Efficient Networks has announced a HomePlug Powerline enabled 802.11b Access Point.



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It seems that this is based on Intellon RD51X1AP Reference Design.

This might be the answer for those that are complaining about the range of their 802.11b networks and spending loads of money for RF gear with little or no return at the end (and also creating a lot illegal interference). 802.11b technology allows and encourages using multiple AP to cover wider area but until now linking the AP to the same LAN required pulling Ethernet cable to the desired AP location which may be the issue we are trying to avoid in the first place or borrowing assistance from a pair of Phoneline (HPNA2)-Ethernet bridge or HomePlug Powerline-Ethernet adapter (bridge) which added to the cost of AP significantly making the project significantly cost prohitive as well.

Now, you can solve the range issue by the addition of this wall-plug 802.11b AP from Efficient at the point you want coverage and you can link the wall-plug AP to the rest of your Network using a Powerline to Ethernet adapter (bridge). In fact, since you are now more flexible in AP location this could be your only AP as well which means the additional cost of using this AP would be limited to the Powerline to Ethernet adapter.

It is expected that powerline enabled AP will cost about $130. But, the Poweline to Ethernet adapters cost around $80-90 at this moment (online).

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