Thanks umairsal for this one that was sent in via email. Chinese researchers recently developed a technology to access the Internet via power lines.
This technology is expected to rapidly increase Internet usage in China.
Developed by the Fujian Electric Power Testing and Research Institute and known as 10Mbps digitized power line (DPL), the technology enables computers to access the Internet via a USB power line communication adapter.
Data communication can be made via a power line between computers and any electrical equipment, such as computers, TVs, DVDs and even heating devices through a modem, making remote control easier.
Lin Han, president of the research institute, said that the technology is at a high standard in speed and stability to similar technology in other countries.
The technology works well with a voltage ranges from 180 to 240 volts, with a maximum data transmission speed of 10Mbps. According to the institute, the technology is now ready for commercial use.
The special modem required will cost around RMB500 (US$60.24) in mass production, which is about the same cost as conventional modems.