Verifying Settings

Check your TCP/IP properties in the TCP/IP Control Panel window.

Macintosh OS X

1 Click the Apple menu, and click System Preferences to open the System Preferences

window.

Figure 28 Macintosh OS X: Apple Menu

2 Click Network in the icon bar.

• Select Automatic from the Location list.

Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address 51

PL-100 User’s Guide

3 For dynamically assigned settings, select Using DHCP from the Configure list.

Figure 29 Macintosh OS X: Network

• Select Built-in Ethernet from the Show list.

• Click the TCP/IP tab.

4 For statically assigned settings, do the following:

•From the Configure box, select Manually.

• Type your IP address in the IP Address box.

• Type your subnet mask in the Subnet mask box.

• Type the IP address of your Prestige in the Router address box.

5 Click Apply Now and close the window.

6 Turn on your Prestige and restart your computer (if prompted).

Verifying Settings

Check your TCP/IP properties in the Network window.

52 Appendix B Setting up Your Computer’s IP Address

PL-100 User’s Guide

Index

Numerics

10/100 Mbps 18
110 V AC 4
230V AC 4
56-bit DES 17
85 Mbps 17

A

Abnormal Working Conditions 5
About Screen 35
AC 4
Accessories 4
Acts of God 5
Adapter Last Known Network 34
Adapter Last known rate 34
Add 30
Add Device 31
Airflow 4
Alias 34
Authority 3
auto-negotiating 18

B

Basement 4
BPL 17
Broadband over Power Lines 17

C

Circuit 3
Class B 3
Communications 3
Compliance, FCC 3
Components 5
Condition 5
Configuration Utility 29
Connecting Cables 4
Connecting the PL-100 21
Consequential Damages 5
Contact Information 6
Contacting Customer Support 6
Copyright 2
Correcting Interference 3
Corrosive Liquids 4
Covers 4
Customer Information 26
Customer Support 6

D

Dampness 4
Danger 4
Dealer 3
Default Logical Network 32
Defective 5
Delete 34
Denmark, Contact Information 6
Destination 26
Device Name 30
Dimensions 39
Disclaimer 2
Discretion 5
DSL Modem 18
Dust 4

Cables, Connecting 4
Cabling Type 39
CE 39
Certifications 3, 39
Changes or Modifications 3
Charge 5

E

Electric Shock 4
Electrical Pipes 4
Email Report 34

Index 53

PL-100 User’s Guide

Encryption 39
Enter Password 30
Equal Value 5
Europe 4
Exposure 4

F

Failure 5
FCC 3, 39

Compliance 3

Rules, Part 15 3
FCC Rules 3
Federal Communications Commission 3
Finland, Contact Information 6
Fitness 5
France, Contact Information 6
Frequency Band 39
Full-duplex 18
Functionally Equivalent 5

Installing the PL-100 21
InstallShield Wizard 25
Insurance 5
Interference 3
Interference Correction Measures 3
Interference Statement 3

L

Labor 5
LED Status 24
LED status 24
Legal Rights 5
Liability 2
License 2
Lightning 4
Liquids, Corrosive 4

M

G

Game Console 21
Gas Pipes 4
Germany, Contact Information 6
God, act of 5

H

Half-duplex 18
Harmful Interference 3
High Voltage Points 4
HomePlug 1.0 18
HomePlug chipset manufacturer name 34
HomePlug Powerline Alliance 18
Host Network Name 34
Humidity 39

I

MAC Address 30
MAC Firmware Version 34
Materials 5
MDI/MDI-X 18
Merchantability 5
Modifications 3

N

Naming and Passwords 31
Network Interface 39
Network Password 32
Network Ports 39
New 5
NIC 30
North America 4
North America Contact Information 6
Norway, Contact Information 6

O

Indirect Damages 5
Installation Confirmation 28

Only for Me 26

54 Index

PL-100 User’s Guide

Opening 4
Operating Condition 5
Operating System Type/Version 34
Operating Temp 39
Organization 26
Out-dated Warranty 5
Outlet 3

P

Parts 5
Password 30
Patent 2
Permission 2
Photocopying 2
Pipes 4
PL-100 Configuration Utility 29
PL-100 Specifications 39
PLC 17
PLT 17
Pool 4
Postage Prepaid. 5
Power Cord 4
Power Input 39
Power Line Network 39
Preferences 35
Print Report 34
Privacy Screen 32
Private 30
Product Model 6
Product Page 3
Product Serial Number 6
Products 5
Proof of Purchase 5
Proper Operating Condition 5
Public 30
Purchase, Proof of 5
Purchaser 5

Q

Qualified Service Personnel 4
Quality 30

R

Radio Communications 3
Radio Frequency Energy 3
Radio Interference 3
Radio Reception 3
Radio Technician 3
Rate 30
Read Me First 15
Receiving Antenna 3
Registered 2
Registered Trademark 2
Regular Mail 6
Related Documentation 15
Relocate 3
Re-manufactured 5
Removing 4
Rename 30
Reorient 3
Repair 5
Replace 5
Replacement 5
Reproduction 2
Restore 5
Return Material Authorization (RMA) Number 5
Returned Products 5
Returns 5
Rights 2
Rights, Legal 5
Risk 4
Risks 4
RMA 5

S

Safety Warnings 4
Save Report, 34
Scan 30
Separation Between Equipment and Receiver 3
Serial Number 6
Service 4, 5
Service Personnel 4
Set All Devices 32, 35
Set Local Device 32, 35
Set Password 30
Shipping 5
Shock, Electric 4

Index 55

PL-100 User’s Guide

Spain, Contact Information 6
Supply Voltage 4
Support E-mail 6
Supporting Disk 15
Sweden, Contact Information 6
Swimming Pool 4
Syntax Conventions 15

T

Tampering 5
Telephone 6
Television Interference 3
Television Reception 3
Thunderstorm 4
Top View 24
Trademark 2
Trademark Owners 2
Trademarks 2
Translation 2
Troubleshooting 37
Troubleshooting ETHN 37
Troubleshooting LINK 37
Troubleshooting PWR 37
Turbo 30
TV Technician 3

W

Wall Mount 4
Warnings 4
Warranty 5
Warranty Information 6
Warranty Period 5
Water 4
Water Pipes 4
Web Configurator 21
Web Site 6
Wet Basement 4
Workmanship 5
Worldwide Contact Information 6
Written Permission 2

Z

ZyNOS 2
ZyXEL Communications Corporation 2
ZyXEL Home Page 3
ZyXEL Limited Warranty

Note 5
ZyXEL Network Operating System 2
Zyxel Software 29

U

Undesired Operations 3
User Name 26, 34
Utility Main Window 30

V

Val ue 5
Vendor 4, 34
Ventilation Slots 4
Viewing Certifications 3
Voltage Supply 4
Voltage, High 4

56 Index