TP-LINK TL-WPA281 User manual

TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Rev: 1.0.0
1910010522
COPYRIGHT & TRADEMARKS
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
is a registered trademark of
TP-LINK TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD. Other brands and product names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective holders.
No part of the specifications may be reproduced in any form or by any means or used to make any
derivative such as translation, transformation, or adaptation without permission from TP-LINK
TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD. Copyright © 2011 TP-LINK TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD. All rights
reserved.
http://www.tp-link.com
FCC STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate
radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to
correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
•
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
•
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
•
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
•
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1)
This device may not cause harmful interference.
2)
This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Note: The manufacturer is not responsible for any radio or tv interference caused by unauthorized
modifications to this equipment. Such modifications could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement
This equipment complies with FCC RF radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. This device and its antenna must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any
other antenna or transmitter.
“To comply with FCC RF exposure compliance requirements, this grant is applicable to only Mobile
Configurations. The antennas used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance
of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter.”
CE Mark Warning
This is a class B product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference, in which
case the user may be required to take adequate measures.
National restrictions
This device is intended for home and office use in all EU countries (and other countries following the EU
directive 1999/5/EC) without any limitation except for the countries mentioned below:
Country
Restriction
Reason/remark
Bulgaria
None
General authorization required for outdoor use and
public service
France
Outdoor use limited to 10
mW e.i.r.p. within the band
2454-2483.5 MHz
Military Radiolocation use. Refarming of the 2.4 GHz
band has been ongoing in recent years to allow current
relaxed regulation. Full implementation planned 2012
Italy
None
If used outside of own premises, general authorization is
required
Luxembourg
None
General authorization required for network and service
supply(not for spectrum)
Norway
Implemented
This subsection does not apply for the geographical area
within a radius of 20 km from the centre of Ny-Ålesund
Russian Federation
None
Only for indoor applications
Note: Please don’t use the product outdoors in France.
TP-LINK TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
For the following equipment:
Product Description: Wireless N Powerline Extender
Model No.: TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Trademark: TP-LINK
We declare under our own responsibility that the above products satisfy all the technical regulations
applicable to the product within the scope of Council Directives:
Directives 1999/5/EC
The above product is in conformity with the following standards or other normative documents
ETSI EN 300 328 V1.7.1: 2006
ETSI EN 301 489-1 V1.8.1:2008& ETSI EN 301 489-17 V2.1.1:2009
EN60950-1:2006+A11:2009+A1:2010
Recommendation 1999/519/EC
EN62311:2008
Directives 2004/108/EC
The above product is in conformity with the following standards or other normative documents
EN 55022:2006 +A1:2007
EN50412-2-1：2005
EN 61000-3-2:2006+A1:2009+A2:2009
EN 61000-3-3:2008
Directives 2006/95/EC
The above product is in conformity with the following standards or other normative documents
EN60950-1:2006+A11:2009+A1:2010
Person is responsible for marking this declaration:
Yang Hongliang
Product Manager of International Business
TP-LINK TECHNOLOGIES CO., LTD
South Building, No.5 Keyuan Road, Central Zone, Science & Technology Park, Nanshan,
Shenzhen, P. R. China
Important Safety Instructions
1. Do not open this product or attempt to service it; it may expose you to dangerous high voltage or
other risks.
2. Do not operate this product near water.
3. Do not place or operate this product near a radiator or a heat register.
4. Do not expose this product to dampness, dust or corrosive liquids.
5. Do not connect this product or disconnect it from a wall socket during a lightning or a thunderstorm
6. Do not block the ventilation slots of this product, for insufficient airflow may harm it.
7. Do not put anything on this product.
8. Plug this product directly into a wall socket (100V~240V, 50~60Hz). Do not use an extension cord
between this product and the AC power source.
9. When plugging this product into a wall socket, make sure that the electrical socket is not damaged,
and that there is no gas leakage.
10. Place the connecting cables properly so that people won’t stumble or walk on it.
11. This product should be operated from the type of power indicated on the marking label. If you are not
sure of the type of power available, consult the qualified technician.
12. Unplug this product from the mains and refer the product to qualified service personnel for the
following conditions:
¾ If liquid has been spilled on the product
¾ If the product has been exposed to rain or water
13. Unplug this product from the wall socket before cleaning. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Do not use
liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners.
14. The specification of the fuse is T2.5AL250V. To avoid damage, please do not change the fuse.
15. The Operating temperature is 0℃~40℃ (32℉~104℉).
The Storage temperature is -40℃~70℃ (-40℉~158℉).
CONTENTS
Chapter 1 Introduction.......................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 System Requirement ..................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Package Contents ......................................................................................................................... 1
1.3 Conventions................................................................................................................................... 2
Chapter 2 Hardware Connection.......................................................................................................... 3
2.1 Before You Begin........................................................................................................................... 3
2.2 LED Indicator................................................................................................................................. 3
2.3 Physical Interface .......................................................................................................................... 4
2.4 Hardware Connection .................................................................................................................... 5
Chapter 3 Configure the Device........................................................................................................... 8
3.1 Login.............................................................................................................................................. 8
3.2 Status............................................................................................................................................. 9
3.3 WPS .............................................................................................................................................11
3.4 Network ....................................................................................................................................... 17
3.5 Wireless....................................................................................................................................... 18
3.5.1 Wireless Settings ................................................................................................................................ 18
3.5.2 Wireless Security ................................................................................................................................ 20
3.5.3 Wireless MAC Filtering ...................................................................................................................... 23
3.5.4 Wireless Advanced ............................................................................................................................. 25
3.5.5 Wireless Statistics............................................................................................................................... 26
3.6 Powerline..................................................................................................................................... 27
3.6.1 Network Settings................................................................................................................................. 27
3.6.2 Station Settings ................................................................................................................................... 28
3.6.3 QoS Setting ......................................................................................................................................... 29
3.7 System Tools ............................................................................................................................... 30
3.7.1 Firmware Upgrade .............................................................................................................................. 31
3.7.2 Factory Defaults .................................................................................................................................. 32
3.7.3 Backup & Restore............................................................................................................................... 32
3.7.4 Reboot .................................................................................................................................................. 33
3.7.5 Password ............................................................................................................................................. 33
3.7.6 System Log.......................................................................................................................................... 34
Chapter 4 Connecting to Wireless Network...................................................................................... 35
4.1 In Windows 7 ............................................................................................................................... 35
4.2 In Windows Vista ......................................................................................................................... 36
4.3 In Windows XP ............................................................................................................................ 38
Chapter 5 Pair Buttons ....................................................................................................................... 40
5.1 Pair (Secure with 128 bits-AES) .................................................................................................. 40
5.2 Setting Up a Powerline Network with the Pair Button .................................................................. 40
5.3 Reset ........................................................................................................................................... 41
Appendix A: Troubleshooting Guide ................................................................................................. 42
Appendix B: Specifications................................................................................................................ 43
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Chapter 1
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of this outstanding Wireless N Powerline Extender. This device is not
only a 200Mbps Powerline Ethernet Adapter which transforms your house’s existing electrical wiring into
a ubiquitous networking infrastructure but also a 300Mbps/150Mbps Wireless N Access Point which
creates a wireless network allowing for greater range and mobility.
As a Powerline Ethernet Adapter, it uses the existing power lines installed in a home as a path to
transmit digital data, voice, audio and video between devices. Simply plug this Wireless N Powerline
Extender into an ordinary AC power outlet, and then your Cable/xDSL broadband connection or existing
Ethernet (LAN) network can be easily extended to any other electrical outlet in any room of a house with
the absence of cabling. With powerline data rates of 200Mbps, full multimedia application can easily be
supported throughout the whole house.
As a Wireless N Access Point, it uses IEEE 802.11n wireless technology and can transmit wireless data
at the rate of up to 300Mbps/150Mbps. With multiple protection measures including SSID broadcast
control, wireless LAN WEP encryption, and WiFi Protected Access (WPA2- PSK, WPA-PSK), the device
delivers complete data privacy.
It supports an easy, Web-based management utility. Even though you may not be familiar with the
device, you can easily configure it with the help of this Guide. The adapter adds two new functions which
are found to be useful.
1. Connection with a new unassociated device via the Pair button.
2. Reset to default settings via the Reset button.
1.1 System Requirement
a) At least two AC 100V ~ 240V power outlets with standard home power wiring
b) A computer with the following:
¾ Operating System of Windows XP, Windows Vista or Windows 7
¾ Operating System with TCP/IP installed
¾ Pentium III compatible processor and above
¾ Ethernet LAN card installed with TCP/IP protocol
¾ 64 MB RAM or more
¾ 50 MB of free disk space (Minimum)
¾ CD-ROM Drive
1.2 Package Contents
The package contains the following items:
¾
One Wireless N Powerline Extender
¾
One Ethernet Cable
¾
One Quick Installation Guide
¾
One Resource CD (including Management Utility and User Guide)
If any of the above items are damaged or missing, please contact your distributor immediately.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
1.3 Conventions
The Extender, or TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271, or device mentioned in this User Guide stands for
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271 Wireless N Powerline Extender without any explanations.
Parameters provided in the pictures are just references for setting up the product. They may differ from
the actual situation.
You can set the parameters according to your demand.
) Note:
This User Guide is shared by TL-WPA281 and TL-WPA271. Here in this Guide we use TL-WPA281 for
example.
The difference between them is:
¾
TL-WPA281 Wireless N Powerline Extender with wireless data rate of up to 300Mbps;
¾
TL-WPA271 Wireless N Powerline Extender with wireless data rate of up to 150Mbps.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Chapter 2
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Hardware Connection
2.1 Before You Begin
Please read this User Guide carefully before installing and using the equipment. The operating distance
or range of your wireless connection varies significantly based on the physical placement of the
Powerline Extender. Factors that can weaken signals by getting in the way of your network’s radio
waves are metal appliances or obstructions, and walls. Typical ranges vary based on the types of
materials and background RF (radio frequency) noise in your home or office.
For best performance of your wireless network, you are suggested to place your Powerline Extender:
1).
2).
3).
4).
5).
Near the center of the area in which your wireless stations will operate.
In an elevated location such as a high shelf.
Away from the potential sources of interference, such as PCs, microwaves, and cordless phones.
With the Antenna in the upright position.
Away from large metal surfaces.
Failure to follow these guidelines can result in significant performance degradation or inability to
wirelessly connect to the Powerline Extender.
) Note:
Take notes that this Wireless N Powerline Extender works in pairs or with another powerline adapter.
You need to plug the Wireless N Powerline Extender into a power outlet; you will also need another
Wireless N Powerline Extender or Powerline Ethernet Adapter connected to your Cable/xDSL
broadband (Ethernet port) in order to extend your broadband connection or Internet surfing. With clean
powerline, the distance between two Powerline Ethernet Adapters can reach 300 meters, but the actual
distance may vary due to the environment.
Section below describes the Wireless N Powerline Extender’s LED indicators, physical interface and
hardware connection mechanism.
2.2 LED Indicator
The LED indicator displays information about the device’s status.
3
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
LEDs
Name
Power LED
Powerline
LED
Status
The device is on.
Off
The device is off.
Off
Blinking
Solid
Ethernet LED
Off
Blinking
Solid
WiFi/WPS
LED
Indication
Solid
Solid
Off
Wireless N Powerline Extender
The device is connected to a powerline network.
The adapter isn’t connected to any powerline network.
The device is transferring data.
The Ethernet port is connected, but there is no data being
transferred.
The Ethernet port isn’t connected.
The Ethernet port is transferring data.
If the LED becomes solid light for 300 seconds, this
indicates a successful WPS connection.
The wireless function has been disabled.
Blinking slowly
The device is waiting for client devices to connect to it by
WPS.
Blinking quickly
The wireless function has been enabled.
2.3 Physical Interface
There are four physical items on this device.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
WiFi/WPS Button
Ethernet Port
Pair Button
Reset Button
Item
Description
WiFi/WPS
Press the button for 2 seconds, the Extender will wait to be connected by WPS.
Pressing the button for 5 seconds will enable or disable the wireless function.
Ethernet
One 10/100Mbps Ethernet port connected to PC LAN card or broadband device.
Reset
Pair
Use a pin to press and hold this Reset button for approximately 10 seconds, then
the device will restore to factory defaults.
Pair buttons are used to secure a powerline network.
) Note:
1.
If you press the Pair button for more than 10 seconds, The Extender will leave the network it is
associated with and its network name assumes a random value.
2.
For detail information about the Reset button and Pair button, please refer to Chapter 5 Pair
Buttons.
2.4 Hardware Connection
Please first make sure that your PC can successfully access the Internet via the Router. Then connect
the powerline devices following the instructions below.
Step 1: Connecting to the Internet
This section describes how to connect the Powerline Extender into your existing network. Follow the
procedures described below:
1． Connect an Ethernet (RJ45) cable to the Ethernet port of the Powerline Extender or a compatible
Powerline Adapter like TL-PA211.
2． Connect the other end of the Ethernet (RJ45) cable to an available Ethernet port of your broadband
Router.
3． Plug the Powerline Extender or Powerline Adapter into a wall socket.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
4． Check and confirm the LEDs status. (The Power LED and Ethernet LED on the Powerline Extender
should be ON.)
The hardware connection mechanism is shown below:
) Note:
Do not connect the Powerline Extender or Powerline Adapter to an extension lead, power strip,
extension cord, or surge protector as this may degrade the network performance.
Step 2: Connecting the Computer
Following are the steps to properly connect the Powerline Extender to your computer:
1． Connect the provided Ethernet (RJ45) cable to the Powerline Extender’s Ethernet port.
2． Connect the other end of the Ethernet (RJ45) cable to you computer’s LAN port.
3． Plug the Powerline Extender into a wall socket next to the computer.
4． Turn on your computer.
5． Check and confirm that the Power LED and Ethernet LED on the Powerline Extender are ON.
The hardware connection mechanism is shown below:
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
As soon as the powerline devices are connected following the steps above, a usable powerline network
is available.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Chapter 3
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Configure the Device
This Chapter describes how to configure your Access Point via the web-based management page. The
TL-WPA281 Wireless N Powerline Extender is easy to configure and manage with the Web-based
(Internet Explorer, Netscape® Navigator, Firefox, Safari, Opera or Chrome) management page, which
can be launched on any windows, Macintosh or UNIX OS with a web browser.
3.1 Login
1. Insert the TP-LINK Resource CD into the CD-ROM drive. The following screen will appear. Select
model TL-WPA281 and then choose Management Utility from the drop-down menu.
Figure 3-1 Setup Wizard
2. Find the model to be configured and click Connect to log in the Web-based management utility.
Figure 3-2 Management Utility
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
) Note:
If another TL-WPA281 is displayed on the screen above and you cannot decide which model is the one
you are configuring, please refer to the MAC address under MAC Address column. The device’s MAC
address can be found on the label at the bottom of the device.
3. Enter admin for the User name and Password (both in lower case letters) in the screen below. Then
click OK or press Enter.
Figure 3-3 Login Window
) Note:
If the above screen does not prompt, it means that your web-browser has been set to a proxy. Go to
Tools menu>Internet Options>Connections>LAN Settings, in the screen that appears, cancel the
Using Proxy checkbox, and click OK to finish it.
After a successful login, you can configure and manage the device. There are six main menus on the
leftmost column of the Web-based management page: Status, WPS, Network, Wireless, Powerline
and System Tools. Submenus will be available after clicking one of the main menus. On the right of the
Web-based management page lays the detailed explanations and instructions for the corresponding
page.
3.2 Status
The Status page displays the Powerline Extender’s current status and configuration. All information is
read-only.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 3-4 Status
¾
Firmware Version - This field displays the current firmware version of the Powerline Extender.
¾
Hardware Version - This field displays the current hardware version of the Powerline Extender.
¾
Powerline - This field displays the current settings or information for powerline, including the MAC
address, Device Password and Network Name which can be configured on the Powerline →
Network Settings page.
¾
¾
z
MAC Address - The physical address of the Powerline Extender, as seen from powerline.
z
Device Password - The security ID that restricts access to critical device functions.
z
Network Name - The name that identifies a logical network.
Network - The following parameters apply to the Ethernet port of the Powerline Extender. You can
configure them on the Network page.
z
MAC Address - The physical address of the Powerline Extender's Ethernet port.
z
IP Address - The IP address of the Powerline Extender.
z
Subnet Mask - The subnet mask associated with IP address.
Wireless - This field displays the current settings or information for Wireless. They can be
configured on the Wireless → Wireless Settings page.
10
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
¾
Wireless N Powerline Extender
z
Wireless Radio - Indicates whether the wireless radio feature of the Powerline Extender is
enabled or disabled.
z
Name (SSID) - The SSID of the Powerline Extender.
z
Channel - The wireless channel in use.
z
Mode - The current wireless mode the Powerline Extender works on.
z
Channel Width - The bandwidth of the wireless channel.
z
MAC Address - The physical address of the Powerline Extender, as seen from the WLAN.
System Up Time - This filed displays the length of the time since the Powerline Extender was last
powered on or reset.
Click the Refresh button to get the latest status and settings of the Powerline Extender.
3.3 WPS
WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) can help you quickly and securely connect to a network. This section will
guide you to add a new wireless device to an existing network quickly by WPS function. Select menu
WPS to load the next screen as shown in Figure 3-5.
Figure 3-5 WPS
¾
WPS Status - Enable or disable the WPS function here.
¾
Current PIN - The current value of the Powerline Extender's PIN is displayed here. The default
PIN of the Powerline Extender can be found in the User Guide or on the label at the bottom of the
device.
¾
Restore PIN - Restore the PIN of the device to its default.
¾
Gen New PIN - Click this button, and then you can get a new random value for the device's PIN.
You can ensure the network security by generating a new PIN.
¾
Add device - You can add a new device to the existing network manually by clicking this button.
To add a new device:
If a wireless adapter supports Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) or QSS (Quick Secure Setup) you can
establish a wireless connection between the wireless adapter and the Powerline Extender using either
Push Button Configuration (PBC) method or PIN method.
) Note:
To build a successful connection by WPS, you should also do corresponding configuration on the new
device meanwhile.
For the configuration of the new device, here takes the Wireless Adapter of our company for example.
11
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
I.
Wireless N Powerline Extender
By PBC
If the wireless adapter supports Wi-Fi Protected Setup and the Push Button Configuration (PBC)
method, you can add it to the network by PBC with the following two methods.
Method One:
Step 1: Press the WPS button on the front panel of the device for 2 seconds.
Step 2: Within two minutes, press and hold the QSS button of the adapter directly for 2 or 3 seconds.
(QSS, also called WPS, is used by our company on the wireless adapter.)
Step 3:
Wait for a while until the next screen appears. Click Finish to complete the WPS configuration.
The status LED on the Powerline Extender will light green for five minutes if the device has
been successfully added to the network.
The WPS Configuration Screen of Wireless Adapter
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Method Two:
Step 1: Press the WPS button on the front panel of the device for 2 seconds.
Step 2: For the configuration of the wireless adapter, please choose Push the button on my access
point in the configuration utility of the WPS as below, and click Next. (QSS, also called WPS, is
used by our company on the wireless adapter.)
The WPS Configuration Screen of Wireless Adapter
Step 3: Wait for a while until the next screen appears. Click Finish to complete the WPS configuration.
The status LED on the Powerline Extender will light green for five minutes if the device has
been successfully added to the network.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
The WPS Configuration Screen of Wireless Adapter
Method Three:
Step 1:
Keep the default WPS Status as Enabled and click the Add device button in Figure 3-5, then
the following screen will appear.
Figure 3-6
Add a New Device
Step 2:
Choose Press the button of the new device in two minutes and click Connect.
Step 3:
For the configuration of the wireless adapter, please choose Push the button on my access
point in the configuration utility of the WPS as below, and click Next. (QSS, also called WPS,
is used by our company on the wireless adapter.)
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
The WPS Configuration Screen of Wireless Adapter
Step 4:
Wait for a while until the next screen appears. Click Finish to complete the WPS configuration.
The status LED on the Powerline Extender will light green for five minutes if the device has
been successfully added to the network.
The WPS Configuration Screen of Wireless Adapter
II. By PIN
If the new device supports Wi-Fi Protected Setup and the PIN method, you can add it to the network by
PIN with the following two methods.
Method One: Enter the PIN into my Powerline Extender
Step 1: Keep the default WPS Status as Enabled and click the Add device button in Figure 3-5, then
the following screen will appear.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 3-7 Add a New Device
Step 2: Choose Enter the new device's PIN and enter the PIN code (take 16952898 for example) of
the wireless adapter in the field after PIN as shown in the figure above. Then click Connect.
) Note:
The PIN code of the adapter is always displayed on the WPS configuration screen as shown in the
following figure.
Step 3: For the configuration of the wireless adapter, please choose Enter a PIN into my access point
or a registrar in the configuration utility of the WPS as below, and click Next. (QSS, also called
WPS, is used by our company on the wireless adapter.)
The WPS Configuration Screen of Wireless Adapter
) Note:
In this example, the default PIN code of this adapter is 16952898 as the above figure shows.
Method Two: Enter the PIN from my Powerline Extender
Step 1: Get the Current PIN code of the Powerline Extender in Figure 3-5 (Each Powerline Extender
has its unique PIN code. Here takes the PIN code 12345670 of this device for example).
Step 2: For the configuration of the wireless adapter, please choose Enter a PIN from my access
point in the configuration utility of the WPS as below, and enter the PIN code of the Extender
into the field after Access Point PIN. Then click Next. (QSS, also called WPS, is used by our
company on the wireless adapter.)
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
The WPS Configuration Screen of Wireless Adapter
) Note:
The default PIN code of the Powerline Extender can be found on its label or on its WPS configuration
page as shown in Figure 3-5.
You will see the following screen when the new device has successfully connected to the network.
Figure 3-8 Successfully Added a New Device
) Note:
a.
The WPS LED on the Powerline Extender will light green for five minutes if the device has been
successfully added to the network.
b.
The WPS function cannot be configured if the Wireless function of the Powerline Extender is
disabled. Please make sure the wireless function is enabled before configuring the WPS.
3.4 Network
You can configure the IP parameters of the Powerline Extender on this page.
Figure 3-9 Network
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
¾
¾
¾
Wireless N Powerline Extender
MAC Address - The physical address of the Powerline Extender's Ethernet port. The value can not
be changed.
IP Address - Enter the IP address of the Powerline Extender in dotted-decimal notation (factory
default setting is 192.168.1.1).
Subnet Mask - An address code that determines the size of the network. Usually it is
255.255.255.0.
Click the Save button to save your settings.
) Note:
If you change the IP address, you must use the new IP address to log in to the Powerline Extender.
3.5 Wireless
The Wireless option, improving functionality and performance for wireless network, can help you make
the Powerline Extender an ideal solution for your wireless network. Here you can create a wireless local
area network just through a few settings. Wireless Settings is used for the configuration of some basic
parameters of the Powerline Extender. Wireless Security provides three different security types to
secure your data and thus providing greater security for your wireless network. MAC filtering allows you
to control the access of wireless stations to the Powerline Extender. Wireless Advanced allows you to
configure some advanced parameters for the Powerline Extender. Wireless statistics enables you to get
detailed information about the current connected wireless stations.
There are five submenus under the Wireless menu (shown in Figure 3-10): Wireless Settings,
Wireless Security, Wireless MAC Filtering, Wireless Advanced and Wireless Statistics. Click any
of them and you will be able to configure the corresponding function. The detailed explanations for each
submenu are provided below.
Figure 3-10 Wireless menu
3.5.1 Wireless Settings
Selecting Wireless > Wireless Settings will enable you to configure the basic settings for your wireless
network on the screen below (Figure 3-11).
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 3-11 Wireless Settings
¾
SSID (Set Service Identifier) - Identifies your wireless network name. Enter a value of up to 32
characters. The same Name (SSID) must be assigned to all wireless devices in your network. The
default SSID is TP-LINK_XXXXXX (XXXXXX indicates the last six unique characters of each
device’s MAC address). This value is case-sensitive. For example, TEST is not the same as test.
¾
Region - Select your region from the pull-down list. This field specifies the region where the
wireless function of the Powerline Extender can be used. It may be illegal to use the wireless
function of the Powerline Extender in a region other than one of those specified in this filed. If your
country or region is not listed, please contact your local government agency for assistance.
When you select your local region from the pull-down list, click the Save button, then the Note
Dialog appears. Click OK.
Note Dialog
¾
Channel - This field determines which operating frequency will be used. It is not necessary to
change the wireless channel unless you notice interference problems with another nearby access
point. If you select Auto, then the Powerline Extender will choose the best channel automatically.
¾
Mode - Select the desired wireless mode. The options are:
•
11b only - Only 802.11b wireless stations can connect to the device.
•
11g only - Only 802.11g wireless stations can connect to the device.
•
11n only - Only 802.11n wireless stations can connect to the device.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
•
11bg mixed - Both 802.11b and 802.11g wireless stations can connect to the device.
•
11bgn mixed - All 802.11b, 802.11g and 802.11n wireless stations can connect to the device.
If all of the wireless devices connected with the Powerline Extender can connect in the same
transmission mode (eg. 802.11b), you can choose the Only mode (eg. 11b only). If you have some
devices that use different transmission modes, choose the appropriate Mixed mode.
¾
Channel Width - Determines the channel width to be used. It is unnecessary to change the default
value unless required.
¾
Max Tx Rate - Specifies the maximum transmit rate of the device through this field.
¾
Enable Wireless Powerline Extender Radio - The wireless radio of the Powerline Extender can
be enabled or disabled to allow or deny wireless stations to access. If it is enabled, the wireless
stations will be able to access the Powerline Extender; otherwise, wireless stations will not be able
to access the Powerline Extender.
¾
Enable SSID Broadcast - Selecting this check box will allow the device to broadcast its name
(SSID) on the air. If it’s allowed, when wireless clients survey the local area for wireless networks
to associate with, they will detect the SSID broadcast by the device.
) Note:
To apply any settings you have altered on the page, please click the Save button, and then you will be
reminded to reboot the device.
3.5.2 Wireless Security
Selecting Wireless > Wireless Security will enable you to configure wireless security for your wireless
network to protect your data from intruders. The Powerline Extender provides three security types: WEP,
WPA/WPA2 and WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK. Wireless security can be set on the following screen shown as
Figure 3-12.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 3-12 Wireless Security
¾
Disable Security - Check this radio button to disable wireless security. If disabled, the wireless
stations will be able to connect this device without encryption. It is strongly recommended that you
choose one of the security types to enable security.
¾
WEP - Select 802.11 WEP security.
Figure 3-13 WEP
•
Type - You can select one of following types.
9
Automatic - Select Shared Key or Open System authentication type automatically based
on the wireless station's capability and request.
9
Shared Key - Select 802.11 Shared Key authentication type.
9
Open System - Select 802.11 Open System authentication.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
•
WEP Key Format - You can select ASCII or Hexadecimal format. ASCII format stands for any
combination of keyboard characters in the specified length. Hexadecimal format stands for any
combination of hexadecimal digits (0-9, a-f, A-F) in the specified length.
•
WEP Key - Select which of the four keys will be used and enter the matching WEP key
information for your network in the selected key radio button. These values must be identical on
all wireless stations in your network.
•
Key Type - You can select the WEP key length (64-bit, or 128-bit) for encryption. "Disabled"
means this WEP key entry is invalid.
9
For 64-bit encryption - You can enter 10 hexadecimal digits (any combination of 0-9, a-f,
A-F, zero key is not permitted) or 5 ASCII characters.
9
For 128-bit encryption - You can enter 26 hexadecimal digits (any combination of 0-9, a-f,
A-F, zero key is not permitted) or 13 ASCII characters.
) Note:
If you do not set the key, the wireless security function is still disabled even if you have selected Shared
Key as Authentication Type.
¾
WPA/WPA2 - Select WPA/WPA2 based on Radius Server.
Figure 3-14 WPA/WPA2
•
¾
Version - You can select one of following versions.
9
Automatic - Select WPA or WPA2 automatically based on the wireless station's capability
and request.
9
WPA - Wi-Fi Protected Access.
9
WPA2 - WPA version 2.
•
Encryption - You can select either Automatic, TKIP or AES.
•
Radius Server IP - Enter the IP address of the Radius Server.
•
Radius Port - Enter the port used by radius service.
•
Radius Password - Enter the password for the Radius Server.
•
Group Key Update Period - Specify the group key update interval in seconds. The value can
be either 0 or at least 30. Enter 0 to disable the update.
WPA-PSK/ WPA2-PSK - Select WPA based on pre-shared key.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 3-15 WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK
•
Version - You can select one of following versions.
9
Automatic - Select WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK automatically based on the wireless station's
capability and request.
9
WPA-PSK - Pre-shared key of WPA.
9
WPA2-PSK - Pre-shared key of WPA2.
•
Encryption - When you select WPA-PSK or WPA2-PSK for Authentication Type, you can
select either Automatic, TKIP or AES as Encryption.
•
PSK Passphrase - Enter a passphrase here.
•
Group Key Update Period - Specify the group key update interval in seconds. The value can
be either 0 or at least 30. Enter 0 to disable the update.
Be sure to click the Save button to save your settings on this page.
) Note:
You will be reminded to reboot the device after clicking the Save button.
3.5.3 Wireless MAC Filtering
Selecting Wireless > Wireless MAC Filtering will allow you to set up some filtering rules to control
wireless stations accessing the device, which depends on the station’s MAC address on the following
screen as shown in Figure 3-16.
Figure 3-16 Wireless MAC Filtering
¾
Wireless MAC Filtering - Click the Enable button to enable the Wireless MAC Address Filtering.
The default setting is disabled.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
To Add a Wireless MAC Address filtering entry, click the Add New… button. The “Add or Modify
Wireless MAC Address Filtering entry" page will appear, shown in Figure 3-17.
Figure 3-17 Add or Modify Wireless MAC Address Filtering entry
¾
MAC Address - Enter the wireless station's MAC address that you want to control.
¾
Description - Give a simple description of the wireless station.
¾
Status - Select a status for this entry, either Enabled or Disabled.
To set up an entry, follow these instructions:
First, you must decide whether the unspecified wireless stations can access the device or not. If you
desire that the unspecified wireless stations can access the device, please select the radio button Allow
the stations not specified by any enabled entries in the list to access, otherwise, select the radio
button Deny the stations not specified by any enabled entries in the list to access.
To add a MAC Address Filtering entry, follow these instructions:
1.
Enter the appropriate MAC Address into the MAC Address field. The format of the MAC Address is
XX-XX-XX-XX-XX-XX (X is any hexadecimal digit). For example: 00-0A-EB-B0-00-0B.
2.
Enter a simple description of the wireless station in the Description field. For example: wireless
station A.
3.
Select Enabled or Disabled for this entry on the Status pull-down list.
4.
Click the Save button to save this entry.
To add additional entries, repeat steps 1-4.
To modify or delete an existing entry:
1.
Click the Modify in the entry you want to modify. If you want to delete the entry, click the Delete.
2.
Modify the information.
3.
Click the Save button.
Click the Enable All button to make all entries enabled
Click the Disabled All button to make all entries disabled.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
Click the Delete All button to delete all entries
Click the Next button to go to the next page and click the Previous button to return to the previous page.
For example: If you desire that the wireless station A with MAC address 00-0A-EB-00- 07-BE is able to
access the device, while all other wireless stations cannot access the device, you should configure the
Wireless MAC Address Filtering list by following these steps:
1. Click the Enable button to enable this function.
2. Select the radio button: Deny the stations not specified by any enabled entries in the list to
access for Filtering Rules.
3. Delete all or disable all entries if there are any entries already.
4. Click the Add New... button and enter the MAC address 00-0A-EB-00-07-BE in the MAC Address
field, enter Wireless Station A in the Description field and select Enabled in the Status pull-down
list. Click the Save button.
The filtering rules that configured should be similar to the following list:
) Note:
If you enable the function and select Deny the stations not specified by any enabled entries in the
list to access for Filtering Rules but there isn’t any enabled entry in the list, thus, no wireless stations
can access the device.
3.5.4 Wireless Advanced
Selecting Wireless > Wireless Advanced will allow you to do some advanced settings for the device in
the following screen shown in Figure 3-18. As the configuration for each operation mode is almost the
same, we take Access Point mode for example here.
Figure 3-18 Wireless Advanced
¾
Transmit Power - Specifies the transmit power of the device. You can select High, Middle or Low
based on your need. High is the default setting and is recommended.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
¾
Beacon Interval - Specifies a value between 40-1000 milliseconds. The beacons are the packets
sent by the device to synchronize a wireless network. Beacon Interval value determines the time
interval of the beacons. The default value is 100.
¾
RTS Threshold - Specifies the RTS (Request to Send) Threshold. If the packet is larger than the
specified RTS Threshold size, the device will send RTS frames to a particular receiving station and
negotiate the sending of a data frame. The default value is 2346.
¾
Fragmentation Threshold - This value is the maximum size determining whether packets will be
fragmented. Setting the Fragmentation Threshold too low may result in poor network performance
since excessive packets. 2346 is the default setting and is recommended.
¾
DTIM Interval - Determines the interval of the Delivery Traffic Indication Message (DTIM). You can
specify the value between 1-255 Beacon Intervals. The default value is 1, which indicates the
DTIM Interval is the same as Beacon Interval.
¾
Enable WMM - WMM function can guarantee the packets with high- priority messages being
transmitted preferentially. It is strongly recommended that this function be enabled.
¾
Enable Short GI - This function is recommended for it will increase the data capacity by reducing
the guard interval time.
¾
Enable AP Isolation - Isolates all connected wireless stations so that wireless stations cannot
access each other through WLAN. This function will be disabled if WDS/Bridge is enabled.
) Note:
If you are not familiar with the setting items on this page, it's strongly recommended that you keep the
provided default values; otherwise, it may result in low wireless network performance.
3.5.5 Wireless Statistics
Selecting Wireless > Wireless Statistics will allow you to see the wireless transmission information in
the following screen shown in Figure 3-19. This page shows MAC Address, Current Status, Received
Packets and Sent Packets for each connected wireless station.
Figure 3-19 Statistics of the device attached wireless stations
¾
MAC Address - Shows the connected wireless station's MAC address.
¾
Current Status - The connected wireless station's running status, one of STA-AUTH / STA-ASSOC
/ STA-JOINED / WPA / WPA-PSK / WPA2 / WPA2-PSK / AP-UP / AP-DOWN / Disconnected.
¾
Received Packets - Packets received by the station.
¾
Sent Packets - Packets sent by the station.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
You cannot change any of the values on this page. To update this page and to show the current
connected wireless stations, click the Refresh button.
If the numbers of connected wireless stations go beyond one page, click the Next button to go to the
next page and click the Previous button to return to the previous page.
) Note:
This page will be refreshed automatically every 5 seconds.
3.6 Powerline
There are three submenus under the Powerline menu (shown in Figure 3-10): Network Settings,
Station Settings and QoS Setting. Click any of them, and you will be able to configure the
corresponding function. The detailed explanations for each submenu are provided below.
Figure 3-20 Wireless menu
3.6.1 Network Settings
Selecting Powerline > Network Settings, and you can configure the network name of the Powerline
Extender or all the stations in current network on this page.
Figure 3-21 Network Settings
¾
MAC Address - The physical address of the Powerline Extender, as seen from the powerline. The
value can not be changed.
¾
Device Password - The password of the Powerline Extender. The value can not be changed.
¾
Network Name - Enter the network name (factory default - HomePlugAV).
Click the Default button to enter the default network name.
Click the Set Local button to set the Powerline Extender.
Click the Set All button to set all stations which entered the correct passwords in current network,
including the Powerline Extender.
) Note:
If you set all stations network name, the remote ones which power off or entered the wrong password
will not take effect.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
3.6.2 Station Settings
The Station Settings page shows remote stations in current network and allows you to enter, modify or
delete the password and name for each station.
Figure 3-22 Station Settings
¾
MAC Address - The remote station's MAC address. The value can not be changed.
¾
Device Password - The security ID of remote station.
¾
Device Name - The name used for identifing a station.
To add or modify a station entry, click the Add or Modify button in operation column and following these
instructions:
1. Enter the station password in Device Password field. The format of the password is
XXXX-XXXX-XXXX-XXXX (X is any character). For example, RLXL-BYPI-MZBO-OPAB.
2. Enter a name you want to give the station in the Device Name field or leave it empty. For
example, Station A.
3. Click the Save button to save this entry.
Figure 3-23 Add or Modify PLC Station entry
To add or modify another entries, repeat steps 1~3.
Click the Delete button in the operation column to delete a station entry.
Click the Add New... button to add a station into current network. The steps are the same as adding a
station entry.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 3-24 Add a new station
Click the Refresh button to update the current connected stations.
Click the Next button to go to the next page and click the Previous button to return to the previous
page.
) Note:
You can do Add or Modify operation only when the remote station is connected. If the remote station
which you entered the password is power off or leave the current network, you can only do Delete
operation.
3.6.3 QoS Setting
You can configure the QoS parameters of the Powerline Extender on this page.
Figure 3-25 QoS Setttings
29
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
¾
¾
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Simple Application Mapping - The group allows you to choose what type of traffic with the highest
user priority you will use your local device for by pitching on one of the following four radios.
z
Internet - The Internet Application Mapping be use to Internet server.
z
Online Game - The Online Game Application Mapping be use to Online Game server.
z
Audio or Video - The Audio or Video Application Mapping be use to Audio or Video server.
z
Voice over IP - The Voice over IP Application Mapping be use to Voice over IP server.
Advanced Priority Mapping: The group sets VLAN priority and TOS priority to CAP mapping and
other priority.
z
VLAN Tages - Host frames can be priority classified based on VLAN CoS bits. Each
combination of the CoS bits can be independently assigned to a priority queue.
z
TOS Bits - Classification can be based on TOS priority bits in the same manner as the VLAN
CoS bits.
z
Unicast Priority - Unicast frames are those destined to a unique MAC addresses. These
frames to CAP1 by default.
z
Mcast Priority - Multicast frames not managed by IGMP and broadcast frames such as ARP
frames are transmitted at the specified priority, default is CAP1.
z
IGMP Priority - IGMP frames are defined by the Internet Group Management Protocol and
represent management messages passed between various network infrastructure
components.As a management protocol, these frames are by default classified at the highest
CAP3 by default.
z
AV Stream Priority - AV Stream is placed in the specified priority queue, default is CAP2.
) Note:
1.
CAP3 is the highest priority while CAP0 is the lowest priority.CAP3 is used for the delivery of voice
and urgent MMEs and control messages such as IGMP and MLD,CAP2 is used for the delivery of
video and non urgent MMEs, CAP0 and CAP1 are used for delivery of best effort data.
2.
If both VLAN and TOS are enabled and a frame is found that contains both, VLAN Tags will
override TOS Bits.
Click the Save button to save your settings.
3.7 System Tools
System Tools option helps you to optimize the configuration of your device. You can upgrade the
Powerline Extender to the latest version of firmware as well as backup or restore the device’s
configuration files. It’s suggested that you change the default password to a more secure one because it
controls access to the device’s web-based management page. Besides, you can find out what
happened to the system in System Log.
There are six submenus under the System Tools menu (shown as Figure 3-26): Firmware Upgrade,
Factory Defaults, Backup & Restore, Reboot, Password and System Log. Clicking any of them will
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
enable you to configure the corresponding function. The detailed explanations for each submenu are
provided below.
Figure 3-26 The System Tools menu
3.7.1 Firmware Upgrade
Selecting System Tools > Firmware Upgrade allows you to upgrade the latest version of firmware for
the device on the screen shown in Figure 3-27.
Figure 3-27 Firmware Upgrade
New firmware versions are posted at http://www.tp-link.com and can be downloaded for free.
¾
Firmware Version - Here displays the current firmware version.
¾
Hardware Version - Here displays the current hardware version. The hardware version of the
upgrade file must accord with the current hardware version.
) Note:
1
There is no need to upgrade the firmware unless the new firmware has a new feature you want to
use. However, when experiencing problems caused by the device itself, you can try to upgrade the
firmware.
2
Before upgrading the device’s firmware, you should write down some of your customized settings to
avoid losing important configuration settings of device.
To upgrade the device's firmware, follow these instructions:
1.
Download a more recent firmware upgrade file from the TP-LINK website (http://www.tp-link.com).
2.
Enter the path name or click Browse… to select the downloaded file on the computer into the File
blank.
3.
Click Upgrade.
4.
The Powerline Extender will reboot while the upgrading has been finished.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
) Note:
The firmware version must correspond to the hardware. The upgrade process takes a few moments and
the Powerline Extender restarts automatically when the upgrade is complete. It is important to keep
power applied during the entire process. Loss of power during the upgrade could damage the Powerline
Extender.
3.7.2 Factory Defaults
Selecting System Tools > Factory Defaults allows you to restore the factory default settings for the
device on the screen shown in Figure 3-28.
Figure 3-28 Restore Factory Defaults
Click Restore to reset all configuration settings to their default values.
•
Default User Name: admin
•
Default Password: admin
•
Default IP Address: 192.168.1.1
•
Default Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
) Note:
Any settings you have saved will be lost when the default settings are restored.
3.7.3 Backup & Restore
Selecting System Tools > Backup & Restore allows you to save all configuration settings to your local
computer as a file or restore the device's configuration on the screen shown in Figure 3-29.
Figure 3-29 Save or Restore the Configuration
Click Backup to save all configuration settings to your local computer as a file.
To restore the device's configuration, follow these instructions:
•
Click Browse… to find the configuration file which you want to restore.
•
Click Restore to update the configuration with the file whose path is the one you have input or
selected in the blank.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
) Note:
1.
The current configuration will be covered with the uploading configuration file.
2. Wrong process will lead the device unmanaged.
3. The restoring process lasts for about 20 seconds and restarts automatically. Do not power off the
device during the process to avoid any damage.
3.7.4 Reboot
Selecting System Tools > Reboot allows you to reboot the device on the screen shown in Figure 3-30.
Figure 3-30 Reboot the device
Click the Reboot button to reboot the device.
Some settings of the device will take effect only after rebooting, which include:
•
Change the Powerline Extender's IP Address (system will reboot automatically).
•
Change the Wireless configurations.
•
Upgrade the firmware of the Powerline Extender (system will reboot automatically).
•
Restore the Powerline Extender's settings to the factory defaults (system will reboot
automatically).
•
Update the configuration with the file (system will reboot automatically).
3.7.5 Password
Selecting System Tools > Password allows you to change the factory default user name and password
of the device on the screen shown in Figure 3-31.
Figure 3-31 Password
It is strongly recommended that you change the factory default user name and password of the device.
33
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
All users who try to access the device's web-based management page or Quick Setup will be prompted
for the device's user name and password.
) Note:
The new user name and password must not exceed 14 characters in length and must not include any
spaces. Enter the new Password again to confirm it.
Click Save when finished.
Click Clear All to clear all.
3.7.6 System Log
Selecting System Tools > System Log allows you to query the Logs of the device on the screen shown
in Figure 3-32.
Figure 3-32 System Log
The device can keep logs of all traffic. You can query the logs to find what happened to the device.
Click the Refresh button to show the latest log list.
Click the Clear All button to clear all logs.
34
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Chapter 4
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Connecting to Wireless Network
4.1 In Windows 7
Windows 7 users may use the built-in wireless utility. Follow the steps below.
in your system tray (lower-right corner). The utility will display any
1. Left-click the wireless icon
available wireless networks in your area. Select the wireless network (displayed using the SSID) to
be connected and then click Connect.
Figure 4-1
2.
If the network you would like to connect is security-enabled, enter the same security key or
passphrase that is on your router; or push the WPS button on the router or access point (You will be
prompted to push the button on the window if WPS function is supported as shown in the figure
below). If the network to be connected is not secure, the connection will be built without entering a
key.
35
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 4-2
3.
You have joined the home network and can surf the Internet now.
Figure 4-3
4.2 In Windows Vista
Windows Vista users may use the built-in wireless utility. Follow the steps below.
1. Open the wireless utility by right-clicking on the wireless computer icon in your system tray as
shown in the figure below. Select Connect to a network.
36
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 4-4
2.
The utility will display any available wireless networks in your area. Select the wireless network you
would like to connect and then click Connect.
Figure 4-5
3.
If the network you would like to connect is security-enabled, enter the same security key or
passphrase that is on your router. If the network to be connected is not secure, the connection will
be built without entering a key.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 4-6
4.
You have joined the home network and can surf the Internet now. Click close to finish the
connection.
Figure 4-7
4.3 In Windows XP
Windows XP users may use the built-in wireless utility. Follow the steps below.
1. Right-click on the wireless computer icon in your system tray (lower-right corner). Select View
Available Wireless Networks.
38
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Figure 4-8
2.
The utility will display any available wireless networks in your area. Click on a network (displayed
using the SSID) and click the Connect button.
Figure 4-9
3.
If the network is security-enabled, you will be prompted to enter the key as shown below. If not, you
will connect to the network directly without entering a key.
Figure 4-10
39
TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Chapter 5
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Pair Buttons
5.1 Pair (Secure with 128 bits-AES)
The Homeplug AV standard uses 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) to safely transmit data
between powerline dvices. For the powerline devices to communicate with each other, they all need to
use the same Network Membership Key (NMK). Otherwise, they cannot unscramble the encrypted data
sent in the powerline network.
The Pair button allows you to set up a secure powerline connection with other HomePlug AV compliant
powerline devices which also support the Pair feature. Here takes TP-LINK powerline devices for
example (PA211 for device A and C, WPA281 for device B).
5.2 Setting Up a Powerline Network with the Pair Button
You can connect a number of devices on a powerline network, but you can use the Pair button on only
two devices at a time.
Create a Powerline network using the Pair button：
Step 1. Press and hold the Pair button of Powerline device A TL-PA211 for 3 to 8 seconds, the Power
LED will start flashing.
Step 2. Press and hold the Pair button of Powerline device B TL-WPA281 for 1 second, the Power LED
will start flashing.
(This must be done within 120 seconds after pressing the Pair button of Powerline device A.)
Step 3.
Wait for about 60 seconds while your Powerline device A and B are connecting. The Power
LED on both devices will stop flashing and become solid light when the connection is made.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Join an existing Powerline Network:
Powerline device A and Powerline device B form a HomeplugAV Network, and Powerline device C
wants to join this network.
Step 1.
Press and hold the Pair button on Powerline device C TL-PA211 for 3 to 8 seconds.
Step 2.
Press and hold the Pair button on Powerline device A/B for 1 second/3 to 8 seconds.
(This step must be taken within 120 seconds after step 1 is finished.)
Step 3.
Wait for about 60 seconds while your Powerline devices are connecting. The Power LED on
Powerline device A/B and C will stop flashing and become solid light when the connection is
made.
) Note:
The sequence of Step 1 and Step 2 can be exchanged.
Leave an existing Powerline Network:
As the figure above shows, Powerline device A, B and C have formed a HomeplugAV Network. The user
wants to remove one device (Powerline adapter C) from this network.
Step 1.
Press and hold the Pair button on Powerline device C for at least 10 seconds. Powerline
device C will reset and restart.
Step 2.
Wait for the reset to complete.
5.3 Reset
To reset the Powerline device：
Press and hold the Reset button for about 10 seconds, and then release the button. You will see all
LEDs begin to flash. At this moment, the default settings have been restored.
Be careful, don’t power off when the device is in reset process.
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Wireless N Powerline Extender
Appendix A: Troubleshooting Guide
The Troubleshooting Guide provides answers to common problems regarding the Powerline Ethernet
Adapter.
1. The Power LED does not light up.
Ans. Check the following:
1.
Make sure that the Powerline Extender is properly plugged into a power outlet.
2.
Make sure the power outlet is active (working) by plugging another electric device into it.
3.
Re-plug the Powerline Extender to the power outlet.
4.
If the Power LED still fails to light up, contact your local dealer for technical support.
2. The Ethernet LED does not light up.
Ans. Check the following:
1. Make sure that the Ethernet cable (RJ-45) is properly connected to the Powerline Extender’s
Ethernet port and the other end of the Ethernet cable (RJ-45) is properly connected to the
computer LAN card or to your Cable/xDSL Ethernet port.
2. Make sure your computer LAN card is properly installed and configured.
3. Make sure your Cable/xDSL broadband access is working and configured correctly.
4. Contact your local dealer for technical support if the Ethernet LED still fails to light up after the
above procedures.
3. Powerline LED does not light up.
Ans. Check the following:
1. Double-click to enable the Management Utility and click the “Rescan” tab. The Management
Utility will automatically detect all other Powerline Extender on your powerline network.
2. Try to plug a Powerline Ethernet Adapter into a nearby power outlet and check whether the
Powerline LED lights up or not.
3. Make sure that the device is plugged into a wall socket instead of a power strip,
4. Follow the method in “5.2 Setting Up a Powerline Network with the Pair Button” to establish the
connection again.
5. Reset the device to its factory default values.
6. Contact your local dealer for technical support if the Powerline LED still fails to light up after the
above procedures.
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TL-WPA281/TL-WPA271
Wireless N Powerline Extender
Appendix B: Specifications
General
Standards
HomePlug AV, IEEE802.3, IEEE802.3u
Modulation Technology
OFDM, 1024/256/64/16/8-QAM, QPSK, BPSK and ROBO
Data Rate
200Mbps for powerline
300Mbps for wireless
Range
300 meters in house
LEDs
Power, Powerline, Ethernet, WiFi/WPS
Interface
1 Ethernet LAN Port
Encryption
128-bit AES
Physical and Environment
Operating Temperature
0℃~40℃ (32℉~104℉)
Operating Humidity
10%~90%RH, Non-condensing
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