ZyXEL Communications 470, 402, 401 User Manual

PLA-4xx Series

Powerline Ethernet Adapter Series (PLA-400/401/402/470)

User’s Guide

Version 1.30
06/2007
Edition 1

www.zyxel.com

About This User's Guide

About This User's Guide

Intended Audience

This manual is intended for people who want to configure the PLA-400, PLA-401, PLA-402
and PLA-470 using the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility. You should have your basic
Internet access or home network already set up.

Related Documentation

• Quick Start Guide
The Quick Start Guide is designed to help you get up and running right away. It contains

information on making your hardware connections.

• Supporting Disk
Refer to the included CD for support documents.

• ZyXEL Web Site
Please refer to www.zyxel.com

certifications.

for additional support documentation and product

User Guide Feedback

Help us help you. Send all User Guide-related comments, questions or suggestions for
improvement to the following address, or use e-mail instead. Thank you!

The Technical Writing Team,
ZyXEL Communications Corp.,
6 Innovation Road II,
Science-Based Industrial Park,
Hsinchu, 300, Taiwan.

E-mail: [e-mail]

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

3

Document Conventions

Document Conventions

Warnings and Notes

These are how warnings and notes are shown in this User’s Guide.

1 Warnings tell you about things that could harm you or your device.

" Notes tell you other important information (for example, other things you may

need to configure or helpful tips) or recommendations.

Syntax Conventions

• The PLA-400, PLA-401, PLA-402 and PLA-470 may be referred to as the “PLA-4xx”,
the “ZyXEL device”, the “device” or the “powerline adapter” in this User’s Guide.

• Product labels, screen names, field labels and field choices are all in bold font.

• A key stroke is denoted by square brackets and uppercase text, for example, [ENTER]
means the “enter” or “return” key on your keyboard.

• “Enter” means for you to type one or more characters and then press the [ENTER] key.
“Select” or “choose” means for you to use one of the predefined choices.

• A right angle bracket ( > ) within a screen name denotes a mouse click. For example,
Maintenance > Log > Log Setting means you first click Maintenance in the navigation
panel, then the Log sub menu and finally the Log Setting tab to get to that screen.

• Units of measurement may denote the “metric” value or the “scientific” value. For
example, “k” for kilo may denote “1000” or “1024”, “M” for mega may denote “1000000”
or “1048576” and so on.

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

Icons Used in Figures

Figures in this User’s Guide may use the following generic icons. The PLA-4xx icons used
may not be an exact representation of your device.

PLA-4xx Computer Notebook computer

4

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Safety Warnings

Safety Warnings

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

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

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

• Do NOT store things on the device.

• Do NOT install, use, or service this device during a thunderstorm. There is a remote risk
of electric shock from lightning.

• Connect ONLY suitable accessories to the device.

• 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 should
service or disassemble this device. Please contact your vendor for further information.For
devices that use any external cables or cords [e.g., not for wireless cards]

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

• Place connecting cables carefully so that no one will step on them or stumble over them.

• Always disconnect all cables from this device before servicing or disassembling.

• Use ONLY an appropriate power adapter or cord for your device.

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

• Do NOT allow anything to rest on the power adapter or cord and do NOT place the
product where anyone can walk on the power adapter or cord.

• Do NOT use the device if the power adapter or cord is damaged as it might cause
electrocution.

• If the power adapter or cord is damaged, remove it from the power outlet.

• Do NOT attempt to repair the power adapter or cord. Contact your local vendor to order a
new one.

• Do not use the device outside, and make sure all the connections are indoors. There is a
remote risk of electric shock from lightning.

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

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

PLA-402 models only:

• Make sure that the cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against
voltage surges. (PowerLine Ethernet adapters (HomePlug device), Cable modems or
routers)

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

5

Safety Warnings

This product is recyclable. Dispose of it properly.

6

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

About This User's Guide ..........................................................................................................3

Document Conventions............................................................................................................4

Safety Warnings........................................................................................................................5

Table of Contents...................................................................................................................... 7

List of Figures ........................................................................................................................... 9

List of Tables...........................................................................................................................11

Part I: The PLA-4xx ................................................................................ 13

Chapter 1

Introducing the PLA-4xx ........................................................................................................15

1.1 Overview .............................................................................................................................. 15

1.2 Expand Your Network with the PLA-4xx .............................................................................. 15

1.2.1 Coaxial Cable Networks with the PLA-402 ................................................................ 16

1.3 Ways to Manage the PLA-4xx ............................................................................................. 16

1.4 Security ................................................................................................................................ 16

1.4.1 Passwords .................................................................................................................. 17

1.4.2 Setting Up Security .................................................................................................... 17

1.5 Multiple Networks ................................................................................................................ 18

Chapter 2

Installing the Configuration Utility ........................................................................................19

2.1 Overview of the Installation Process .................................................................................... 19

2.2 Installing the Utility ............................................................................................................... 19

Chapter 3

Managing Your PLA-4xx.........................................................................................................25

3.1 Overview .............................................................................................................................. 25

3.1.1 Powerline Network Security ....................................................................................... 26

3.1.2 Device Access Key (DAK) .......................................................................................... 26

3.2 Starting the Configuration Utility .......................................................................................... 26

3.3 Configuration Screen ........................................................................................................... 26

3.4 Firmware Screen ................................................................................................................. 28

3.5 Network Info Screen ............................................................................................................ 29

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

7

Table of Contents

3.6 About Screen ....................................................................................................................... 31

Chapter 4

Powerline Network Setup Tutorial.........................................................................................33

4.0.1 Overview .................................................................................................................... 33

4.0.2 Important Terms ......................................................................................................... 34

4.0.3 Accessing Your Powerline Adapter ............................................................................ 34

4.0.4 Adding a Powerline Adapter ....................................................................................... 35

4.0.5 Setting Up a New Network with a New Adapter ......................................................... 37

4.0.6 Splitting a Network into Two Networks ....................................................................... 38

4.1 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................... 41

Chapter 5

LEDs and Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................43

5.1 LEDs .................................................................................................................................... 43

5.1.1 PLA-401 ..................................................................................................................... 43

5.1.2 PLA-400 and PLA-402 ............................................................................................... 44

5.1.3 PLA-470 ..................................................................................................................... 44

5.2 Power and LED Problems ................................................................................................... 45

5.3 Configuration Utility Problems .............................................................................................46

5.4 Powerline Problems ............................................................................................................. 47

Part II: Appendices and Index............................................................... 49

Appendix A Product Specifications .................................................................................... 51

Appendix B Legal Information............................................................................................55

Appendix C Customer Support ..........................................................................................59

Index......................................................................................................................................... 65

8

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

List of Figures

List of Figures

Figure 1 Expand Your Network with the PLA-4xx ................................................................................... 15

Figure 2 Expand Your Network with the PLA-402 over Coaxial Cable Wiring ........................................ 16

Figure 3 .NET Framework Installation Prompt ....................................................................................... 20

Figure 4 Microsoft’s Agreement .............................................................................................................. 20

Figure 5 .NET Framework Installation Process ...................................................................................... 21

Figure 6 Microsoft’s Agreement .............................................................................................................. 21

Figure 7 InstallShield Wizard Start Screen ............................................................................................. 21

Figure 8 Customer Information Input ...................................................................................................... 22

Figure 9 Install Destination Folder .......................................................................................................... 22

Figure 10 Install Begin Screen ............................................................................................................... 23

Figure 11 Restart Screen ........................................................................................................................ 23

Figure 12 Example Network Setup ......................................................................................................... 25

Figure 13 PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility Icon ............................................................................... 26

Figure 14 Configuration Screen .............................................................................................................. 27

Figure 15 Firmware Screen .................................................................................................................... 29

Figure 16 Network Info Screen ............................................................................................................... 30

Figure 17 About Screen .......................................................................................................................... 31

Figure 18 Plug Your Powerline Adapter into a Power Socket ................................................................. 34

Figure 19 Connect Your Powerline Adapter to a Computer .................................................................... 34

Figure 20 Click on the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility Icon ........................................................... 35

Figure 21 Add a Printer to Your Powerline Network ............................................................................... 35

Figure 22 Adding a New Adapter ........................................................................................................... 36

Figure 23 Adding an Adapter to an Existing Network .............................................................................36

Figure 24 Network Password Pop-up ..................................................................................................... 36

Figure 25 Add New Adapters to Make a Second Network ..................................................................... 37

Figure 26 Making a New Network with the New Adapter ....................................................................... 38

Figure 27 Local/Remote Adapters on a Powerline Network ................................................................... 39

Figure 28 Adding an Adapter to Your New Network ............................................................................... 39

Figure 29 Incorrect DAK or No DAK ....................................................................................................... 40

Figure 30 Correct DAK ........................................................................................................................... 40

Figure 31 An Adapter on Your New Network .......................................................................................... 40

Figure 32 Adapters on a New Powerline Network ..................................................................................41

Figure 33 PLA-401 LEDs ........................................................................................................................ 43

Figure 34 PLA-400/402 LEDs ................................................................................................................. 44

Figure 35 PLA-470 LEDs ........................................................................................................................ 45

Figure 36 Wall-mounting Example .......................................................................................................... 53

Figure 37 RJ-45 Connector Pins ............................................................................................................ 54

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

9

List of Figures

10

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

List of Tables

List of Tables

Table 1 Password Summary ................................................................................................................... 17

Table 2 Configuration Screen ................................................................................................................. 27

Table 3 Firmware Screen ........................................................................................................................ 29

Table 4 Network Info Screen .................................................................................................................. 30

Table 5 About Screen ............................................................................................................................. 31

Table 6 PLA-401 LEDs ........................................................................................................................... 43

Table 7 PLA-400/402 LEDs .................................................................................................................... 44

Table 8 PLA-470 LEDs ........................................................................................................................... 45

Table 9 Hardware Specifications ............................................................................................................ 51

Table 10 Firmware Specifications ........................................................................................................... 52

Table 11 Performance ............................................................................................................................. 52

Table 12 Standards Supported ............................................................................................................... 52

Table 13 RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments .......................................................................................... 54

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

11

List of Tables

12

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

PART I

The PLA-4xx

Introducing the PLA-4xx (15)

Installing the Configuration Utility (19)

Managing Your PLA-4xx (25)

Powerline Network Setup Tutorial (33)

LEDs and Troubleshooting (43)

13

14

CHAPTER 1

Introducing the PLA-4xx

1.1 Overview

This chapter introduces the main applications and features of the PLA-400, PLA-401, PLA­402 and PLA-470 HomePlug AV compliant powerline adapters. See Appendix A on page 51
for detailed product specifications for each model.

In this User’s Guide PLA-400, PLA-401, PLA-402 and PLA-470 powerline adapters are
referred to as PLA-4xx powerline adapters. The electrical wiring network and coaxial cable
network are both referred to as the “powerline network”. The HomePlug AV standard
specifies how network devices communicate using standard electrical wiring.

1.2 Expand Your Network with the PLA-4xx

The PLA-4xx plugs into an ordinary power 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. Devices can securely communicate with each
other at high data transfer rates. (See Appendix A on page 51 for speeds currently supported
by the PLA-4xx.) The PLA-4xx uses 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to ensure
safe transfer of information.

Figure 1 Expand Your Network with the PLA-4xx

Connect your PLA-4xx to an Internet gateway such as a modem and plug it into an ordinary
power outlet in your home. Plug a second PLA-4xx into another power outlet and connect a
computer to the PLA-4xx for Internet access. Your network can be further expanded by
plugging additional PLA-4xxs into other outlets in your home and connecting other computers
or network devices (for example, a printer) to them.

Refer to your Quick Start Guide for hardware connection information. Refer to Appendix A on

page 51 for wall mounting instructions.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

15

Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA-4xx

1.2.1 Coaxial Cable Networks with the PLA-402

The PLA-402 allows you to be more flexible in expanding your network by adding the coaxial
cable capability.

Figure 2 Expand Your Network with the PLA-402 over Coaxial Cable Wiring

As well as being able to connect your PLA-402 to a power outlet, you also have the option of
connecting to a coaxial cable outlet. Connect other powerline adapters in your powerline
network to coaxial cable outlets on the same line. Then set up your network with additional
devices such as a computer or printer the same way you would set up a powerline network on
an electrical circuit.

1.3 Ways to Manage the PLA-4xx

Use any of the following methods to manage the PLA-4xx.

•The PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility. This is recommended for everyday
management of the PLA-4xx. See Section 2.2 on page 19 for instructions on installing the
utility.

1.4 Security

Since your powerline network may extend outside your premises, it is important to set up
security on your PLA-4xx.

16

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

1.4.1 Passwords

You use two types of passwords in the HomePlug AV powerline network. The following table
describes the differences between the passwords.

Table 1 Password Summary

PASSWORD DESCRIPTION

Private Network
Password

DAK (Data Access
Key) Password

1.4.2 Setting Up Security

Use the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to set up security on the PLA-4xx or other
HomePlug AV compliant powerline adapters. Although the PLA-4xx is a “plug-and-play”
network expanding solution there are several reasons for enabling security on the powerline
network in your home.

Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA-4xx

All powerline adapters that follow the HomePlug AV standard are
shipped with the same powerline network password “HomePlugAV”.
Change this password via the PLA-4xx Series Configuration
Utility to create a private network. See Section 3.3 on page 26.

In order to manage the powerline adapters on your powerline
network you must enter the adapters’ DAK password in the PLA-4xx
Series Configuration Utility. This password is printed on the
powerline adapter itself.

You don’t need to add the password for the powerline adapter
directly connected to the computer running the configuration utility
(local powerline adapter), you only have to add the remote powerline
adapters’ passwords (those on your circuit, but not directly
connected to your computer).

1 It’s easy and only requires you to change a password.
2 It’s a good idea to ensure privacy of your communication. When you use the PLA-4xx

and other powerline adapters, the electrical wiring in your home becomes an extension
of your Ethernet network. Your network traffic flows freely within the electrical circuit
of your home and is bounded in most cases by a power meter.

Without security (encryption) your information is accessible to anyone using a
powerline adapter on the same electrical circuit. In some cases, a circuit can be shared by
more than one household.

To prevent compromising your network security, you can create a private network. A
private network uses a secret password to make sure that only permitted powerline
adapters can communicate in your network. See Section 3.1.1 on page 26 for
information on setting up a private network.

" Buildings and even streets may share a coaxial cable connection. If your

powerline network uses a coaxial cable, the network will probably extend
outside your premises. In this case make your network more secure with a
private network password.

3 You may need to change the password to create multiple powerline networks. See the

next section for more information on how to set up a multiple network.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

17

Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA-4xx

1.5 Multiple Networks

Multiple powerline networks can coexist on a single powerline circuit. You might want to
implement multiple powerline networks in a small office environment where you have two
separate Ethernet networks.

1 Connect one powerline adapter to a router or switch on the first Ethernet network and

assign a password (for example “Password1”) to this powerline adapter. Add additional
powerline adapters to your network by plugging them into your powerline outlets and
assigning them “Password1”. This completes the configuration of your first powerline
network.

2 Connect another powerline adapter to a router or switch on the second Ethernet network

and assign a different password (for example “Password2”) to this powerline adapter.
Again, add additional powerline adapters and assign them “Password2”.

You now have two private networks on your powerline circuit. Information is not shared
between the two networks as only powerline adapters with the same password can
communicate with each other.

18

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

CHAPTER 2

Installing the Configuration

Utility

This chapter guides you through the installation of the configuration utility for your PLA-4xx.

2.1 Overview of the Installation Process

The installation of the configuration utility does the following:

1 Checks for and installs Microsoft’s .NET Framework version 1.1 software on your

computer. This software is necessary for the installation of the PLA-4xx Series
Configuration Utility. If you already have .NET Framework version 1.1 installed on
your computer this step will be skipped.

2 Installs ZyXEL’s PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility. This utility allows you to

manage the network password (See Section 3.1.1 on page 26 for more information) or
upload firmware on your powerline adapters. You can also use this utility to view the
devices recognized on your powerline network.

" At the time of writing the utility is only compatible on Microsoft Windows XP

and Microsoft Windows Vista (32-bit version) operating systems.

2.2 Installing the Utility

Follow the steps below to install .NET Framework version 1.1 and the PLA-4xx Series
Configuration Utility on your computer.

1 Insert the included CD-ROM into your 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. A prompt appears asking you to install the .NET Framework
version 1.1. Click Ye s to continue with the installation.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

19

Chapter 2 Installing the Configuration Utility

Figure 3 .NET Framework Installation Prompt

2 Review Microsoft’s License Agreement, select I agree and click Install to proceed.

Figure 4 Microsoft’s Agreement

20

3 The next screen allows you to see the progress of the installation.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Figure 5 .NET Framework Installation Process

4 Click OK to complete the installation process.

Figure 6 Microsoft’s Agreement

Chapter 2 Installing the Configuration Utility

5 The Setup utility runs automatically. Click Yes or Next to continue through the initial

screen. Click Cancel only if you want to abort the installation.

Figure 7 InstallShield Wizard Start Screen

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

21

Chapter 2 Installing the Configuration Utility

6 Fill in the User Name and Company Name fields (optional). If you want the utility to

be only available to the currently logged in user, select Only for me(...). Otherwise,
click Next to continue and allow all users to use the configuration utility.

Figure 8 Customer Information Input

7 Click Next to install the utility to the default folder, or click Change to specify a

different location on your computer.

Figure 9 Install Destination Folder

8 The installation wizard is ready to begin the installation. Review your current settings

and click Install to proceed, or Cancel to exit the wizard. Alternatively, click Back to
change the destination of the installation files or user information.

22

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Chapter 2 Installing the Configuration Utility

Figure 10 Install Begin Screen

9 When the installation is finished, a screen appears to confirm the InstallShield Wizard

has successfully installed the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to your computer.
Click Finish to exit the wizard and restart your computer.

Figure 11 Restart Screen

" If you select “No, I will restart my computer later”, you will not be able to launch

the utility until after a restart of your computer.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

23

Chapter 2 Installing the Configuration Utility

24

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

CHAPTER 3

Managing Your PLA-4xx

This chapter shows you how to use the configuration utility to manage security and update
software on the PLA-4xxs in your powerline network.

3.1 Overview

The PLA-4xx is designed as a plug-and-play network expanding solution. This means that
once you complete your hardware connections, the PLA-4xxs in your network (without
additional configuration) are able to communicate with each other by sending and receiving
information over your home’s electrical wiring (A). For the PLA-402 models you have the
option to use coaxial cables (B) to expand your network.

Figure 12 Example Network Setup

B

A

All HomePlug AV compliant powerline adapters within range can join your network. The
range varies depending on the quality of your home’s wiring. In the case of coaxial cable this
can extend beyond the boundary of your home (for example your neighbor’s house or
apartment).

" See Section 3.1.1 on page 26 for more information on enhancing your powerline

network security.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

25

Chapter 3 Managing Your PLA-4xx

3.1.1 Powerline Network Security

When the PLA-4xxs communicate with each other, they use encryption to protect the
information that is sent in the powerline network. Encryption is like a secret code. If you do
not know the secret code, you cannot understand the message. The HomePlug AV standard
uses 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) to safely transmit data between powerline
adapters.

For the powerline adapters to communicate with each other they all need to use the same
network password. This password allows the powerline adapters to understand the encrypted
information sent in the powerline network.

By default the PLA-4xxs are all configured with the password HomePlugAV, this allows you
to simply plug the devices in and not worry about setting up security. If you want to enhance
the security on your powerline network, you can change the network password on the
powerline adapters you want to allow to communicate in your powerline network.

3.1.2 Device Access Key (DAK)

In order to manage the powerline adapters on your powerline network you must enter the
adapters’ password in the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility. This password is called the
DAK (Device Access Key) password. This password is printed on the powerline adapter itself.

You don’t need to enter the DAK password for the powerline adapter directly connected to the
computer running the configuration utility (local powerline adapter), you only have to add the
remote powerline adapters’ passwords (those in your powerline network, but not directly
connected to your computer).

3.2 Starting the Configuration Utility

To launch the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility simply double click on the
configuration icon on your desktop.

Figure 13 PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility Icon

Alternatively, start the utility by browsing to it from the start menu. Click Start > Programs >
ZyXEL Communication Corporation > PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility.

3.3 Configuration Screen

Use the Configuration screen to see which devices are recognized by your powerline
network, gain access to managing remote devices (those not directly connected to the
computer running the configuration utility) and change the powerline network password. This
screen opens up when you launch the configuration utility.

26

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Chapter 3 Managing Your PLA-4xx

" Use the icon to view online help information in each screen of the utility.

Figure 14 Configuration Screen

The following table describes the labels in this screen.

Table 2 Configuration Screen

LABEL DESCRIPTION

Network
Topology

The fields described below are used to identify the PLA-4xxs and other powerline adapters recognized
on the powerline network. The configuration utility automatically updates this information every 10
seconds. Click Scan to refresh the information in these fields (immediately).

Use this to select which powerline network information is displayed. Different
powerline networks are identified by the Ethernet interface (network card) connected
directly to the PLA-4xx. Typically there is only one connection, however, if your
computer has two network cards and both are connected to a PLA-4xx then you have
two powerline networks.

Note: Only devices which share the same network password are displayed in

this table.

Site This field displays

• Local, if it is identifying the PLA-4xx directly connected to the computer running
the configuration utility.

• Remote, if it is a powerline adapter in your powerline network but not directly
connected to the computer running the configuration utility.

MAC Address This is a read-only field which shows the MAC address of the powerline adapter you

are configuring. You can find the MAC address of your PLA-4xx displayed on a sticker
on the bottom of your device.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

27

Chapter 3 Managing Your PLA-4xx

Table 2 Configuration Screen (continued)

LABEL DESCRIPTION

DAK Password DAK (Device Access Key) password is used to verify that you are authorized to

perform changes on a remote device. You can find the DAK password printed on a
sticker on the bottom of your PLA-4xx.

Select the remote powerline adapter you want to manage by clicking the MAC
address which corresponds to it in the MAC Address column. Enter the DAK

Password value and click Save.

Note: You must enter the DAK Password value exactly as it is

Network
Password

Save Click this to apply your changes. The new Network Password is applied to the

The default network password of PLA-4xxs is “HomePlugAV”. The PLA-4xxs use the
same network password to recognize and communicate with each other over the
powerline network. If you change the password of one device on the network, it will no
longer be recognized as part of that network.

If you change the network password, make sure you change the password for all of
the powerline adapters that you want to be part of your powerline network.

The network password can be from 1 to 64 alphanumeric characters in length; spaces
are not allowed.

selected powerline adapter.

printed on the label (all caps and with dashes “-”).

Note: You must enter the correct DAK password for the selected

powerline adapter before you can make changes to it.

3.4 Firmware Screen

Use the Firmware screen to update the firmware on the PLA-4xx directly connected to the
computer running the configuration utility.

Firmware is the software which is embedded in the PLA-4xx. This software contains
processing instructions for how the PLA-4xx sends and receives information in a secure way.

Parameter Information Block (PIB) is similar to firmware. It contains the most basic operating
instructions for the PLA-4xx such as how to power up and how to load the firmware.

You can check the ZyXEL website for firmware upgrades for your PLA-4xx.

" Be sure to upload the correct model firmware as uploading the wrong model

firmware may damage your device.

28

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Chapter 3 Managing Your PLA-4xx

Figure 15 Firmware Screen

The following table describes the labels in this screen.

Table 3 Firmware Screen

LABEL DESCRIPTION

Adapter This field identifies which PLA-4xx is displayed. The powerline adapter is identified by

the Ethernet interface (network card) connected directly to the PLA-4xx. The
displayed information is the model name of the network card. Typically there is only
one connection, however, if your computer has two network cards and both are
connected to a PLA-4xx, then you have two powerline networks.

Firmware
Upgrade

Open PIB File Parameter Information Block (PIB) contains information which tells the PLA-4xx how

Firmware
Location

These fields are used when you want to upgrade the firmware or the PIB (Parameter
Information Block) file on the local device. The local device is the PLA-4xx directly
connected to the computer running the configuration utility.

to perform basic operating instructions.
Click Browse to locate the PIB file you want to upload to the PLA-4xx.

Click Browse to find the firmware file you want to upload to the PLA-4xx.

Note: Remember that you must decompress compressed (.zip)

files before you can upload them.

Write Click this to save the new PIB and firmware files to the PLA-4xx that is directly

connected to the computer running the configuration utility. If the firmware/PIB file
upgrade is successful, a confirmation window displays “Commit Successful”.

Note: If you receive an error message make sure that your paths

point to the correct files before you click the Write button.

3.5 Network Info Screen

Use the Network Info screen to see the rates at which a specific PLA-4xx is communicating
with other powerline adapters on your powerline network.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

29

Chapter 3 Managing Your PLA-4xx

Figure 16 Network Info Screen

The following table describes the labels in this screen.

Table 4 Network Info Screen

LABEL DESCRIPTION

Adapter This field identifies which powerline network information is displayed. Different

Central
Coordinator
MAC

The information provided in the following table reflects transmission rate information about the
powerline adapters which communicate in your powerline network.

The powerline adapters listed in this table are all the powerline adapters in your powerline network
except the powerline adapter selected in the Configuration page of the configuration utility. In other
words, if the Local powerline adapter is selected in the Configuration screen, then this table will
display the rates of transmission from the powerline adapter connected to the computer running the
configuration utility to all the Remote powerline adapters.

Site This field displays:

MAC Address This field displays the MAC address of your powerline adapter. The MAC address of

powerline networks are identified by the Ethernet interface (network card) connected
directly to the PLA-4xx. Typically there is only one connection, however, if your
computer has two network cards and both are connected to a PLA-4xx, then you have
two powerline networks.

The Central Coordinator of the powerline network is the powerline adapter which
keeps track of which devices are part of the network as well as synchronizes
communication within the powerline network. If the Central Coordinator is removed
from the powerline network then another powerline adapter takes its place. This field
displays the MAC address of the PLA-4xx which is the Central Coordinator of the
powerline network. This powerline adapters in your powerline network automatically
select the Central Coordinator.

• Local, if it is the PLA-4xx directly connected to the computer running the
configuration utility.

• Remote, if it is a PLA-4xx in your powerline network but not directly connected to
the computer running the configuration utility.

your powerline adapter can be found by looking at the label on your device. It consists
of six pairs of hexadecimal characters (hexadecimal characters are “0-9” and “a-f”). In
the case of the PLA-4xx, this label is on the bottom of the device.

30

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Table 4 Network Info Screen (continued)

LABEL DESCRIPTION

Transmit Rate This field displays how fast information is sent from the powerline adapter selected in

Receive Rate This field displays how fast information is received from the powerline adapter

3.6 About Screen

Use the About screen to view information regarding the configuration utility and firmware
version of the PLA-4xx you are connected to. Click the icon in the top right corner of the
utility to view the About screen.

Figure 17 About Screen

Chapter 3 Managing Your PLA-4xx

the Configuration screen to this powerline adapter. The rate is given in the following
format: “application data transmission rate / raw data transmission rate”. Application
data reflects more accurately how fast devices are transmitting application relevant
traffic (for example Internet Protocol (IP) traffic). Raw data refers to the whole payload
of the packets transmitted across the powerline network.

selected in the Configuration screen to this powerline adapter. The rate is given in
the following format: “application data transmission rate / raw data transmission rate”.
Application data reflects more accurately how fast devices are transmitting application
relevant traffic (for example Internet Protocol (IP) traffic). Raw data refers to the whole
payload of the packets transmitted across the powerline network.

The following table describes the labels in this screen.

Table 5 About Screen

LABEL DESCRIPTION

Utility version: This field displays the software version of the configuration utility.

Firmware
version

Released This field displays the date when the firmware was released.

Close Click the button in upper right cornet to close the About window.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

This field displays the firmware version of the device you selected in the Device

Selection field of the Configuration screen.

31

Chapter 3 Managing Your PLA-4xx

32

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

CHAPTER 4

Powerline Network Setup

Tutorial

Use this tutorial to expand your existing powerline network.

4.0.1 Overview

After setting up your first home powerline network (instructions for that are in the Quick Start
Guide for your ZyXEL powerline adapter) you may want to extend the network or create a
new one by adding additional powerline adapters. This tutorial shows you the following.

• How to start up your new powerline adapter. You need to do this before you can begin the
next sections.

• How to make your existing powerline network bigger by adding new powerline adapters.

• How to make a new network separate from your existing network with new powerline
adapters.

• How to make a new, separate powerline network with the powerline adapters you have.

The tutorial uses the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to set up your powerline adapter.

If you haven’t already installed the utility, see Chapter 4 on page 33 for instructions. If you do
not have the CD with the utility, the utility software is also available for download at
www.zyxel.com. Navigate to the powerline products section of the ZyXEL website to find this
software. Follow the instructions provided by the software to install it on your computer.

See the product specifications in the User’s Guide for a list of hardware and software
compatible with the utility.

" The PLA-100 is used as an example of a powerline adapter in this tutorial. Your

powerline adapter may be different.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

33

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

4.0.2 Important Terms

Network Password
(NMK)

DAK Password DAK = Device Access Key.

NMK = Network Membership Key.
The network password allows a powerline adapter to connect with

other powerline adapters that have the same network password. It
provides security for your powerline network. The network password
uses English letters or numbers, from 1 to 64 characters long, with
no spaces allowed.

The DAK Password lets you access the powerline adapter. You can
find the DAK Password on a label on your powerline device.

4.0.3 Accessing Your Powerline Adapter

1 Attach the power cord that came in the package to your powerline adapter.
2 Plug the power cord of the powerline adapter you want to add to your network into a

power socket and, if needed, switch the power socket on.

Figure 18 Plug Your Powerline Adapter into a Power Socket

1

2

3 Connect the powerline adapter to your computer.
4 Use a LAN or Ethernet cable (shown below) to connect the LAN or Ethernet port on

your adapter to the same kind of port on your computer.

Figure 19 Connect Your Powerline Adapter to a Computer

3

4

5 Open the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility on your computer. Go to Start > (All)

Programs > ZyXEL Communication Corporation > PLA-4xx Series Configuration
Utility, or click on the icon on your desktop shown below.

34

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Figure 20 Click on the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility Icon

6 You are now ready to extend your powerline network or set up a second network.

• See Section 4.0.4 on page 35 to add a new powerline adapter to your network.

• See Section 4.0.5 on page 37 to set up a second network with your new adapters.

• See Section 4.0.6 on page 38 to set up a second network with your existing adapters.

4.0.4 Adding a Powerline Adapter

This section shows you how to add a new powerline adapter to expand your existing network.

The figure below shows the family computer with Internet access on a powerline network.
Expand the network by adding a new powerline adapter connected to a printer.

Figure 21 Add a Printer to Your Powerline Network

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

Internet

" You do not need to know the network password of the new adapter to add it to

your network.

1 Connect your computer to the powerline adapter you want to add to your network and

open the PLA-4xx Configuration Utility (see Section 4.0.3 on page 34).

2 The utility should open to the configuration tab. On this screen in the Site column your

new powerline adapter should appear as Local (A). Check the Local adapter’s MAC
address (B). It should match the MAC address listed on the label on the back of your
powerline adapter.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

35

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

Figure 22 Adding a New Adapter

A

3 Select your adapter by selecting Local and type the network password for your existing

network in the Network Password (NMK) field (C).

Figure 23 Adding an Adapter to an Existing Network

B

C

36

4 Click Save and click OK on the pop-up.

Figure 24 Network Password Pop-up

5 Your new adapter will now have the same Network Password (NMK) as your existing

network and so has now joined your existing network.

6 Connect the adapter to the device you want to add to the network, for example, your

Internet refrigerator in the kitchen.

7 Plug the adapter’s power cord into a power outlet and, if required, switch the power

outlet on.

8 Repeat this procedure for all additional powerline adapters that you want to add to your

existing or new powerline network.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

4.0.5 Setting Up a New Network with a New Adapter

This section shows you how to use your new powerline adapters to set up a new powerline
network separate to your existing network.

The figure below shows two powerline networks in a house. The first network (1) shows the
home computer connected to a printer and access to the Internet. The second network (2) has
no Internet access but with a media adapter such as the ZyXEL DMA-1100P you can use your
TV to watch movies and play games which are stored on a computer.

Figure 25 Add New Adapters to Make a Second Network

1

Internet

2

1 Connect your new powerline adapter and open the configuration utility as shown in

Section 4.0.5 on page 37. The screen shown below appears.

2 Type a Network Password (NMK) that is different from the Network Password

(NMK) for your existing network. Make sure you use the same new Network Password
(NMK) for all new adapters you want to add to your new network.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

37

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

Figure 26 Making a New Network with the New Adapter

3 After you have set up a new network, you are ready to connect each powerline adapter

on your new network to devices, for example, a computer or a games console.

4.0.6 Splitting a Network into Two Networks

This section shows you how to split your existing network into two networks. This is useful if
you want to set up a second powerline network in your home, for example, in your study
connecting a laptop and printer. See Figure 25 on page 37 for an example.

To set up your existing powerline network you had to set each powerline adapter with the
same network password. To move some of these adapters to a new network, you need to give
them a new network password.

1 Connect a powerline adapter to your computer and open the PLA-4xx Series

Configuration Utility (see Section 4.0.3 on page 34).

2 The utility should open to the configuration tab as shown below. A list of powerline

adapters on your network displays. These adapters all have the same network password
as the adapter you are connected to. The adapter you are connected to will appear as
Local in this table. All others are listed as Remote.

38

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

Figure 27 Local/Remote Adapters on a Powerline Network

3 To set up a new powerline network, type the DAK Password and change the Network

Password (NMK) on all powerline adapters you wish to add to your network.

• Look for the DAK Password on a label on your powerline adapter. The DAK
Password lets you access the adapter.

• Select the Remote adapter you want to add (A) and type the DAK Password in
the DAK Password field (B).

• Then type the new network password in the Network Password (NMK) field.

Figure 28 Adding an Adapter to Your New Network

A

B

4 Click Save.

• If you do not type the DAK password or type it incorrectly either of the following pop­ups appears. Click OK and type the DAK Password correctly in the DAK Password
field.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

39

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

Figure 29 Incorrect DAK or No DAK

• If you have correctly entered the DAK Password, click OK on the pop-up.

Figure 30 Correct DAK

5 The settings for the adapter will now grey out and the adapter will disappear from the

table next time you start up the configurator.

Figure 31 An Adapter on Your New Network

40

6 Go back to step 3 to set the same, new Network Password (NMK) for all remote

adapters you want to add to your new network.

7 Check you have added the adapters correctly by changing the password for the local

adapter. All adapters with the new Network Password (NMK) now appear in the list of
adapters on your network. These adapters are now part of your new network.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

Figure 32 Adapters on a New Powerline Network

• If you want to access any of your new powerline networks using the PLA-4xx Series
Configuration Utility, change the Network Password (NMK) on your local adapter to

the network password for the network you want to access. The adapters on that network
will then display in the adapter table, allowing you to select and configure each one.

4.1 Troubleshooting

The LINK ( ) LED (light) should light up on your adapter when it successfully connects to
other adapters on your network. If it does not, try the following measures.

• Make sure the adapter is plugged in to a power socket and the power socket is turned on.

• Check you have entered the correct network password (NMK) for your network.

• Check your powerline adapter is connected to the same electrical circuit as other
powerline adapters on your network.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

41

Chapter 4 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial

42

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

CHAPTER 5

LEDs and Troubleshooting

This chapter describes the LED behavior and offers some suggestions to solve problems you
might encounter.

5.1 LEDs

The following sections describes the LEDs (lights) of the PLA-401, both the PLA-400 and
PLA-402, and also the PLA-470.

5.1.1 PLA-401

The following figure is the front panel of the PLA-401. Use the LEDs to determine if the PLA­4xx is behaving normally or if there are some problems on your powerline network.

Figure 33 PLA-401 LEDs

The following table describes the LED behavior.

Table 6 PLA-401 LEDs

ICON STATUS DESCRIPTION

On The PLA-401 is on and receiving power.

Off The PLA-401 is not receiving power.

On The POWER port detects another powerline adapter.

Blinking The PLA-401 is communicating with another powerline adapter.

Off The POWER port is not detecting another powerline adapter.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

43

Chapter 5 LEDs and Troubleshooting

ICON STATUS DESCRIPTION

On The ETHERNET port is on and ready and the PLA-401 detects a

Blinking The PLA-401 is communicating with a router, modem, switch or a

Off The PLA-401 does not detect any devices connected to its

5.1.2 PLA-400 and PLA-402

The following figure is the front panel of the PLA-400 and PLA-402. Use the LEDs to
determine if the PLA-4xx is behaving normally or if there are some problems on your
powerline network.

Figure 34 PLA-400/402 LEDs

device connected to it.

computer connected to it.

ETHERNET port.

The following table describes the LED behavior.

Table 7 PLA-400/402 LEDs

LED STATUS DESCRIPTION

PWR On The PLA-400/402 is on and receiving power.

LINK On The POWER port detects another powerline adapter.

ETHN On The LAN port is on and ready and the PLA-400/402 detects a device

5.1.3 PLA-470

The following figure is the front panel of the PLA-470. Use the LEDs to determine if the PLA­470 is behaving normally or if there are some problems on your powerline network.

Off The PLA-400/402 is not receiving power.

Blinking The PLA-400/402 is communicating with another powerline adapter.

Off The POWER port is not detecting another powerline adapter.

connected to it.

Blinking The PLA-400/402 is communicating with a router, modem, switch or

a computer connected to it.

Off The PLA-400/402 does not detect any devices connected to its LAN

port.

44

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Figure 35 PLA-470 LEDs

The following table describes the LED behavior.

Table 8 PLA-470 LEDs

ICON STATUS DESCRIPTION

On The PLA-470 is on and receiving power.

Off The PLA-470 is not receiving power.

On The POWER port detects another powerline adapter.

Blinking The PLA-470 is communicating with another powerline adapter.

Off The POWER port is not detecting another powerline adapter.

On The ETHERNET port is on and ready and the PLA-470 detects a

device connected to it.

Blinking The PLA-470 is communicating with a router, modem, switch or a

computer connected to it.

Off The PLA-470 does not detect any devices connected to its

ETHERNET port.

Chapter 5 LEDs and Troubleshooting

5.2 Power and LED Problems

V The PLA-4xx does not turn on. None of the LEDs turn on.

1 Make sure you are using the power cord included with the PLA-4xx.
2 Make sure the power cord is connected to the PLA-4xx and plugged in to an appropriate

power source. Make sure the power source is turned on.

3 Disconnect and re-connect the power cord to the PLA-4xx.
4 Remove the powerline adapter from the outlet. Then connect an electrical device that

you know works into the same power outlet. This checks the status of the power outlet.

5 If the problem continues, contact the vendor.

V The ETHN LED does not turn on.

1 Check the hardware connections. See the Quick Start Guide.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

45

Chapter 5 LEDs and Troubleshooting

2 Inspect your cables for damage. Contact the vendor to replace any damaged cables.
3 Check the Ethernet adapter on your computer and make sure it’s enabled and working

properly.

4 If the PLA-4xx is connected to an Ethernet switch or router, make sure the device is

working correctly, and that the LAN network is working and configured correctly as
well.

V The LINK LED does not turn on.

1 Use the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to detect all other HomePlug devices on

your powerline network. Make sure that the network password is the same on all of your
powerline adapters.

2 Check the DAK and MAC address for all powerline adapters are typed correctly.
3 Make sure that all your powerline adapters are HomePlug AV compliant. Check the

package it came in or ask your vendor. This PLA-4xx can not detect earlier versions of
HomePlug powerline adapters such as HomePlug 1.0 or 1.0.1. (Although they can
coexist on the same electrical wiring without interfering with each other.)

4 Make sure that the powerline adapters on your network are all on the same electrical

wiring. Connect another powerline adapter into an outlet close to your PLA-4xx’s power
outlet. They are probably now on the same electrical wiring. Check the Link LED. If
it now lights up your powerline adapter was probably previously on separate electrical
wiring. Ask an electrician for more information on the electrical wiring in your building.

5 If your powerline network is using coaxial cable, check all powerline adapters are on the

same coaxial cable.

6 If your powerline network is using electrical wiring (not coaxial cable), check you do not

have a power meter between powerline adapters. Powerline signals cannot pass this.

5.3 Configuration Utility Problems

V The PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility displays an error during installation.

• Make sure your computer is using Windows XP or Windows Vista (32-bit) operating
system. At the time of writing, this is the only compatible operating system for the
configuration utility.

V The PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility does not display all or any of my

devices.

• Inspect the LEDs on your PLA-4xx and make sure that the ETHN and LINK LEDs are on
or blinking. See Section 5.2 on page 45 for troubleshooting LED related problems.

46

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

5.4 Powerline Problems

V The signal on my powerline network is weak.

1 Your powerline adapters may be connected to electrical surge protectors. Connect them

to standard power outlets.

2 Your powerline adapters may be located close to large appliances such as refrigerators or

air-conditioners that cause interference with the powerline signal. Move the adapters
further away from such appliances to reduce interference.

3 Your powerline adapters may be placed close to electrical devices such as electrical

insect-killers which produce radio waves. These may interfere with the powerline
signals. Move the adapters further away from such electrical devices.

4 Your wiring may be old and/or low quality or with a long wiring path.

Chapter 5 LEDs and Troubleshooting

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

47

Chapter 5 LEDs and Troubleshooting

48

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

PART II

Appendices and

Index

Product Specifications (51)

Legal Information (55)

Customer Support (59)

Index (65)

49

50

APPENDIX A

Product Specifications

The following tables summarize the PLA-4xx’s hardware and firmware features.

Table 9 Hardware Specifications

Dimensions (W x D x H) PLA-400/402

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

PLA-470

162 (L) mm x 118 (D) mm x 40 (H) mm

Power Input 100 - 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 0.12 A

Ethernet Port Auto-negotiating: 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps in either half-duplex or full-duplex

Operation Environment Temperature: 0º C ~ 45º C

Storage Environment Temperature: -10º C ~ 70º C

Cabling Type PLA-400/402/470

Network Interface PLA-400/401/402/470

Distance between the
centers of the holes on
the device’s back.

Recommended type of
screws for wall-mounting

mode.
Auto-crossover: Use either crossover or straight-through Ethernet cables.

Humidity: 5% ~ 95% Noncondensing

Humidity: 10% ~ 85% Noncondensing

1 x Power Cord

PLA-400/402

1 x LAN UTP Category 5 or Better

PLA-402

1 x Coaxial Cable

PLA-470

4 x LAN UTP Category 5 or Better

1 x 200 Mbps Powerline port compliant with HomePlug AV standard

PLA-400/401/402

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

PLA-470

4 x 10/100 M Base-T Ethernet Ports with Auto MDI/MDIX

PLA-402

1 x Coaxial Cable Port

PLA-400/402

74 mm

PLA-470

115 0 mm

PLA-400/402/470

M3 Tap Screw

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

51

Appendix A Product Specifications

Table 10 Firmware Specifications

FEATURE DESCRIPTION

Powerline Functionality The HomePlug AV standard specifies how network devices

Encryption 128-bit AES Encryption

Frequency Band 1.8 MHz ~ 30 MHz

Certifications FCC, CE, CUL, UL, HomePlug AV, RoHS

Device Management Use the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to easily configure the PLA-

Network Password Change the powerline network password to only allow the powerline

Firmware Upgrade Download new firmware (when available) from the ZyXEL website and

communicate using standard electrical wiring.
It supports a data transfer rate of up to 200Mbps.
Data is encrypted using 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard).
HomePlug AV compatible devices co-exist with HomePlug 1.0 devices

but do not detect each other.
The range of a HomePlug AV network is 300 meters/984 feet in optimal

conditions.
HomePlug AV is compatible with all OSs.
The maximum number of powerline devices on a single network is 16.
Support for 64 devices communicating on a single network is planned for

future firmware release.

4xx.

adapters you specify to join your network.

use the configuration utility to install it.

Note: Only upload firmware for your specific model!

Tabl e 11 Performance

FEATURE DESCRIPTION

Throughput over PHYsical Transport
Medium (PHY)

Throughput over UDP Supports up to 150 Mbps over in-house power/coaxial

Number of devices in one powerline
network

Supports up to 200 Mbps in half duplex mode

lines (LAN port limits to 100 Mbps)

Supports up to 64 devices in 4 network groups

The following list, which is not exhaustive, illustrates the standards supported in the PLA-4xx.

Table 12 Standards Supported

STANDARD DESCRIPTION

HomePlug AV Designed for transmitting audio/video on a home powerline network.

RFC 868 Time Protocol.

RFC 1112 IGMP v1

RFC 1157 SNMPv1: Simple Network Management Protocol version 1

RFC 1901 SNMP v2c Simple Network Management Protocol version 2c

RFC 2236 Internet Group Management Protocol, Version 2.

52

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

Appendix A Product Specifications

Wall-mounting Instructions

Complete the following steps to hang your PLA-400/402/470 on a wall.

" See Table 9 on page 51 for the size of screws to use and how far apart to place

them.

1 Select a high position on a sturdy wall that is free of obstructions.
2 Drill two holes for the screws. The distance between the centers of the holes is listed in

the product specifications appendix.

1 Be careful to avoid damaging pipes or cables located inside the wall when

drilling holes for the screws.

3 Do not insert the screws all the way into the wall. Leave a small gap of about 0.5 cm

between the heads of the screws and the wall.

4 Make sure the screws are snugly fastened to the wall. They need to hold the weight of

the PLA-4xx with the connection cables.

5 Align the holes on the back of the PLA-4xx with the screws on the wall. Hang the PLA-

4xx on the screws.

Figure 36 Wall-mounting Example

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

53

Appendix A Product Specifications

Cable Pin Assignments

RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments

Figure 37 RJ-45 Connector Pins

Table 13 RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments

PIN NO RJ-45 SIGNAL ASSIGNMENT

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

54

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

APPENDIX B

Legal Information

Copyright

Copyright © 2006 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.

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.

Certifications

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Interference Statement

The 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 device 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 residential installation. This device 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. However, there is
no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

55

Appendix B Legal Information

If this device does cause harmful interference to radio/television reception, which can be
determined by turning the device off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:

1 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
2 Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
3 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.

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

CE-Konformität

Das Produkt entspricht den grundlegenden Anforderungen der Richtlinie 1999/5/EG
(R&TTE) sowie den übrigen einschlägigen Bestimmungen des FTEG und ist zum Betrieb in
der EU und Schweiz vorgesehen. Das Produkt ist eine Einrichtung der Klasse A. Diese
Einrichtung kann im Wohnbereich Funkstörungen verursachen; in diesem Fall kann vom
Betreiber verlangt werden, angemessene Massnahmen durchzuführen.

Conformité CE

Le produit satisfait aux exigences techniques de la directive 1999/5/CE (R&TTE) et est conçu
pour être utilisé au sein de la Communauté européenne et en Suisse. Le produit fait partie de la
classe A, ce qui signifie que son exploitation peut entraîner des bruits parasites dans les zones
d'habitation; le cas échéant, l'exploitant peut être tenu de prendre des mesures appropriées
pour remédier au dérangement.

Conformità CE

Questo prodotto soddisfa le richieste tecniche della direttiva 1999/5/EG (R&TTE) ed è
previsto per il funzionamento nella UE e in Svizzera.Il prodotto è dispositivo della classe A.
Questo dispositivo può causare nel settore abitativo dei radiodisturbi.

In questo caso può essere richiesto al gestore di prendere opportune misure.

Notices

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.

Viewing Certifications

1 Go to http://www.zyxel.com
2 Select your product on the ZyXEL home page to go to that product's page.
3 Select the certification you wish to view from this page.

.

56

PLA-4xx Series 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 or higher value, and will be solely at the discretion of ZyXEL. This warranty
shall not apply if the product has been 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 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.

Appendix B Legal Information

Registration

Register your product online to receive e-mail notices of firmware upgrades and information
at www.zyxel.com for global products, or at www.us.zyxel.com for North American products.

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

57

Appendix B Legal Information

58

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

APPENDIX C

Customer Support

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

Required Information

• 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.

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

Corporate Headquarters (Worldwide)

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.com, www.europe.zyxel.com

• FTP: ftp.zyxel.com, ftp.europe.zyxel.com

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications Corp., 6 Innovation Road II, Science Park,
Hsinchu 300, Taiwan

Costa Rica

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.co.cr

• FTP: ftp.zyxel.co.cr

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Costa Rica, Plaza Roble Escazú, Etapa El Patio, Tercer Piso, San

Czech Republic

• E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.cz

[Document Title]

José, Costa Rica

59

Appendix C Customer Support

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications, Czech s.r.o., Modranská 621, 143 01 Praha 4 ­Modrany, Ceská Republika

Denmark

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.dk

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications A/S, Columbusvej, 2860 Soeborg, Denmark

Finland

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.fi

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications Oy, Malminkaari 10, 00700 Helsinki, Finland

France

• E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.fr

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL France, 1 rue des Vergers, Bat. 1 / C, 69760 Limonest, France

Germany

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.de

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Deutschland GmbH., Adenauerstr. 20/A2 D-52146, Wuerselen,
Germany

Hungary

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.hu

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Hungary, 48, Zoldlomb Str., H-1025, Budapest, Hungary

60

[Document Title]

Appendix C Customer Support

India

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone] to [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: http://www.zyxel.in

• Regular Mail: India - ZyXEL Technology India Pvt Ltd., II-Floor, F2/9 Okhla Phase -1,
New Delhi 110020, India

Japan

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.co.jp

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Japan, 3F, Office T&U, 1-10-10 Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku,
Tokyo 141-0022, Japan

Kazakhstan

• Support: http://zyxel.kz/support

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.kz

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Kazakhstan, 43 Dostyk Ave., Office 414, Dostyk Business Centre,
050010 Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan

Malaysia

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: http://www.zyxel.com.my

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Malaysia Sdn Bhd., 1-02 & 1-03, Jalan Kenari 17F, Bandar
Puchong Jaya, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia

North America

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.us.zyxel.com

• FTP: ftp.us.zyxel.com

[Document Title]

61

Appendix C Customer Support

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications Inc., 1130 N. Miller St., Anaheim, CA 92806­2001, U.S.A.

Norway

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.no

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications A/S, Nils Hansens vei 13, 0667 Oslo, Norway

Poland

• E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.pl.zyxel.com

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications, ul. Okrzei 1A, 03-715 Warszawa, Poland

Russia

• Support: http://zyxel.ru/support

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.ru

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Russia, Ostrovityanova 37a Str., Moscow 117279, Russia

Singapore

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: http://www.zyxel.com.sg

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Singapore Pte Ltd., No. 2 International Business Park, The
Strategry #03-28, Singapore 609930

Spain

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.es

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications, Arte, 21 5ª planta, 28033 Madrid, Spain

62

[Document Title]

Appendix C Customer Support

Sweden

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.se

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications A/S, Sjöporten 4, 41764 Göteborg, Sweden

Thailand

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: http://www.zyxel.co.th

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Thailand Co., Ltd., 1/1 Moo 2, Ratchaphruk Road, Bangrak-Noi,
Muang, Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand.

Ukraine

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone]

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.ua.zyxel.com

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Ukraine, 13, Pimonenko Str., Kiev 04050, Ukraine

United Kingdom

• Support E-mail: [e-mail]

• Sales E-mail: [e-mail]

• Telephone: [phone] (UK only)

• Fax: [phone]

• Web: www.zyxel.co.uk

• FTP: ftp.zyxel.co.uk

• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications UK Ltd., 11 The Courtyard, Eastern Road,
Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 2XB, United Kingdom (UK)

[Document Title]

63

Appendix C Customer Support

64

[Document Title]

Index

Index

Symbols

.NET Framework 19

A

about screen 31
Advanced Encryption Standard, see AES 15
AES 17, 25
AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) 15
applications 15, 16

C

cable

coaxial 16
cabling type 51
CE 52
certifications 52, 55

notices 56

viewing 56
coaxial cable 16
configuration screen 26
connections overview 15, 16
contact information 59
copyright 55
customer support 59

D

E

electrical and cable wiring 25
electrical circuit boundaries 25
encryption 15, 25, 52
ETHN LED 43

F

FCC 52
FCC interference statement 55
firmware 28
firmware errors 29
frequency band 52

H

HomePlug AV standard 15
humidity, operation and storage 51

I

installation

overview 19
procedure 19

requirements 19
InstallShield wizard 21
introduction 15

DAK 26, 27
DAK (Data Access Password) 17
Data Access Password, see DAK 17
dimensions 51
disclaimer 55

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide

L

LED 43

ETHN 43

LINK 43

PWR 43
LINK LED 43
local vs. remote adapter 27

65

Index

M

MAC address 27
management

multiple networks 17
overview 25

managing the device

using the web configurator. See web configurator.

multiple networks 18

N

network example 25
network information 29
network ports 51

P

Parameter Information Block, see PIB 28
passwords 26, 27, 28

types of 17
PIB (Parameter Information Block) 28
plug-and-play 25
power specification 51
private network 17
problems and solutions 43
product registration 57
PWR LED 43

passwords 17
starting the utility 26
syntax conventions 4

T

temperature, operation and storage 51
trademarks 55
transfer rates 15
transmit rate 29
troubleshooting 43

U

utility

launching 26

W

warranty 57

note 57
web configurator 16

R

receive rate 29
registration

customer information 22
product 57
user name 22

related documentation 3

S

safety warnings 5
screws 53
security 16, 17, 26

66

PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide