Introduction
In this connected world, there are 3 basic methods of getting information from one computer to another. All 3 have their advantages. And disadvantages. These methods are:
Wired Ethernet networking provides the fastest and highest quality signal. However, running cable can get quite expensive to run in homes that do not lend itself to running cable. It also severely limits the mobility of mobile computers such as notebooks and netbooks.
Wireless networking allows one to “cut the cable”. While wireless has improved greatly over the years, particularly with wireless-N technology, limited range along with “cold” spots have hampered it’s success for streaming media.
Powerline networking is basically another form of Ethernet cable networking. The difference is that powerline networking uses the electrical wiring in a home to duplicate the function of routing Ethernet cable to areas that would not be accessible otherwise. It is there to provide Ethernet cable quality networking for steaming media. It is not as fast as Ethernet cable, and it not as flexible as wireless networking; it is simply an alternative when the other options are not feasible.
The TP-LINK AV200 Mini Powerline Adapter Starter Kit is one product that falls into that last networking method. I am always eager to check out powerline kits since running running Ethernet cable is not economically feasible in my home, and I have had issues trying to stream wirelessly.
If you are looking at powerline networking, here is your opportunity to see another kit in action.
What’s In The Box?
The AV200 adapter kit comes in a consumer oriented package with the typical white to yellow to green TP-LINK color scheme. From a marketing perspective, it looks nice. At least to a marketing impaired engineering type like myself.
The packaging provides a potential customer a very good idea of what is inside and what it can do for him or her.
Digging down into the inner packaging, you find the adapters well protected for the trip from the factory to your home or business.
Once the contents have been removed, you will find a set of TL-PA211 adapters, Ethernet cables, Quick Installation Guide, a couple of product catalogs, and a Resource CD.
A few close ups of the TL-PA211 adapters
