The HomePlug Alliance is not an electronics manufacturer, nor is there a HomePlug surge protector on the market. The HomePlug Powerline Alliance is a group of like-minded individuals that founded an institution which created an industry standard for specifications regarding networks utilizing the same electrical line and interconnecting with each other. In other words, they created standards handling multiple devices on the same network.
HomePlug network problems that arise from these standards are the lack of surge protection devices included in their products though damages caused to electronic appliances from power surges, especially in network appliances like computers and computer equipment, is a known and accepted risk. The use of a network surge protector to safeguard sensitive electronic equipment from surges in electrical power is crucial to Ethernet connections that most networks rely on. With higher and higher speeds coming out of the growing technology comes higher risks as dirty power infiltrates these fragile lines. It’s not very expensive to replace damaged Ethernet lines, but the damage inflicted on computer equipment can be quite costly. However, that was before standards in Ethernet connections came along.
Before the Alliance there was no standard. In the short time they’ve been around they have created several platforms for standardized practices in connecting electronic devices into power sources like broadband and other applications with power lines. HomePlug 1.0 was their first release in 2001. It protected electronic devices used in the home, which could be plugged into multiple outlets through one power source. It controls the flow of power but does not protect against surges. So, if there were a lightning blast to hit the power lines chances are your broadband connection would be destroyed along with your computer.
There are surge protectors that conform to HomePlug standards but they are few and far between. One is made by Belkin, who is always on top of their game in the field of surge protection. In their SurgeMaster family there is a HomePlug surge protector compatibility device that will connect into the network and protect your equipment. Few manufacturers comply with the HomePlug standards. While you can still connect them, they will affect the performance of the HomePlug equipment, which could slow or stop data flow.
So while HomePlug is an incredible resource in power conditioning it still lacks in certain basics. Finding a solution to HomePlug surge protector compatibility still is a ways off.
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