Imagine all of the people in the buildings that you design or construct experiencing the benefits of broadband without your wiring for anything more than electricity. You can use the wiring that’s already providing electricity to every outlet in order to bring workers broadband access. The technology is called broadband over power line (BPL) and it is the epitome of simplicity. Best of all, BPL works through any standard outlet in a building and works more consistently than wireless because it is not hindered by brick, stucco or radio frequency (RF) filtering glass that cause problems for wireless technologies.

BPL customers—and there are several implementations around the world—simply plug a modem-like device into any outlet and gain access to the Internet from any room in a workspace. The resident or worker can place their computer equipment wherever they would like, instead of being beholden to cable or phone outlet locations. Furthermore, the pricing is less expensive than cable or traditional DSL options. For areas where wireless has proven unfeasible or spotty at best, BPL makes a great alternative or complement. This is especially the case in older buildings where new wiring is not an economical option.

Energy Efficiency: a By-Product Benefit

A perhaps more interesting or compelling option that designers and builders can offer would be to use the BPL networks to offer Smart Building options. Through such an initiative, the data capabilities brought about through BPL allow owners to operate environmental controls and deliver electricity much more efficiently. The building owner could put in controls to detect when any and all of the lights are on or off, for example.

Smart systems brought about by a BPL network enable end-users and suppliers to continuously monitor and control the use and cost of resources that are essential to operating buildings and residences, including electricity, gas, water, temperature, air quality, and secure access.

How Does It Work?

With some simple wiring and a few pieces of equipment, the same wires used to deliver electricity are now used for the Internet. Users plug a simple modem-like device into their outlets and then connect their computer to the device. Should owners want more access to monitoring capabilities such as those energy efficiency capabilities referenced above, all that is required are some additional sensor installations.

Due to recent improvements in BPL technology, an entire building can be set up for service in a matter of days. Next generation technology has made the transition very easy and reliable for a number of multi-unit initiatives.

Why Broadband Over Power Line? Some Very Good Reasons…

People like to move their “stuff” around. BPL allows users to move their computers to any area without having to think about where the phone or cable outlet is located.

BPL works well with wireless—BPL is extremely secure while a wireless complement can still provide the un-tethered mobility that users enjoy. For the building owner, BPL is often less expensive than typical wired or wireless options

BPL is great for rehabbing projects because it takes advantage of existing wiring, without requiring new infrastructure

BPL is proven: implementations are happening all over the world

In addition to brick and stucco, RF blocking glass (used in areas like Texas, California and Arizona) causes an obstruction to wireless signals – not a problem for BPL technology

Offering reliable BPL broadband access with added environmental benefits can give your properties a differentiation that is compelling economically, from a services standpoint and from an innovation perspective—the future of BPL has a promising outlook for both Internet connectivity and energy efficiency.