NETGEAR Powerline 200 Mini XAVB1301 Starter Kit: features and how it works

The NETGEAR Powerline 200 Mini (XAVB1301) starter kit is a pair of small adapters that carry a wired network connection over a home's electrical wiring. You plug one next to your router and another in a room where you want an Ethernet connection. Here is how the system works and what the specs mean.

How powerline networking works

Each adapter plugs into a wall outlet and has an Ethernet port. One connects by cable to your router, and the second can connect a desktop PC, games console or set-top box in another room. The two adapters then talk to each other over the building's wiring. NETGEAR says the kit extends internet access to any electrical outlet. The adapters are HomePlug AV compliant, which is the standard that lets compatible powerline products work together.

What 200 Mbps means

NETGEAR rates each adapter at speeds up to 200 Mbps, with one 200 Mbps Powerline AV interface and one 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port. The figure is a link rate, so real-world throughput is typically lower and depends on wiring quality, distance and electrical noise. NETGEAR says the speeds suit applications such as multiplayer online gaming.

Because the Ethernet port is 10/100, it won't carry more than 100 Mbps in any case. Check that your internet plan's speed fits within what the adapters offer.

Setup and security

The kit is plug-and-play, and NETGEAR says it sets up in minutes with no software to install. A Push-and-Secure button secures the connection between the adapters with the touch of a button, so you don't need to remember passwords. Optional software is available for Windows 7, Vista, XP or Mac OS X to visualise the network.

Pick-a-Plug LED

A Pick-a-Plug LED automatically tests the connection between the two adapters and indicates performance, which helps you choose the outlet that gives the best link. It can save moving the adapters around by trial and error.

Compatibility

NETGEAR says the adapter is compatible with 200 and 500 Mbps adapters. Its listing names other models in the same family, such as the Powerline 500 and Powerline 200 Nano. Always check the manual before mixing models, since the speed is typically limited by the slower unit.

In the box and size

The kit contains two Powerline 200 Mini adapters and two 6.5 ft (2 m) Ethernet cables, plus quick install documentation. Each adapter measures 88.7 x 53 x 32 mm and weighs 86.7 g. The mini design is meant to blend in near a desk or TV. NETGEAR gives typical coverage as up to 500 m.

Who it suits

It suits homes where Wi-Fi is weak or inconvenient at a particular spot and running cable isn't practical, such as a games console in a far room. It suits people who want a wired connection without drilling or pulling cable.

What to check before you buy

• Wiring: adapters generally need to be on the same electrical system, and results can vary with older wiring.
• Outlets: plugging directly into a wall outlet rather than a power strip is typically recommended. Check the manual.
• Speed: compare the 200 Mbps figure and 10/100 port with your internet speed.
• Router port: you need a free Ethernet port on the router.
• Device port: the device at the far end needs an RJ-45 Ethernet port.
• Interference: large appliances on the same circuit can affect the link.

The short version

• A pair of Powerline 200 Mini adapters (XAVB1301) that use home wiring for a wired connection.
• Rated at up to 200 Mbps with a 10/100 Ethernet port on each.
• Push-and-Secure button, Pick-a-Plug LED and plug-and-play setup.
• Includes two 2 m Ethernet cables.
• HomePlug AV compliant; compatible with 200 and 500 Mbps adapters.

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