CNET editors' review
-
CNET editors' rating:
stars
OK
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 10/29/2004
- Released on: 11/01/2003
Like the manuals for the Corinex Powerline router, the Wireless to Powerline access point's user guides could stand some editing. Networking newbies will likely be confused by the text-heavy setup descriptions and the missing words in the quick-start guide. More experienced users should soon discern that the physical setup simply entails plugging the device into an AC outlet and screwing in its antenna. To determine whether the AP is connected to your power-line network, install and run the Setup Tool from the included CD on a connected PC, then look for the AP's MAC address amid the other MAC addresses on your power-line network.
The Wireless to Powerline access point has a browser-based configuration tool that's similar to the tools of most wireless APs. The Corinex tool allows you to manage the AP's satisfying wireless security features, such as SSID, 64- and 128-bit encryption, up to four WEP keys, and WPA settings. The same tool lets you alter power-line network settings, including your NEK (network encryption key).
The Wireless to Powerline access point may have a similar software setup to that of other Wi-Fi APs, but its performance differs considerably. The device pushed data through our test suite at 5.1Mbps, which pales in comparison to the speeds shown by wireless access points such as the D-Link DWL-2100AP. On the other hand, 5.1Mbps is a fast score for a power-line network--only the 5.2Mbps score earned by the Netgear XE102 beats it.
Continue reading
