Few electronics are designed to work alone these days, nearly everything can perform some form of digital communication. We use routers to communicate with computers to other computers to VoIP phones to your home theater system. That's a whole lot of wires!

A consumer electronics consortium called the HomePlug Alliance has created ways for electronics to communicate digitally through AC power lines. Digital communications are only supported through HomePlug’s scheme because analogue signals would suffer interference through a 60Hz AC line.

The HomePlug Alliance is surging forward, hooking up with new members throughout the consumer electronics industry. High powered members include Sony, Samsung, Intel, Motorola, Comcast, Linksys, Sharp and many others.

Most devices that use AC power and sends/receives data digitally can benefit from the specs being developed by the HomePlug Alliance. This includes audio, video and especially networking and internet connections. It's a convenience to make wiring simple and home owners happy.

HomePlug Networking

Microsoft's Engineering conference in Seattle, Washington featured exhibits from many HomePlug member companies. The conference should help the specification solidify its membership. Program director at Microsoft, Scott Manchester sums it up.

"Microsoft sees HomePlug powerline technology as an innovative way of delivering the digital lifestyle experience to consumers. The HomePlug Alliance is focused on standards and interoperability through certification which provides users with a simple, yet powerful home networking solution."