BROADBAND OVER POWER LINES

This website provides general information about an emerging Internet technology known as broadband over power line (BPL) or power line communications (PLC).

BPL enables companies to provide Internet or other data connectivity over existing power lines, which users can tap into anywhere there is an electrical outlet.

Find out more about this interesting technology, including how it works and what some of its drawbacks are, below.

- CONTENTS -

1. INTRODUCTION
   Provides an overview of BPL technology, more about its promise, and what it offers.

2. THE INTERNET
   Describes the Internet and the role of Internet Service Providers (ISPs).

3. THE POWER TRANSMISSION AND DISTRIBUTION GRID
   Explains the electric grid, including how electricity (and Internet connectivity) is transmitted from the power plant to the home user.

4. BUNDLING INTERNET DATA WITH THE ELECTRICITY
   Explains the theory behind bundling Internet data and electric current using radio frequencies.

5. THE HOMESTRETCH
   Explains how the home is connected to the power line and the rest of the network.

6. INTERFERENCE AND CONCLUSION
   Explains the most common technical concern regarding BPL and some final thoughts.

7. MORE INFORMATION
   References and links to related sites.