POWERLINE technology - using the electrical grid within the home to extend Internet coverage - has been around for a while.

It is relatively cheap and does away with the need for additional wiring.

But while WLAN might well extend reach, it often cannot penetrate thick walls, whereas the electrical grid covers an entire house.

Now powerline has also gone wireless. Aztech's HL109RN HomePlug 4-port Wireless N router has a built-in 200Mbps powerline chip.

This means while it can connect to other HomePlug devices in the powerline network, it also serves as a wireless router. This is a first in the Singapore market.

HL109RN can connect to wireless devices and with other HomePlug devices via a 'simple connect' button. This makes pairing very easy.

How much: $249. Product will be on display at Booth 6356 at Comex.

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