PLC

Power line communication technology, PLC makes it possible to connect to the internet using the existing mains electricity grid.

It relies on separating the low frequency signal (alternating current) from the high frequency carrier wave for the digital data. This separation means that the operation of electrical equipment is not disrupted. Power line communication is mainly used to share a broadband connection in a local network (businesses, schools etc.).

As this technology is developed, it should, along with other so-called alternative technologies, provide broadband connectivity to areas that at present have none.

Rates from 4 to 45 Mbit/s shared among various users can be obtained. It is mainly intended for professionals, but offers for the general public are starting to appear. These offers generally include a terminal that has to be connected to an electrical socket on one side and the network interface card on the other side (Ethernet card).