Intel PCs to offer powerline networking by 2008

Intel plans to include support for the HomePlug networking technology as an optional feature for desktop platforms by 2008, the company revealed at its Intel Developer Forum in Beijing. 

The HomePlug standard uses existing power lines inside the home to transmit data at speeds up to 200Mbps.

The technology is governed by the HomePlug Powerline Alliance, a group that Intel left in 2000 but rejoined in 2005.  

HomePlug connections are currently available through special adapters that plug into a PC through a USB or Ethernet connection. The introduction of the technology into the platform eliminates the need for special adapters.

Intel generally favours wireless networking technologies over wired solutions such as HomePlug.

But powerline technology offers the bandwidth required for streaming high definition television and video throughout the home, providing bandwidth beyond that of wireless networks.