ZyXEL Communications Computer Accessories PLA 4xx User Manual
PLA-4xx Series  
Powerline Ethernet Adapter Series (PLA-400/400 v2/401/401 v2/  
402 v2/470/470 v2)  
User’s Guide  
Version 3.0.5  
12/2007  
Edition 1  
www.zyxel.com  
About This User's Guide  
About This User's Guide  
Intended Audience  
This manual is intended for people who want to configure the PLA-400, PLA-400 v2, PLA-  
401, PLA401 v2, PLA402 v2, PLA-470 and PLA470 v2 using the PLA-4xx Series  
Configuration Utility version 3.0.5(AG). You should have your basic Internet access or home  
network already set up.  
Related Documentation  
• Quick Start Guide  
The Quick Start Guide is designed to help you get up and running right away. It contains  
information on making your hardware connections.  
• Supporting Disk  
Refer to the included CD for support documents.  
• ZyXEL Web Site  
Please refer to www.zyxel.com for additional support documentation and product  
certifications.  
User Guide Feedback  
Help us help you. Send all User Guide-related comments, questions or suggestions for  
improvement to the following address, or use e-mail instead. Thank you!  
The Technical Writing Team,  
ZyXEL Communications Corp.,  
6 Innovation Road II,  
Science-Based Industrial Park,  
Hsinchu, 300, Taiwan.  
E-mail: techwriters@zyxel.com.tw  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
3
   
Document Conventions  
Document Conventions  
Warnings and Notes  
These are how warnings and notes are shown in this User’s Guide.  
1
Warnings tell you about things that could harm you or your device.  
"
Notes tell you other important information (for example, other things you may  
need to configure or helpful tips) or recommendations.  
Syntax Conventions  
• The PLA-400, PLA-400 v2, PLA-401, PLA401 v2, PLA402 v2 and PLA-470 may be  
referred to as the “PLA-4xx”, the “ZyXEL device”, the “device” or the “powerline  
adapter” in this User’s Guide.  
• The PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility version 3.0.5(AG) may be referred to as the  
“configuration utility” or the “utility” in this User’s Guide.  
• Product labels, screen names, field labels and field choices are all in bold font.  
• A key stroke is denoted by square brackets and uppercase text, for example, [ENTER]  
means the “enter” or “return” key on your keyboard.  
• “Enter” means for you to type one or more characters and then press the [ENTER] key.  
“Select” or “choose” means for you to use one of the predefined choices.  
• A right angle bracket ( > ) within a screen name denotes a mouse click. For example,  
Maintenance > Log > Log Setting means you first click Maintenance in the navigation  
panel, then the Log sub menu and finally the Log Setting tab to get to that screen.  
• Units of measurement may denote the “metric” value or the “scientific” value. For  
example, “k” for kilo may denote “1000” or “1024”, “M” for mega may denote “1000000”  
or “1048576” and so on.  
• “e.g.,” is a shorthand for “for instance”, and “i.e.,” means “that is” or “in other words”.  
Icons Used in Figures  
Figures in this User’s Guide may use the following generic icons. The PLA-4xx icons used  
may not be an exact representation of your device.  
PLA-4xx  
Computer  
Notebook computer  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Safety Warnings  
Safety Warnings  
1
For your safety, be sure to read and follow all warning notices and instructions.  
• Do NOT use this product near water, for example, in a wet basement or near a swimming  
pool.  
• Do NOT expose your device to dampness, dust or corrosive liquids.  
• Do NOT store things on the device.  
• Do NOT install, use, or service this device during a thunderstorm. There is a remote risk  
of electric shock from lightning.  
• Connect ONLY suitable accessories to the device.  
• Do NOT open the device or unit. Opening or removing covers can expose you to  
dangerous high voltage points or other risks. ONLY qualified service personnel should  
service or disassemble this device. Please contact your vendor for further  
information.Make sure to connect the cables to the correct ports.  
• Place connecting cables carefully so that no one will step on them or stumble over them.  
• Always disconnect all cables from this device before servicing or disassembling.  
• Use ONLY an appropriate power adapter or cord for your device.  
• Connect the power adapter or cord to the right supply voltage (for example, 110V AC in  
North America or 230V AC in Europe).  
• Do NOT allow anything to rest on the power adapter or cord and do NOT place the  
product where anyone can walk on the power adapter or cord.  
• Do NOT use the device if the power adapter or cord is damaged as it might cause  
electrocution.  
• If the power adapter or cord is damaged, remove it from the power outlet.  
• Do NOT attempt to repair the power adapter or cord. Contact your local vendor to order a  
new one.  
• Do not use the device outside, and make sure all the connections are indoors. There is a  
remote risk of electric shock from lightning.  
• Do NOT obstruct the device ventilation slots, as insufficient airflow may harm your  
device.  
• If you wall mount your device, make sure that no electrical lines, gas or water pipes will  
be damaged.  
PLA-401 v2 models only:  
• This power unit is intended to be correctly orientated in a vertical or floor mount position.  
PLA-402 v2 models only:  
• Make sure that the cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against  
voltage surges.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Safety Warnings  
This product is recyclable. Dispose of it properly.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Table of Contents  
Table of Contents  
About This User's Guide ..........................................................................................................3  
Document Conventions............................................................................................................4  
Safety Warnings........................................................................................................................5  
Table of Contents......................................................................................................................7  
List of Tables...........................................................................................................................11  
List of Figures .........................................................................................................................13  
Part I: Introduction................................................................................. 15  
Chapter 1  
Introducing the PLA-4xx ........................................................................................................17  
1.1 Overview .............................................................................................................................. 17  
1.2 Expand Your Network with the PLA-4xx .............................................................................. 17  
1.3 Coaxial Cable Networks with the PLA402 v2 ...................................................................... 18  
1.4 Ways to Manage the PLA-4xx ............................................................................................. 18  
1.5 Security ................................................................................................................................ 19  
1.5.1 Passwords .................................................................................................................. 19  
1.5.2 Setting Up Security .................................................................................................... 19  
1.6 Multiple Networks ................................................................................................................ 20  
Chapter 2  
Installing the Utility.................................................................................................................21  
2.1 Overview of the Installation Process .................................................................................... 21  
2.2 Installing the Utility ............................................................................................................... 21  
Part II: Managing the PLA-4xx .............................................................. 27  
Chapter 3  
Firmware Tools........................................................................................................................29  
3.1 Firmware Detection Tool ...................................................................................................... 29  
3.1.1 Firmware Detection Issues ......................................................................................... 29  
3.1.2 Firmware Detection Procedure .................................................................................. 30  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Table of Contents  
3.2 Firmware Upgrade Tool ....................................................................................................... 32  
Chapter 4  
The ENCRYPT Button.............................................................................................................35  
4.1 ENCRYPT Button Overview ................................................................................................ 35  
4.2 Set Up a HomePlug AV Network with ENCRYPT ................................................................ 35  
4.3 Setting Up Multiple Networks .............................................................................................. 37  
4.4 ENCRYPT Button Behavior ................................................................................................. 38  
Chapter 5  
The Configuration Utility........................................................................................................41  
5.1 Overview .............................................................................................................................. 41  
5.1.1 Powerline Network Security ....................................................................................... 42  
5.1.2 Device Access Key (DAK) .......................................................................................... 42  
5.2 Starting the Configuration Utility .......................................................................................... 42  
5.3 Configuration Screen .......................................................................................................... 43  
5.4 Firmware Screen ................................................................................................................ 44  
5.5 Network Info Screen ........................................................................................................... 45  
5.6 Advanced Screen  
............................................................................................................ 46  
5.7 About Screen ....................................................................................................................... 49  
Chapter 6  
Powerline Network Setup Tutorial.........................................................................................51  
6.1 Overview .............................................................................................................................. 51  
6.1.1 Important Terms ......................................................................................................... 52  
6.1.2 Accessing Your Powerline Adapter ............................................................................ 52  
6.1.3 Adding a Powerline Adapter ....................................................................................... 53  
6.1.4 Setting Up a New Network with a New Adapter ......................................................... 55  
6.1.5 Splitting a Network into Two Networks ....................................................................... 56  
6.2 Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................... 58  
Chapter 7  
LEDs and Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................61  
7.1 LEDs .................................................................................................................................... 61  
7.1.1 PLA-401/PLA401 v2 ................................................................................................... 61  
7.1.2 PLA-400/400 v2/402 v2 .............................................................................................. 62  
7.1.3 PLA-470/PLA470 v2 ................................................................................................... 64  
7.2 Power and Light Problems .................................................................................................. 66  
7.3 Configuration Utility Problems ............................................................................................. 67  
7.4 Powerline Problems ............................................................................................................. 68  
7.5 ENCRYPT Button Problems ................................................................................................ 68  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
8
Table of Contents  
Part III: Appendices and Index.............................................................. 71  
Appendix A Product Specifications ...................................................................................73  
Appendix B Customer Support .........................................................................................79  
Appendix C Legal Information...........................................................................................85  
Index.........................................................................................................................................89  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Table of Contents  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
10  
List of Tables  
List of Tables  
Table 1 Password Summary .................................................................................................................. 19  
Table 2 Firmware Detection Tool: Result Screen ................................................................................... 31  
Table 3 Time ENCRYPT Button is Pressed and Action ......................................................................... 38  
Table 4 Configuration Screen ................................................................................................................ 43  
Table 5 Network Info Screen ................................................................................................................. 46  
Table 6 Priority Settings ......................................................................................................................... 47  
Table 7 Advanced Screen ...................................................................................................................... 49  
Table 8 About Screen ............................................................................................................................ 49  
Table 9 PLA-401 Lights ......................................................................................................................... 61  
Table 10 PLA-401 v2 Lights ................................................................................................................... 62  
Table 11 PLA-400 Lights ........................................................................................................................ 63  
Table 12 PLA-400 v2/402 v2 Lights ....................................................................................................... 63  
Table 13 PLA-470 Lights ....................................................................................................................... 65  
Table 14 PLA470 v2 Lights .................................................................................................................... 65  
Table 15 Hardware Specifications ......................................................................................................... 73  
Table 16 Firmware Specifications .......................................................................................................... 74  
Table 17 Performance ........................................................................................................................... 75  
Table 18 Standards Supported .............................................................................................................. 75  
Table 19 RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments ......................................................................................... 77  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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List of Tables  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
12  
List of Figures  
List of Figures  
Figure 1 Expand Your Network with the PLA-4xx ................................................................................... 17  
Figure 2 Expand Your Network with the PLA402 v2 over Coaxial Cable Wiring .................................... 18  
Figure 3 .NET Framework Installation Prompt ....................................................................................... 22  
Figure 4 Microsoft’s Agreement .............................................................................................................. 22  
Figure 5 .NET Framework Installation Process ...................................................................................... 23  
Figure 6 Microsoft’s Agreement .............................................................................................................. 23  
Figure 7 InstallShield Wizard Start Screen ............................................................................................. 23  
Figure 8 Customer Information Input ...................................................................................................... 24  
Figure 9 Install Destination Folder .......................................................................................................... 24  
Figure 10 Restart Screen ....................................................................................................................... 25  
Figure 11 Firmware Detection With an Early Firmware Local Device ................................................... 30  
Figure 12 Firmware Detection With a Latest Firmware Local Device ................................................... 30  
Figure 13 Firmware Detection Tool: Start ............................................................................................... 31  
Figure 14 Firmware Detection Tool: Result ........................................................................................... 31  
Figure 15 Firmware Upgrade Tool: Start ................................................................................................. 32  
Figure 16 Firmware Upgrade Tool: Upgrading ...................................................................................... 33  
Figure 17 Firmware Upgrade Tool: Finish ............................................................................................. 33  
Figure 18 ENCRYPT Connection Procedure ......................................................................................... 36  
Figure 19 Adding More Powerline Adapters to Your Network ............................................................... 37  
Figure 20 One Existing Powerline Network ........................................................................................... 37  
Figure 21 Two Separate Powerline Networks ....................................................................................... 38  
Figure 22 Example Network Setup ......................................................................................................... 41  
Figure 23 PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility Icon ............................................................................... 42  
Figure 24 Configuration Screen ............................................................................................................. 43  
Figure 25 Firmware Screen ................................................................................................................... 45  
Figure 26 Network Info Screen .............................................................................................................. 45  
Figure 27 Priority Settings ...................................................................................................................... 48  
Figure 28 Advanced Screen ................................................................................................................... 48  
Figure 29 About Screen .......................................................................................................................... 49  
Figure 30 Plug Your Powerline Adapter into a Power Socket ................................................................. 52  
Figure 31 Connect Your Powerline Adapter to a Computer .................................................................... 52  
Figure 32 Click on the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility Icon ........................................................... 53  
Figure 33 Add a Printer to Your Powerline Network ............................................................................... 53  
Figure 34 Adding a New Adapter ........................................................................................................... 54  
Figure 35 Adding an Adapter to an Existing Network ............................................................................. 54  
Figure 36 Network Name Pop-up ........................................................................................................... 54  
Figure 37 Add New Adapters to Make a Second Network ..................................................................... 55  
Figure 38 Making a New Network with the New Adapter ....................................................................... 56  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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List of Figures  
Figure 39 Local/Remote Adapters on a Powerline Network .................................................................. 56  
Figure 40 Adding an Adapter to Your New Network ............................................................................... 57  
Figure 41 Incorrect DAK or No DAK ....................................................................................................... 57  
Figure 42 Correct DAK .......................................................................................................................... 57  
Figure 43 An Adapter on Your New Network .......................................................................................... 58  
Figure 44 Adapters on a New Powerline Network .................................................................................. 58  
Figure 45 PLA-401 Lights ....................................................................................................................... 61  
Figure 46 PLA-400/400 v2/ 402 v2 Lights .............................................................................................. 63  
Figure 47 PLA-470 and PLA-470 v2 Lights ............................................................................................ 64  
Figure 48 Wall-mounting Example .......................................................................................................... 76  
Figure 49 RJ-45 Connector Pins ............................................................................................................ 77  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
14  
PART I  
Introduction  
Introducing the PLA-4xx (17)  
Installing the Utility (21)  
15  
 
16  
CHAPTER 1  
Introducing the PLA-4xx  
1.1 Overview  
This chapter introduces the main applications and features of the PLA-4xx HomePlug AV  
compliant powerline adapter. See Appendix A on page 73 for detailed product specifications.  
In this User’s Guide the electrical wiring network and coaxial cable network are both referred  
to as “HomePlug AV”. The HomePlug AV standard specifies how network devices  
communicate using standard electrical wiring.  
1.2 Expand Your Network with the PLA-4xx  
The PLA-4xx plugs into an ordinary power outlet to easily extend a cable or DSL broadband  
connection or existing Ethernet (LAN) network to any other electrical outlet in any room of a  
house, all without the need for any new cabling. Devices can securely communicate with each  
other at high data transfer rates. (See Appendix A on page 73 for speeds currently supported  
by the PLA-4xx.) The PLA-4xx uses 128-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) to ensure  
safe transfer of information.  
Figure 1 Expand Your Network with the PLA-4xx  
Connect your PLA-4xx to an Internet gateway such as a modem and plug it into an ordinary  
power outlet in your home. Plug a second PLA-4xx into another power outlet and connect a  
computer to the PLA-4xx for Internet access. Your network can be further expanded by  
plugging additional PLA-4xxs into other outlets in your home and connecting other computers  
or network devices (for example, a printer) to them.  
Refer to your Quick Start Guide for hardware connection information. Refer to Appendix A on  
page 73 for wall mounting instructions.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA-4xx  
1.3 Coaxial Cable Networks with the PLA402 v2  
The PLA402 v2 allows you to be more flexible in expanding your network by adding the  
coaxial cable capability.  
Figure 2 Expand Your Network with the PLA402 v2 over Coaxial Cable Wiring  
As well as being able to connect your PLA402 v2 to a power outlet, you also have the option  
of connecting to a coaxial cable outlet. Connect other powerline adapters in your powerline  
network to coaxial cable outlets on the same line. Then set up your network with additional  
devices such as a computer or printer the same way you would set up a powerline network on  
an electrical circuit.  
If you are setting up a coaxial connection in a room with only one coaxial outlet you can use a  
coaxial splitter to connect more than one device. For example, if you want to connect a TV and  
a PLA402 v2 to a single outlet you could use a coaxial splitter.  
1.4 Ways to Manage the PLA-4xx  
Use the ENCRYPT button to add powerline devices to your powerline network if they have  
this button. See Chapter 4 on page 35 for instructions on using the ENCRYPT feature.  
Use the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility (or utility, for short) to manage the PLA-4xx.  
See Section 2.2 on page 21 for instructions on installing the utility.  
Use the firmware detection and firmware upgrade tools to upgrade to the latest firmware.  
Because the latest PLA-4xxs are only compatible with other powerline devices with the latest  
HomePlug AV firmware, as well as the latest version Utility, these tools are available to help  
you upgrade. You can download both of these tools from the ZyXEL website  
(www.zyxel.com.tw). See Chapter 3 on page 29 for information in using these tools.  
"
This User’s Guide describes the latest version utility. This utility is only  
compatible with a PLA-4xx which has the latest firmware installed. If you don’t  
already have them, download the latest firmware and utility from the ZyXEL  
website.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
18  
         
Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA-4xx  
1.5 Security  
Since your powerline network may extend outside your premises, it is important to set up  
security on your PLA-4xx.  
1.5.1 Passwords  
You use two types of passwords in the HomePlug AV powerline network. The following table  
describes the differences between the passwords.  
Table 1 Password Summary  
PASSWORD  
DESCRIPTION  
Network Name  
All powerline adapters that follow the HomePlug AV standard are  
shipped with the same powerline network name “HomePlugAV”.  
Change the network name via the PLA-4xx Series Configuration  
Utility to create a private network. See Section 5.3 on page 43.  
DAK (Data Access In order to manage the powerline adapters on your powerline  
Key) Password  
network you must enter the adapters’ DAK password in the PLA-4xx  
Series Configuration Utility. This password is printed on the  
powerline adapter itself.  
You don’t need to add the password for the powerline adapter  
directly connected to the computer running the configuration utility  
(local powerline adapter), you only have to add the remote powerline  
adapters’ passwords (those on your circuit, but not directly  
connected to your computer).  
1.5.2 Setting Up Security  
The ENCRYPT feature automatically sets up security on your powerline network. Use this  
feature if your powerline devices have the ENCRYPT button.  
If your devices do not have the ENCRYPT button, use the PLA-4xx Series Configuration  
Utility to set up security on the PLA-4xx. Although the PLA-4xx is a “plug-and-play”  
network expanding solution there are several reasons for enabling security on the powerline  
network in your home.  
1 It’s easy and only requires you to change a network name.  
2 It’s a good idea to ensure privacy of your communication. When you use the PLA-4xx  
and other powerline adapters, the electrical wiring in your home becomes an extension  
of your Ethernet network. Your network traffic flows freely within the electrical circuit  
of your home and is bounded in most cases by a power meter.  
Without security (encryption) your information is accessible to anyone using a powerline  
adapter on the same electrical circuit. In some cases, a circuit can be shared by more than  
one household.  
To prevent compromising your network security, you can create a private network. A  
private network uses a secret password (Network Name) to make sure that only  
permitted powerline adapters can communicate in your network. See Section 5.3 on page  
43 for information on setting up a private network.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
19  
             
Chapter 1 Introducing the PLA-4xx  
"
Buildings and even streets may share a coaxial cable connection. If your  
powerline network uses a coaxial cable, the network will probably extend  
outside your premises. In this case make your network more secure with a  
private network name.  
3 You may need to change the Network Name to create multiple powerline networks. See  
the next section for more information on how to set up a multiple network.  
1.6 Multiple Networks  
Multiple powerline networks can coexist on a single powerline circuit. You might want to  
implement multiple powerline networks in a small office environment where you have two  
separate Ethernet networks.  
1 Connect one powerline adapter to a router or switch on the first Ethernet network and  
assign a Network Name (for example “Password1”) to this powerline adapter. Add  
additional powerline adapters to your network by plugging them into your powerline  
outlets and assigning them “Password1”. This completes the configuration of your first  
powerline network.  
2 Connect another powerline adapter to a router or switch on the second Ethernet network  
and assign a different Network Name (for example “Password2”) to this powerline  
adapter. Again, add additional powerline adapters and assign them “Password2”.  
You now have two private networks on your powerline circuit. Information is not shared  
between the two networks as only powerline adapters with the same Network Name can  
communicate with each other.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
20  
     
CHAPTER 2  
Installing the Utility  
This chapter guides you through the installation of the configuration utility for your PLA-4xx.  
2.1 Overview of the Installation Process  
The installation of the configuration utility does the following:  
1 Checks for and installs Microsoft’s .NET Framework version 1.1 software on your  
computer. This software is necessary for the installation of the PLA-4xx Series  
Configuration Utility. If you already have .NET Framework version 1.1 installed on  
your computer this step will be skipped.  
2 Installs ZyXEL’s PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility. This utility allows you to  
manage the network name (See Section 5.3 on page 43 for more information) or view the  
devices recognized on your powerline network.  
"
"
At the time of writing the utility is only compatible on Microsoft Windows XP  
and Microsoft Windows Vista (32-bit version) operating systems.  
This User’s Guide describes the latest version utility. This utility is only  
compatible with a PLA-4xx which has the latest firmware installed. If you don’t  
already have them, download the latest firmware and utility from the ZyXEL  
website.  
2.2 Installing the Utility  
Follow the steps below to install .NET Framework version 1.1 and the PLA-4xx Series  
Configuration Utility on your computer.  
1 Insert the included CD-ROM into your computer’s CD-ROM drive. The Setup utility  
runs automatically. Alternatively this can also be done manually by double clicking the  
setup.exe file on the CD. A prompt appears asking you to install the .NET Framework  
version 1.1. Click Yes to continue with the installation.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
21  
             
Chapter 2 Installing the Utility  
Figure 3 .NET Framework Installation Prompt  
2 Review Microsoft’s License Agreement, select I agree and click Install to proceed.  
Figure 4 Microsoft’s Agreement  
3 The next screen allows you to see the progress of the installation.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 2 Installing the Utility  
Figure 5 .NET Framework Installation Process  
4 Click OK to complete the installation process.  
Figure 6 Microsoft’s Agreement  
5 The Setup utility runs automatically. Click Yes or Next to continue through the initial  
screen. Click Cancel only if you want to abort the installation.  
Figure 7 InstallShield Wizard Start Screen  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 2 Installing the Utility  
6 Fill in the User Name and Company Name fields (optional). If you want the utility to  
be only available to the currently logged in user, select Only for me(...). Otherwise, click  
Next to continue and allow all users to use the configuration utility.  
Figure 8 Customer Information Input  
7 Click Next to install the utility to the default folder, or click Change to specify a  
different location on your computer.  
Figure 9 Install Destination Folder  
8 When the installation is finished, a screen appears to confirm the InstallShield Wizard  
has successfully installed the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to your computer.  
Click Finish to exit the wizard.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 2 Installing the Utility  
Figure 10 Restart Screen  
9 The following pop-up appears. Click Yes to restart your computer, or click No to restart  
your computer later.  
"
If you select “No, I will restart my computer later”, you will not be able to launch  
the utility until after a restart of your computer.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
25  
 
Chapter 2 Installing the Utility  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
26  
PART II  
Managing the PLA-  
4xx  
Firmware Tools (29)  
The ENCRYPT Button (35)  
The Configuration Utility (41)  
Powerline Network Setup Tutorial (51)  
LEDs and Troubleshooting (61)  
27  
 
28  
CHAPTER 3  
Firmware Tools  
Use the Firmware Detection Tool and Firmware Upgrade Tool to ensure you have the latest  
firmware (version 3.0.5 or later) on your PLA-4xx(s).  
You need to upgrade all your PLA-4xxs to the latest firmware to ensure they can connect with  
each other and they are compatible with the latest version Utility.  
Use the Firmware Detection Tool to detect the firmware version of powerline devices on  
your network. If your firmware is early version (earlier than 3.0.5), then upgrade your  
firmware using the Firmware Upgrade Tool.  
"
Run the tools or the Utility one at a time, as only one of these applications can  
access the PLA-4xx connected to your computer at any time.  
3.1 Firmware Detection Tool  
Use the Firmware Detection Tool to detect the firmware on devices on your powerline  
network.  
3.1.1 Firmware Detection Issues  
"
The powerline device directly connected to your computer (the local device) is  
only compatible with other powerline devices which have the same firmware.  
So if your local device is running the latest firmware, the detection tool will not  
be able to detect devices with older firmware. Use a local device with early  
version firmware to allow the detection tool to detect any powerline devices  
with early version firmware.  
This diagram shows the Firmware Detection Tool detecting the firmware on early firmware  
devices only, as the local device has early firmware.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
29  
         
Chapter 3 Firmware Tools  
Figure 11 Firmware Detection With an Early Firmware Local Device  
3.0.5  
3.0.5  
1.4.5  
1.4.5  
1.4.5  
3.0.5  
This diagram shows the Firmware Detection Tool detecting the firmware on latest firmware  
devices only, as the local device has the latest firmware.  
Figure 12 Firmware Detection With a Latest Firmware Local Device  
3.0.5  
1.4.5  
3.0.5  
1.4.5  
1.4.5  
3.1.2 Firmware Detection Procedure  
3.0.5  
Follow these instructions to run the Firmware Detection Tool.  
1 Close the Utility and Firmware Upgrade Tool if either of them are open.  
2 Double click on the Firmware Detection Tool to run the file.  
3 Click Next to begin the firmware detection process.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
30  
     
Chapter 3 Firmware Tools  
Figure 13 Firmware Detection Tool: Start  
The Tool shows the firmware version(s) of devices it has detected on your powerline network.  
Figure 14 Firmware Detection Tool: Result  
The following table describes the labels in this screen.  
Table 2 Firmware Detection Tool: Result Screen  
LABEL  
DESCRIPTION  
Site  
This field displays  
•
Local, if it is identifying the powerline adapter directly connected to the computer  
running the configuration utility.  
•
Remote, if it is a powerline adapter in your powerline network but not directly  
connected to the computer running the configuration utility.  
MAC Address This shows the MAC address of the powerline adapter. You can find the MAC address  
of your PLA-4xx displayed on a sticker on the bottom of your device.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
31  
       
Chapter 3 Firmware Tools  
Table 2 Firmware Detection Tool: Result Screen (continued)  
LABEL  
DESCRIPTION  
Firmware  
Version  
This is the firmware version of your device.  
In the example firmware version given in the screen, 1-4-1454, the firmware version is  
shown by the numbers 145, meaning this is firmware version 1.4.5.  
If your device’s firmware is earlier than 3.0.5, please use the Firmware Upgrade Tool  
to upgrade your firmware.  
Company  
You can upgrade your device if this field displays ZyXEL. If Other displays then you  
cannot use the Firmware Upgrade Tool.  
3.2 Firmware Upgrade Tool  
Use the firmware upgrade tool to upgrade firmware earlier than version 3.0.5 to the latest  
version firmware on the powerline device directly connected to your computer. This is  
necessary as devices with ZyXEL’s early version firmware are not compatible with the latest  
Utility or with devices running ZyXEL’s latest version firmware.  
"
The firmware is included in the Tool. You do not need to download the firmware  
separately.  
1 Connect the powerline device to be upgraded to your computer.  
2 Close the Utility and Firmware Detection Tool if either of them are open.  
3 Double click on the Firmware Upgrade Tool to run the file.  
4 Click Next to begin the firmware upgrade process.  
Figure 15 Firmware Upgrade Tool: Start  
5 Wait several minutes while the firmware is upgraded.  
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Chapter 3 Firmware Tools  
Figure 16 Firmware Upgrade Tool: Upgrading  
6 If your firmware is successfully upgraded, the following screen appears. Click Finish to  
close the Tool.  
Figure 17 Firmware Upgrade Tool: Finish  
7 To check your firmware is successfully upgraded, run the Firmware Detection Utility  
again and check your firmware version.  
8 Repeat this upgrade process for each powerline device you need to upgrade.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 3 Firmware Tools  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
34  
CHAPTER 4  
The ENCRYPT Button  
Use the ENCRYPT button to automatically set up a secure powerline connection between  
your powerline devices.  
4.1 ENCRYPT Button Overview  
The ENCRYPT button allows you to set up a secure powerline connection with other  
HomePlug AV compliant powerline devices which also support the ENCRYPT feature. No  
other powerline setting changes are required to connect.  
You can use the ENCRYPT button to:  
• set up a new powerline network  
• separate an existing powerline network into multiple networks  
4.2 Set Up a HomePlug AV Network with ENCRYPT  
You can connect a number of devices on a powerline network, but you can use the ENCRYPT  
button on only two devices at a time. The PLA-4xx and PLA-400 v2 are shown below as  
examples.  
1 Place a powerline device close to another powerline device so you have time to set up  
each one. After you set up the first powerline device, you have 120 seconds to set up the  
second powerline device.  
2 You can disconnect them from your computer or modem (or other networking  
equipment) if you need to move them close to each other, but the powerline devices  
need to be plugged into power outlets.  
3 Press the ENCRYPT button at the rear of your powerline device for more than 10  
seconds until the power ( ) light flashes. This resets the network name to a random  
value and removes your device from any network it may belong to.  
4 Press the ENCRYPT button at the rear of your powerline device for 1~2 seconds. The  
power ( ) light will blink as the powerline device tries to set up a connection.  
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Chapter 4 The ENCRYPT Button  
Figure 18 ENCRYPT Connection Procedure  
press 2 seconds  
press 2 seconds  
within 2  
minutes  
5 Repeat step 4 in this section for the other powerline device you wish to connect. This  
must be done within 120 seconds of pressing the ENCRYPT button on the PLA-4xx.  
6 Check the lights on the two powerline devices. The power ( ) and HomePlug (  
)
lights should be blinking while the devices are connecting. Several times all lights blink  
simultaneously and the HomePlug ( ) light also shows red. Wait for about one minute  
while your powerline devices connect.  
V
V
If the power ( ) light does not blink when you press ENCRYPT, you have  
probably pressed the ENCRYPT button for too long. Try again, pressing the  
ENCRYPT button for 1~ 2 seconds.  
If the HomePlug ( ) lights on both powerline devices do not light up, the  
powerline devices are not connected. Repeat steps 4 and 5 in this section. If  
that doesn’t work, see the Troubleshooting in Section 7.5 on page 68 for  
suggestions.  
7 To add more powerline devices to your network, press the ENCRYPT button on device  
C (shown below) for more than 10 seconds until the power ( ) light flashes.  
8 Then repeat steps 4 and 5 in this section using any powerline device (A or B) you have  
connected using ENCRYPT and the powerline device you want to connect (C). You  
must use the ENCRYPT button on both devices.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 4 The ENCRYPT Button  
Figure 19 Adding More Powerline Adapters to Your Network  
A
B
A OR B  
C
9 If you disconnected your computer or modem (or any other networking product  
connected to your powerline device) in step 1 of this section, you can now reconnect  
them.  
This sets up your powerline network between your powerline devices.  
4.3 Setting Up Multiple Networks  
You can use the ENCRYPT button to set up multiple powerline networks using your existing  
powerline network.  
For example, you have already set up a powerline network in your home (A) which accesses a  
printer (B). Now you want a separate powerline network connection from your laptop to your  
printer (C).  
Figure 20 One Existing Powerline Network  
A
C
B
1 Click the ENCRYPT button on (A) for more than 10 seconds until the power ( ) light  
flashes. This disconnects (A) from (B).  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 4 The ENCRYPT Button  
2 Click the ENCRYPT button on (A) and (C) for 1~2 seconds and within two minutes of  
each other.  
3 Wait for about one minute while (A) and (C) connect.  
4 Check the LEDs on both (A) and (C). When the power ( ) and HomePlug ( ) lights  
stop blinking and the power ( ) light shines steadily, the devices are connected.  
Figure 21 Two Separate Powerline Networks  
B
A
C
Congratulations. You now have two separate powerline networks as shown above.  
V
If the HomePlug ( ) lights on both powerline devices do not light up, the  
powerline devices are not connected. Repeat the connection process, making  
certain you press the ENCRYPT buttons for the correct time and within two  
minutes of each other. If that does not work see Section 7.5 on page 68 for  
suggestions.  
4.4 ENCRYPT Button Behavior  
The following table summarizes the actions that occur when the ENCRYPT button is pressed  
for specific lengths of time.  
Table 3 Time ENCRYPT Button is Pressed and Action  
HOMEPLUG LIGHT  
BEHAVIOR  
TIME  
ACTION  
POWER LIGHT BEHAVIOR  
less than 3 The device joins a network. It  
The power ( ) light blinks until The HomePlug (  
) light turns  
seconds  
shares the same network name the device is connected. This  
as other devices on the network. may take a minute.  
on if your device is connected to  
another powerline device or a  
powerline network.  
more than  
The device leaves any network The power ( ) light blinks  
The HomePlug (  
) light blinks  
10 seconds it is associated with and its  
network name assumes a  
random value.  
several times and then shines  
steadily.  
red one time and then turns off  
when it disconnects from the  
powerline network.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 4 The ENCRYPT Button  
See Troubleshooting in Chapter 7 on page 68 for suggestions on problems with the  
ENCRYPT button and the lights.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
39  
Chapter 4 The ENCRYPT Button  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
40  
CHAPTER 5  
The Configuration Utility  
This chapter shows you how to use the Configuration Utility (or Utility) to secure, manage and  
set up Quality of Service (QoS) on your powerline network.  
5.1 Overview  
The PLA-4xx is designed as a plug-and-play network expanding solution. This means that  
once you complete your hardware connections, the PLA-4xxs in your network (without  
additional configuration) are able to communicate with each other by sending and receiving  
information over your home’s electrical wiring (A). For the PLA402 v2 models you have the  
option to use coaxial cables (B) to expand your network.  
Figure 22 Example Network Setup  
B
A
All HomePlug AV compliant powerline adapters within range can join your network. The  
range varies depending on the quality of your home’s wiring. In the case of coaxial cable this  
can extend beyond the boundary of your home (for example your neighbor’s house or  
apartment).  
"
See Section 5.1.1 on page 42 for more information on enhancing your powerline  
network security.  
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Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
5.1.1 Powerline Network Security  
When the PLA-4xxs communicate with each other, they use encryption to protect the  
information that is sent in the powerline network. Encryption is like a secret code. If you do  
not know the secret code, you cannot understand the message. The HomePlug AV standard  
uses 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) to safely transmit data between powerline  
adapters.  
For the powerline adapters to communicate with each other they all need to use the same  
network name. This network name allows the powerline adapters to understand the encrypted  
information sent in the powerline network.  
By default the PLA-4xxs are all configured with the network name HomePlugAV, this allows  
you to simply plug the devices in and not worry about setting up security. If you want to  
enhance the security on your powerline network, you can change the network name on the  
powerline adapters you want to allow to communicate in your powerline network.  
5.1.2 Device Access Key (DAK)  
In order to manage the powerline adapters on your powerline network you must enter the  
adapters’ password in the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility. This password is called the  
DAK (Device Access Key) password. This password is printed on the powerline adapter itself.  
You don’t need to enter the DAK password for the powerline adapter directly connected to the  
computer running the utility (local powerline adapter), you only have to add the remote  
powerline adapters’ passwords (those in your powerline network, but not directly connected to  
your computer).  
5.2 Starting the Configuration Utility  
To launch the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility simply double click on the  
configuration icon on your desktop.  
Figure 23 PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility Icon  
Alternatively, start the utility by browsing to it from the start menu. Click Start > Programs >  
ZyXEL PLA-4xx Series Configuration > PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility.  
"
Close the Firmware Upgrade Tool and Firmware Detection Tool if either of them  
are open for the Utility to work properly.  
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Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
5.3 Configuration Screen  
Use the Configuration screen to see which devices are recognized by your powerline  
network, to configure your PLA-4xx and to set up a secure powerline network by changing the  
powerline network name. This screen opens up when you launch the utility.  
"
Use the  
icon to view online help information in each screen of the utility.  
Figure 24 Configuration Screen  
The following table describes the labels in this screen.  
Table 4 Configuration Screen  
LABEL  
DESCRIPTION  
Network  
Topology  
Use this to select which powerline network information is displayed. Different  
powerline networks are identified by the Ethernet interface (network card) connected  
directly to the PLA-4xx. Typically there is only one connection, however, if your  
computer has two network cards and both are connected to a powerline device then  
you have two powerline networks.  
The fields described below are used to identify the powerline adapters recognized on the powerline  
network. The configuration utility automatically updates this information every 10 seconds. Click Scan  
to refresh the information in these fields (immediately).  
Note: Only devices which share the same network name are displayed in this  
table.  
Site  
This field displays  
•
Local, if it is identifying the powerline adapter directly connected to the computer  
running the configuration utility.  
•
Remote, if it is a powerline adapter in your powerline network but not directly  
connected to the computer running the configuration utility.  
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Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
Table 4 Configuration Screen (continued)  
LABEL DESCRIPTION  
MAC Address This is a read-only field which shows the MAC address of the powerline adapter you  
are configuring. You can find the MAC address of your PLA-4xx displayed on a sticker  
on the bottom of your device.  
DAK Password DAK (Device Access Key) password is used to verify that you are authorized to  
perform changes on a remote device. You can find the DAK password printed on a  
sticker on the bottom of your PLA-4xx.  
Select the remote powerline adapter you want to manage by clicking the MAC  
address which corresponds to it in the MAC Address column. Enter the DAK  
Password value and click Save.  
Note: You must enter the DAK Password value exactly as it is  
printed on the label (all caps and with dashes “-”).  
Network Name The default network name (sometimes called a network password or network  
membership key (NMK)) of the PLA-4xx is “HomePlugAV”. HomePlug compatible  
devices use the same network name to recognize and communicate with each other  
over the powerline network. If you change the network name of one device on the  
network, it will no longer be recognized as part of that network.  
If you change the network name, make sure you change the network name for all of  
the powerline adapters that you want to be part of your powerline network.  
The network name can be from 8 to 64 characters in length, using “A”~”Z”, “a”~”z”,  
“0”~”9”; spaces are not allowed.  
Save  
Click this to apply your changes. The new Network Name is applied to the selected  
powerline adapter.  
Note: You must enter the correct DAK password for the selected  
powerline adapter before you can make changes to it.  
5.4 Firmware Screen  
"
"
To upgrade to the latest firmware, use the firmware upgrade tool available from  
the ZyXEL website (www.zyxel.com), or from the CD included with your PLA-  
4xx. Make sure you also upgrade the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility if you  
do so, as older version utilities are not compatible with PLA-4xxs using the  
latest firmware.  
Be sure to upload the correct model firmware as uploading the wrong model  
firmware may damage your device.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
Figure 25 Firmware Screen  
5.5 Network Info Screen  
Use the Network Info screen to see the rates at which a specific PLA-4xx is communicating  
with other powerline adapters on your powerline network.  
Figure 26 Network Info Screen  
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45  
       
Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
The following table describes the labels in this screen.  
Table 5 Network Info Screen  
LABEL  
DESCRIPTION  
Adapter  
This field identifies which powerline network information is displayed. Different  
powerline networks are identified by the Ethernet interface (network card) connected  
directly to the PLA-4xx. Typically there is only one connection, however, if your  
computer has two network cards and both are connected to a PLA-4xx, then you have  
two powerline networks.  
Central  
Coordinator  
MAC  
The Central Coordinator of the powerline network is the powerline adapter which  
keeps track of which devices are part of the network as well as synchronizes  
communication within the powerline network. If the Central Coordinator is removed  
from the powerline network then another powerline adapter takes its place. This field  
displays the MAC address of the PLA-4xx which is the Central Coordinator of the  
powerline network. The powerline adapters in your powerline network automatically  
select the Central Coordinator.  
The information provided in the following table reflects transmission rate information about the  
powerline adapters which communicate in your powerline network.  
The powerline adapters listed in this table are all the powerline adapters in your powerline network  
except the powerline adapter selected in the Configuration page of the configuration utility. In other  
words, if the Local powerline adapter is selected in the Configuration screen, then this table will  
display the rates of transmission from the powerline adapter connected to the computer running the  
configuration utility to all the Remote powerline adapters.  
Site  
This field displays:  
•
Local, if it is the PLA-4xx directly connected to the computer running the  
configuration utility.  
•
Remote, if it is a PLA-4xx in your powerline network but not directly connected to  
the computer running the configuration utility.  
MAC Address This field displays the MAC address of your powerline adapter. The MAC address of  
your powerline adapter can be found by looking at the label on your device. It consists  
of six pairs of hexadecimal characters (hexadecimal characters are “0-9” and “a-f”). In  
the case of the PLA-4xx, this label is on the bottom of the device.  
Transmit Rate This field displays how fast information is sent from the powerline adapter selected in  
(Mbps)  
the Configuration screen to this powerline adapter. The rate is given in the following  
format: “application data transmission rate / raw data transmission rate”. Application  
data reflects more accurately how fast devices are transmitting application relevant  
traffic (for example Internet Protocol (IP) traffic). Raw data refers to the whole payload  
of the packets transmitted across the powerline network.  
Receive Rate  
(Mbps)  
This field displays how fast information is received from the powerline adapter  
selected in the Configuration screen to this powerline adapter. The rate is given in  
the following format: “application data transmission rate / raw data transmission rate”.  
Application data reflects more accurately how fast devices are transmitting application  
relevant traffic (for example Internet Protocol (IP) traffic). Raw data refers to the whole  
payload of the packets transmitted across the powerline network.  
5.6 Advanced Screen  
"
This feature is only available with the latest version utility. Go to the ZyXEL  
website to download the latest utility and firmware for your ZyXEL HomePlug  
AV adapter.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
46  
     
Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
You can configure the powerline adapters on your network to give priority to network traffic  
depending on its importance. When you set the priority of a powerline adapter, you set how  
quickly messages FROM your powerline adapter are sent in your powerline network.  
Transmissions TO your powerline adapter do not receive any priority.  
For example, if you have a file server on your home network to deliver music and movie files  
to computers in your home, you should set the priority of the powerline adapter connected to  
this server to Medium. If video traffic is delivered too slowly, quality problems may occur.  
On the other hand, a powerline adapter attached to a printer should have a low priority setting  
since the slow delivery of messages will not affect the print job.  
Similarly, if you want to prioritize any downloads from the Internet, set the priority on the  
powerline adapter attached to your Internet gateway to High.  
Allocate priority settings based on application type as follows.  
Table 6 Priority Settings  
PRIORITY LEVEL  
High  
APPLICATION  
Voice Application  
Medium  
Video and Audio  
Applications  
Normal  
Low  
Data Applications  
Data Applications  
The figure below shows an example powerline home network connected to the Internet.  
• Device A is a printer and does not handle traffic with high importance, so the powerline  
adapter connected to it can be set to low priority.  
• Device B is a file server, delivering audio or movie files to other users on the network. The  
powerline adapter attached to it should have a medium setting.  
• Device C, a home computer which connects to the Internet, can receive a normal priority  
setting as it usually sends simple requests for data. For example, when you surf the  
Internet, your computer sends requests to open web pages.  
• Device D is a modem attached to the Internet. It should receive a high priority setting if  
you want faster downloading through your network.  
• Although device E receives audio or movie files, it does not send a lot of traffic, so the  
powerline adaptor attached to it can be set to a low priority.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
Figure 27 Priority Settings  
Internet  
C
B
D
E
A
Use this screen to configure priority settings for traffic from the powerline adapters on your  
network.  
Figure 28 Advanced Screen  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
The following table describes the labels in this screen.  
Table 7 Advanced Screen  
LABEL  
DESCRIPTION  
Adapter  
This field identifies which powerline network information is displayed. Different  
powerline networks are identified by the Ethernet interface (network card) on your  
computer which is connected directly to a powerline adapter. Typically there is only  
one connection. However, if your computer has two network cards and both are  
connected to a powerline adapter, then you have two powerline networks.  
Site  
This field displays:  
•
Local, if it is the PLA-4xx directly connected to the computer running the  
configuration utility.  
•
Remote, if it is a powerline adapter in your powerline network but not directly  
connected to the computer running the configuration utility.  
MAC Address This is a read-only field which shows the MAC address of the powerline adapter you  
are configuring. You can find the MAC address of your PLA-4xx displayed on a sticker  
on the bottom of your device.  
Priority  
Select a priority setting from the drop-down box for traffic FROM your selected device.  
The options, in order of importance, are High, Medium, Normal and Low.  
Save  
Click this to apply your changes. The new Priority setting is applied to the selected  
powerline adapter.  
5.7 About Screen  
Use the About screen to view information regarding the configuration utility and firmware  
version of the PLA-4xx you are connected to. Click the  
icon in the top right corner of the  
utility to view the About screen.  
Figure 29 About Screen  
Upgrade to  
latest  
version  
firmware  
and utility.  
The following table describes the labels in this screen.  
Table 8 About Screen  
LABEL  
DESCRIPTION  
Utility version:  
This field displays the software version of the configuration utility.  
Firmware  
version  
This field displays the firmware version of the device you selected in the Device  
Selection field of the Configuration screen.  
In the example firmware version given in the screen, 3-0-3052, the firmware version  
is shown by the numbers 305, meaning this is firmware version 3.0.5.  
If your device’s firmware is earlier than 3.0.5, please use the Firmware Upgrade  
Tool to upgrade your firmware.  
Released  
Close  
This field displays the date when the firmware was released.  
Click the  
button in upper right corner to close the About window.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 5 The Configuration Utility  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
50  
CHAPTER 6  
Powerline Network Setup  
Tutorial  
Use this tutorial to expand your existing powerline network.  
6.1 Overview  
After setting up your first home powerline network (instructions for that are in the Quick Start  
Guide for your ZyXEL powerline adapter) you may want to extend the network or create a  
new one by adding additional powerline adapters. This tutorial shows you the following.  
• How to start up your new powerline adapter. You need to do this before you can begin the  
next sections.  
• How to make your existing powerline network bigger by adding new powerline adapters.  
• How to make a new network separate from your existing network with new powerline  
adapters.  
• How to make a new, separate powerline network with the powerline adapters you have.  
The tutorial uses the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to set up your powerline adapter.  
If you haven’t already installed the utility, see Chapter 2 on page 21 for instructions. If you do  
not have the CD with the utility, the utility software is also available for download at  
www.zyxel.com. Navigate to the powerline products section of the ZyXEL website to find this  
software. Follow the instructions provided by the software to install it on your computer.  
See the product specifications in the User’s Guide for a list of hardware and software  
compatible with the utility.  
"
The PLA-4xx in this tutorial is an example only. Your powerline adapter may be  
different.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
6.1.1 Important Terms  
Network Name  
The network name allows a powerline adapter to connect with other  
powerline adapters that have the same network name. It provides  
security for your powerline network. The network name uses English  
letters or numbers, from 8 to 64 characters long, with no spaces  
allowed.  
DAK Password  
DAK = Device Access Key.  
The DAK Password lets you access the powerline adapter. You can  
find the DAK Password on a label on your powerline device.  
6.1.2 Accessing Your Powerline Adapter  
1 Attach the power cord that came in the package to your powerline adapter.  
2 Plug the power cord of the powerline adapter you want to add to your network into a  
power socket and, if needed, switch the power socket on.  
Figure 30 Plug Your Powerline Adapter into a Power Socket  
1
2
3 Connect the powerline adapter to your computer.  
4 Use a LAN or Ethernet cable (shown below) to connect the LAN or Ethernet port on  
your adapter to the same kind of port on your computer.  
Figure 31 Connect Your Powerline Adapter to a Computer  
4
3
5 Open the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility on your computer. Go to Start > (All)  
Programs > ZyXEL PLA-4xx Series Configuration > PLA-4xx Series  
Configuration Utility, or click on the icon on your desktop shown below.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
Figure 32 Click on the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility Icon  
6 You are now ready to extend your powerline network or set up a second network.  
• See Section 6.1.3 on page 53 to add a new powerline adapter to your network.  
• See Section 6.1.4 on page 55 to set up a second network with your new adapters.  
• See Section 6.1.5 on page 56 to set up a second network with your existing adapters.  
6.1.3 Adding a Powerline Adapter  
This section shows you how to add a new powerline adapter to expand your existing network.  
The figure below shows the family computer with Internet access on a powerline network.  
Expand the network by adding a new powerline adapter connected to a printer.  
Figure 33 Add a Printer to Your Powerline Network  
Internet  
"
You do not need to know the network name of the new adapter to add it to your  
network.  
1 Connect your computer to the powerline adapter you want to add to your network and  
open the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility (see Section 6.1.2 on page 52).  
2 The utility should open to the configuration tab. On this screen in the Site column your  
new powerline adapter should appear as Local (A). Check the Local adapter’s MAC  
address (B). It should match the MAC address listed on the label on the back of your  
powerline adapter.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
53  
     
Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
Figure 34 Adding a New Adapter  
B
A
3 Select your adapter by selecting Local and type the network name for your existing  
network in the Network Name field (C).  
Figure 35 Adding an Adapter to an Existing Network  
C
4 Click Save and click OK on the pop-up.  
Figure 36 Network Name Pop-up  
5 Your new adapter will now have the same Network Name as your existing network and  
so has now joined your existing network.  
6 Connect the adapter to the device you want to add to the network, for example, your  
Internet refrigerator in the kitchen.  
7 Plug the adapter’s power cord into a power outlet and, if required, switch the power  
outlet on.  
8 Repeat this procedure for all additional powerline adapters that you want to add to your  
existing or new powerline network.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
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Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
6.1.4 Setting Up a New Network with a New Adapter  
This section shows you how to use your new powerline adapters to set up a new powerline  
network separate to your existing network.  
The figure below shows two powerline networks in a house. The first network (1) shows the  
home computer connected to a printer and access to the Internet. The second network (2) has  
no Internet access but with a media adapter such as the ZyXEL DMA-1100P you can use your  
TV to watch movies and play games which are stored on a computer.  
Figure 37 Add New Adapters to Make a Second Network  
Internet  
1
2
1 Connect your new powerline adapter and open the configuration utility as shown in  
Section 6.1.4 on page 55. The screen shown below appears.  
2 Type a Network Name that is different from the Network Name for your existing  
network. Make sure you use the same new Network Name for all new adapters you  
want to add to your new network.  
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Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
Figure 38 Making a New Network with the New Adapter  
3 After you have set up a new network, you are ready to connect each powerline adapter  
on your new network to devices, for example, a computer or a games console.  
6.1.5 Splitting a Network into Two Networks  
This section shows you how to split your existing network into two networks. This is useful if  
you want to set up a second powerline network in your home, for example, in your study  
connecting a laptop and printer. See Figure 37 on page 55 for an example.  
To set up your existing powerline network you had to set each powerline adapter with the  
same network name. To move some of these adapters to a new network, you need to give them  
a new network name.  
1 Connect a powerline adapter to your computer and open the PLA-4xx Series  
Configuration Utility (see Section 6.1.2 on page 52).  
2 The utility should open to the configuration tab as shown below. A list of powerline  
adapters on your network displays. These adapters all have the same network name as  
the adapter you are connected to. The adapter you are connected to will appear as Local  
in this table. All others are listed as Remote.  
Figure 39 Local/Remote Adapters on a Powerline Network  
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Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
3 To set up a new powerline network, type the DAK Password and change the Network  
Name on all powerline adapters you wish to add to your network.  
• Look for the DAK Password on a label on your powerline adapter. The DAK  
Password lets you access the adapter.  
• Select the Remote adapter you want to add (A) and type the DAK Password in  
the DAK Password field (B).  
• Then type the new network name in the Network Name field.  
Figure 40 Adding an Adapter to Your New Network  
A
B
4 Click Save.  
• If you do not type the DAK password or type it incorrectly either of the following pop-  
ups appear. Click OK and type the DAK Password correctly in the DAK Password field.  
Figure 41 Incorrect DAK or No DAK  
• If you have correctly entered the DAK Password, click OK on the pop-up.  
Figure 42 Correct DAK  
5 The settings for the adapter will now grey out and the adapter will disappear from the  
table after a few minutes.  
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Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
Figure 43 An Adapter on Your New Network  
6 Go back to step 3 in this section to set the same, new Network Name for all remote  
adapters you want to add to your new network.  
7 Check you have added the adapters correctly by changing the network name for the local  
adapter. All adapters with the new Network Name now appear in the list of adapters on  
your network. These adapters are now part of your new network.  
Figure 44 Adapters on a New Powerline Network  
• If you want to access any of your new powerline networks using the PLA-4xx Series  
Configuration Utility, change the Network Name on your local adapter to the network  
name for the network you want to access. The adapters on that network will then display  
in the adapter table, allowing you to select and configure each one.  
6.2 Troubleshooting  
The HomePlug ( ) LED (light) should light up on your adapter when it successfully  
connects to other adapters on your network. If it does not, try the following measures.  
• Make sure the adapter is plugged in to a power socket and the power socket is turned on.  
• Check you have entered the correct network name for your network.  
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Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
• Check your powerline adapter is connected to the same electrical circuit as other  
powerline adapters on your network.  
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Chapter 6 Powerline Network Setup Tutorial  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
60  
CHAPTER 7  
LEDs and Troubleshooting  
This chapter describes the behavior of the LEDs (lights) and offers some suggestions to solve  
problems you might encounter.  
7.1 LEDs  
The following sections describes the lights on the PLA-400, PLA-400 v2 and PLA402 v2, the  
PLA-401, PLA401 v2 and the PLA-470.  
7.1.1 PLA-401/PLA401 v2  
The following figure is the front panel of the PLA-401. Use the lights to determine if the PLA-  
4xx is behaving normally or if there are some problems on your powerline network.  
Figure 45 PLA-401 Lights  
The following table describes the behavior of the lights on the PLA-401.  
Table 9 PLA-401 Lights  
LIGHT  
ICON  
STATUS  
On  
DESCRIPTION  
POWER  
The PLA-401 is on and receiving power.  
The PLA-401 is not receiving power.  
Off  
HomePlug  
On  
The PLA-401 detects another powerline adapter.  
The PLA-401 is communicating with another powerline adapter.  
The PLA-401 is not detecting another powerline adapter.  
Blinking  
Off  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
LIGHT  
ICON  
STATUS  
DESCRIPTION  
ETHERNET  
On  
The ETHERNET port is on and ready and the PLA-401 detects  
a device connected to it.  
Blinking  
Off  
The PLA-401 is communicating with a router, modem, switch or  
a computer connected to it.  
The PLA-401 does not detect any devices connected to its  
ETHERNET port.  
The following table describes the behavior of the lights on the PLA-401 v2.  
Table 10 PLA-401 v2 Lights  
LIGHTS  
ICON COLOR STATUS DESCRIPTION  
POWER  
Green  
On  
The PLA-401 v2 is on and receiving power.  
It also indicates a successful connection using the  
ENCRYPT button.  
Blinking  
The PLA-401 v2 is starting up.  
It also indicates the PLA-400 v2 is trying to connect with  
another device using the ENCRYPT function.  
Blinking at the same time as the HomePlug light  
indicates an unsuccessful connection if you have used  
the ENCRYPT button.  
Off  
On  
The PLA-401 v2 is not receiving power.  
HomePlug  
Green  
Amber  
Red  
The PLA-401 v2 detects another powerline adapter.  
The data transfer rate is greater than 40 Mbps.  
The PLA-401 v2 detects another powerline adapter.  
The data transfer rate is between 10~40 Mbps.  
The PLA-401 v2 detects another powerline adapter.  
The data transfer rate is between 0~10 Mbps.  
Green/  
Amber/  
Red  
Blinking  
The PLA-401 v2 is communicating with another  
powerline adapter. Data is being transmitted and/or  
received.  
Blinking at the same time as the POWER light indicates  
an unsuccessful connection if you have used the  
ENCRYPT button.  
Off  
The HomePlug port does not detect another powerline  
adapter.  
ETHERNET  
Green  
On  
The ETHERNET port is on and ready and the PLA-401  
v2 detects a device connected to it.  
Blinking  
Off  
The PLA-401 v2 is communicating with a networking  
device connected to it.  
The PLA-401 v2 does not detect any devices  
connected to its ETHERNET port.  
7.1.2 PLA-400/400 v2/402 v2  
The following figure is the front panel of the PLA-400, PLA-400 v2 and PLA402 v2. Use the  
lights to determine if your PLA-4xx is behaving normally or if there are some problems on  
your powerline network.  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
Figure 46 PLA-400/400 v2/ 402 v2 Lights  
The following table describes the behavior of the lights on the PLA-400.  
Table 11 PLA-400 Lights  
LIGHTS  
ICON  
STATUS  
On  
DESCRIPTION  
POWER  
The PLA-400 is on and receiving power.  
The PLA-400 is not receiving power.  
Off  
HomePlug  
On  
The PLA-400 detects another powerline adapter.  
The PLA-400 is communicating with another powerline adapter.  
The PLA-400 is not detecting another powerline adapter.  
Blinking  
Off  
ETHERNET  
On  
The ETHERNET port is on and ready and the PLA-400/402 v2  
detects a device connected to it.  
Blinking  
Off  
The PLA-400 is communicating with a router, modem, switch or  
a computer connected to it.  
The PLA-400 does not detect any devices connected to its  
ETHERNET port.  
The following table describes the behavior of the lights on the PLA-400 v2.  
Table 12 PLA-400 v2/402 v2 Lights  
LIGHTS  
ICON COLOR STATUS DESCRIPTION  
POWER  
Green  
On  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 is on and receiving power.  
It also indicates a successful connection using the  
ENCRYPT button.  
Blinking  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 is starting up.  
It also indicates the PLA-400 v2 is trying to connect with  
another device using the ENCRYPT function.  
Blinking at the same time as the HomePlug light  
indicates an unsuccessful connection if you have used  
the ENCRYPT button.  
Off  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 is not receiving power.  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
Table 12 PLA-400 v2/402 v2 Lights (continued)  
LIGHTS  
ICON COLOR STATUS DESCRIPTION  
HomePlug  
Green  
Amber  
Red  
On  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 detects another powerline  
adapter. The data transfer rate is greater than 40 Mbps.  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 detects another powerline  
adapter. The data transfer rate is between 10~40 Mbps.  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 detects another powerline  
adapter. The data transfer rate is between 0~10 Mbps.  
Green/  
Amber/  
Red  
Blinking  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 is communicating with another  
powerline adapter. Data is being transmitted and/or  
received.  
Blinking at the same time as the POWER light indicates  
an unsuccessful connection if you have used the  
ENCRYPT button.  
Off  
The HomePlug port does not detect another powerline  
adapter.  
ETHERNET  
Green  
On  
The ETHERNET port is on and ready and the PLA-400  
v2/402 v2 detects a device connected to it.  
Blinking  
Off  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 is communicating with a  
networking device connected to it.  
The PLA-400 v2/402 v2 does not detect any devices  
connected to its ETHERNET port.  
7.1.3 PLA-470/PLA470 v2  
The following figure is the front panel of the PLA-470 and PLA-470 v2. Use the lights to  
determine if the PLA-470 or PLA470 v2 is behaving normally or if there are some problems  
on your powerline network.  
Figure 47 PLA-470 and PLA-470 v2 Lights  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
The following table describes the behavior of the lights on the PLA-470.  
Table 13 PLA-470 Lights  
LIGHTS  
ICON  
COLOR  
STATUS  
DESCRIPTION  
POWER  
Green  
On  
The PLA-470 is on and receiving power.  
It also indicates a successful connection using the  
ENCRYPT button.  
Blinking  
The PLA-470 is starting up.  
It also indicates the PLA-470 is trying to connect with  
another device using the ENCRYPT function.  
Blinking at the same time as the HomePlug light indicates  
an unsuccessful connection if you have used the  
ENCRYPT button.  
Off  
The PLA-470 is not receiving power.  
HomePlug  
Green  
On  
The PLA-470 detects another powerline adapter. .  
Blinking  
The PLA-470 is communicating with another powerline  
adapter. Data is being transmitted and/or received.  
Blinking at the same time as the POWER light indicates an  
unsuccessful connection if you have used the ENCRYPT  
button.  
Off  
The HomePlug port does not detect another powerline  
adapter.  
ETHERNET  
On  
The ETHERNET port is on and ready and the PLA-470  
detects a device connected to it.  
Blinking  
Off  
The PLA-470 is communicating with a router, modem,  
switch or a computer connected to it.  
The PLA-470 does not detect any devices connected to its  
ETHERNET port.  
The following table describes the behavior of the lights on the PLA470 v2.  
Table 14 PLA470 v2 Lights  
LIGHTS  
ICON  
COLOR  
STATUS  
DESCRIPTION  
POWER  
Green  
On  
The PLA470 v2 is on and receiving power.  
It also indicates a successful connection using the  
ENCRYPT button.  
Blinking  
The PLA470 v2 is starting up.  
It also indicates the PLA470 v2 is trying to connect with  
another device using the ENCRYPT function.  
Blinking at the same time as the HomePlug light indicates  
an unsuccessful connection if you have used the  
ENCRYPT button.  
Off  
The PLA470 v2 is not receiving power.  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
Table 14 PLA470 v2 Lights (continued)  
LIGHTS  
ICON  
COLOR  
STATUS  
DESCRIPTION  
HomePlug  
Green  
On  
The PLA470 v2 detects another powerline adapter. The  
data transfer rate is greater than 40 Mbps.  
Amber  
Red  
The PLA470 v2 detects another powerline adapter. The  
data transfer rate is between 10~40 Mbps.  
The PLA470 v2 detects another powerline adapter. The  
data transfer rate is between 0~10 Mbps.  
Green/  
Amber/  
Red  
Blinking  
The PLA470 v2 is communicating with another powerline  
adapter. Data is being transmitted and/or received.  
Blinking at the same time as the POWER light indicates an  
unsuccessful connection if you have used the ENCRYPT  
button.  
Off  
The HomePlug port does not detect another powerline  
adapter.  
ETHERNET  
On  
The ETHERNET port is on and ready and the PLA470  
detects a device connected to it.  
Blinking  
Off  
The PLA470 is communicating with a router, modem,  
switch or a computer connected to it.  
The PLA470 does not detect any devices connected to its  
ETHERNET port.  
7.2 Power and Light Problems  
V
The PLA-4xx does not turn on. None of the lights turn on.  
1 Make sure you are using the power cord included with the PLA-4xx.  
2 Make sure the power cord is connected to the PLA-4xx and plugged in to an appropriate  
power source. Make sure the power source is turned on.  
3 Disconnect and re-connect the power cord to the PLA-4xx.  
4 Remove the powerline adapter from the outlet. Then connect an electrical device that  
you know works into the same power outlet. This checks the status of the power outlet.  
5 If the problem continues, contact the vendor.  
V
The ETHERNET light does not turn on.  
1 Check the hardware connections. See the Quick Start Guide.  
2 Inspect your cables for damage. Contact the vendor to replace any damaged cables.  
3 Check the Ethernet adapter on your computer and make sure it’s enabled and working  
properly.  
4 If the PLA-4xx is connected to an Ethernet switch or router, make sure the device is  
working correctly, and that the LAN network is working and configured correctly as  
well.  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
V
The HomePlug light does not turn on.  
1 Check all PLA-4xxs on your network have the latest firmware installed. PLA-4xxs with  
the latest firmware cannot communicate with PLA-4xxs using earlier versions of the  
firmware. Go to Section 5.4 on page 44 for instructions on installing the latest firmware.  
2 Use the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility to detect all other HomePlug devices on  
your powerline network. Make sure that the network name (sometimes called the  
network password) is the same on all of your powerline adapters. See Section 5.3 on  
page 43 for instructions on checking the network name.  
3 Check the DAK password and MAC address for all powerline adapters are typed  
correctly in the utility. See Section 5.3 on page 43 for instructions on checking the DAK  
and MAC address.  
4 Make sure that all your powerline adapters are HomePlug AV compliant. Check the  
package it came in or ask your vendor. This PLA-4xx can not detect earlier versions of  
HomePlug powerline adapters such as HomePlug 1.0 or 1.0.1. (Although they can  
coexist on the same electrical wiring without interfering with each other.)  
5 Make sure that the powerline adapters on your network are all on the same electrical  
wiring. Connect another powerline adapter into an outlet close to your PLA-4xx’s power  
outlet. They are probably now on the same electrical wiring. Check the HomePlug  
light. If it now lights up your powerline adapter was probably previously on separate  
electrical wiring. Ask an electrician for more information on the electrical wiring in your  
building.  
6 If your powerline network is using coaxial cable, check all powerline adapters are on the  
same coaxial cable.  
7 If your powerline network is using electrical wiring (not coaxial cable), check you do not  
have a power meter between powerline adapters. Powerline signals cannot pass this.  
V
The POWER and HomePlug light blink at the same time.  
• You have pressed the ENCRYPT button for more than three seconds. Try setting up a  
connection again, this time pressing the ENCRYPT buttons on both devices for less than  
three seconds.  
7.3 Configuration Utility Problems  
V
The PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility displays an error during installation.  
• Make sure your computer is using Windows XP or Windows Vista (32-bit) operating  
system. At the time of writing, this is the only compatible operating system for the  
configuration utility.  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
V
The PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility does not display all or any of my  
devices.  
• Inspect the LEDs on your PLA-4xx and make sure that the ETHERNET and HomePlug  
LEDs are on or blinking. See Section 7.2 on page 66 for troubleshooting LED related  
problems.  
• Check all ZyxEL HomePlug AV devices on your network have the latest firmware  
installed. The latest utility cannot communicate with PLA-4xxs using earlier versions of  
the firmware. Go to Section 5.4 on page 44 for instructions on installing the latest  
firmware.  
• Check you are using the latest version utility. Earlier version utilities cannot communicate  
with PLA-4xxs using the latest firmware. If you do not have the latest utility, download it  
from the ZyXEL website.  
• If the device is not a ZyXEL device, then the DAK and Network Name will be greyed out.  
• If you are running another tool such as the Firmware Detection Tool or Firmware  
Upgrade Tool, the Utility will not detect your local device.  
7.4 Powerline Problems  
V
The signal on my powerline network is weak.  
1 Your powerline adapters may be connected to electrical surge protectors. Connect them  
to standard power outlets.  
2 Your powerline adapters may be located close to large appliances such as refrigerators or  
air-conditioners that cause interference with the powerline signal. Move the adapters  
further away from such appliances to reduce interference.  
3 Your powerline adapters may be placed close to electrical devices such as electrical  
insect-killers which produce radio waves. These may interfere with the powerline  
signals. Move the adapters further away from such electrical devices.  
4 Your wiring may be old and/or low quality or with a long wiring path.  
7.5 ENCRYPT Button Problems  
This section applies only to PLA-4xxs with the ENCRYPT button.  
V
The HomePlug light is already on, but I haven’t pressed the ENCRYPT button  
yet.  
Your device has already connected to another powerline device. Press the ENCRYPT button  
for more than 10 seconds to release the connection.  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
V
The POWER light does not blink when I press the ENCRYPT button.  
• Check the device is on.  
• Press the ENCRYPT button again, making certain you have pressed the button for more  
than one second and less than three seconds.  
• The POWER light on some powerline devices do not blink as part of the ENCRYPT  
process. Check your powerline device is a PLA-4xx.  
V
V
The POWER light blinks two times quickly then pauses, before repeating.  
The ENCRYPT process has failed. Press the ENCRYPT button on both devices for more than  
10 seconds, then try to reconnect.  
The POWER lights on both devices blink when I press the ENCRYPT buttons,  
but the HomePlug light does not turn on.  
• Ensure you have pressed the ENCRYPT button on both devices.  
• Wait for about a minute while the devices set up a connection.  
• If that does not work, try again with both devices connected to a power strip next to each  
other. If they now connect, then the devices were not on the same electrical circuit before.  
V
V
The POWER lights on both devices blink, then many lights blink and the  
HomePlug light blinks red.  
Do not worry, the connection process is proceeding normally.  
The POWER lights on both devices finished blinking, but only one device’s  
HomePlug light is on.  
One device may have connected to a third powerline device. To check device A is connected  
to device B and not another device, disconnect device B from its power source. Device A’s  
HomePlug ( ) light will turn off if the connection is with Device B. Press the ENCRYPT  
button on both devices for more than 10 seconds, then try to reconnect, pressing the  
ENCRYPT button for less than 3 seconds on both devices.  
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Chapter 7 LEDs and Troubleshooting  
V
I pressed the ENCRYPT button for more than 10 seconds, but the HomePlug  
light is still on.  
The HomePlug light is on, indicating it is still connected to another powerline device. Try  
again, pressing the ENCRYPT button for more than 10 seconds.  
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PART III  
Appendices and  
Index  
Product Specifications (73)  
Customer Support (79)  
Legal Information (85)  
Index (89)  
71  
 
72  
APPENDIX A  
Product Specifications  
The following tables summarize the PLA-4xx’s hardware and firmware features.  
Table 15 Hardware Specifications  
Dimensions (W x D x H) PLA-400/400 v2/402 v2  
112 (L) mm x 106 (D) mm x 28.5 (H) mm  
PLA-470  
162 (L) mm x 118 (D) mm x 40 (H) mm  
PLA-401/PLA401 v2  
97 mm (L) x 45 (H) mm x 70 (W) mm  
Power Input  
PLA-400/401 v2  
100 - 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 0.12 A  
PLA-400 v2/402 v2  
100 - 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 0.13 A  
PLA401/470  
100 - 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 0.2 A  
Ethernet Port  
RESET  
Auto-negotiating: 10 Mbps or 100 Mbps in either half-duplex or full-duplex  
mode.  
Auto-crossover: Use either crossover or straight-through Ethernet cables.  
Pressing this button in for less than 3 seconds resets the device to factory  
default settings. Network Name becomes HomePlugAV.  
Pressing this button in for more than 10 seconds resets the firmware to the  
previous version.  
ENCRYPT  
Pressing this button in for less than 3 seconds begins the connection setup  
process.  
Pressing this button in for more than 10 seconds resets the network name  
to a random value.  
Coaxial Port  
PLA 402 v2 only  
Operation Environment  
PLA-400/401/400 v2/470  
Temperature: 0º C ~ 45º C  
Humidity: 5% ~ 95% Noncondensing  
PLA401 v2/PLA402 v2  
Temperature: 0º C ~ 45º C  
Humidity:10% ~ 85% Noncondensing  
Storage Environment  
PLA-400/401/400 v2/470  
Temperature: -10º C ~ 70º C  
Humidity: 10% ~ 85% Noncondensing  
PLA401 v2/PLA402 v2  
Temperature: - 20º C ~ 60º C  
Humidity: 10% ~ 90% Noncondensing  
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Appendix A Product Specifications  
Table 15 Hardware Specifications  
Cabling Type  
PLA-400/400 v2/401/401 v2/402/470  
1 x Power Cord  
PLA-400/400 v2/401/401 v2/402  
1 x LAN UTP Category 5 or Better  
PLA-402 v2  
1 x Coaxial Cable (RG6 or RG59 cable with 75 ohm impedance preferred  
but others are compatible. RG6 cables are common for CATV. F-Type Male  
connector required.)  
PLA-470  
4 x LAN UTP Category 5 or Better  
Network Interface  
PLA-400/400 v2/401/401 v2/402 v2/470  
1 x 200 Mbps Powerline port compliant with HomePlug AV standard  
PLA-400/400 v2/401/401 v2/402 v2  
1 x 10/100M BASE-T Ethernet port with Auto MDI/MDIX  
PLA-470  
4 x 10/100 M Base-T Ethernet Ports with Auto MDI/MDIX  
PLA-402 v2  
1 x Coaxial Cable Port  
Distance between the  
centers of the holes on  
the device’s back.  
PLA-400/400 v2/401/401 v2/402 v2  
74 mm  
PLA-470  
1150 mm  
PLA-401/401 v2  
Not applicable  
Recommended type of  
screws for wall-mounting  
PLA-400/400 v2/402 v2/470  
M3 Tap Screw  
PLA-401/401 v2  
Not applicable  
Table 16 Firmware Specifications  
FEATURE  
DESCRIPTION  
Powerline Functionality  
The HomePlug AV standard specifies how network devices  
communicate using standard electrical wiring.  
It supports a data transfer rate of up to 200Mbps.  
Data is encrypted using 128-bit AES (Advanced Encryption Standard).  
HomePlug AV compatible devices co-exist with HomePlug 1.0 devices  
but do not detect each other.  
The range of a HomePlug AV Powerline network is 300 meters/984 feet  
in optimal conditions.  
HomePlug AV is compatible with all OSs.  
The maximum number of devices connected (bridged) to single  
powerline adapter is 64.  
The maximum number of powerline devices on a single network is 64.  
The maximum number of powerline networks on a single electrical circuit  
is 4.  
HomePlug AV devices using version 3.0.5 firmware cannot communicate  
with earlier version firmware.  
Coaxial Functionality  
Encryption  
The range of a HomePlug AV Coaxial network is 800 meters/2624 feet in  
optimal conditions.  
128-bit AES Encryption  
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Appendix A Product Specifications  
Table 16 Firmware Specifications  
FEATURE  
DESCRIPTION  
1.8 MHz ~ 30 MHz  
Frequency Band  
Certifications  
FCC, CE, CUL, UL, HomePlug AV, RoHS, C-Tick  
Device Management  
Use the PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility version 3.0.5(AG) to easily  
configure the PLA-4xx.  
Note: The PLA-4xx Series Configuration Utility version  
3.0.5(AG) is only compatible with PLA-4xxs with  
the latest firmware installed.  
Network Name  
Change the powerline network name to only allow the powerline  
adapters you specify to join your network.  
Firmware Upgrade  
Download new firmware (when available) from the ZyXEL website and  
use the configuration utility to install it.  
Note: You do not need the configuration utility to install  
the latest firmware. Follow the instructions in  
Section 5.4 on page 44 for installing the latest  
firmware.  
Note: Only install firmware for your specific model!  
Table 17 Performance  
FEATURE  
DESCRIPTION  
Throughput over PHYsical Transport  
Medium (PHY)  
Supports up to 200 Mbps in half duplex mode  
Throughput over UDP  
Supports up to 150 Mbps over in-house power/coaxial  
lines (LAN port limits to 100 Mbps)  
Number of devices in one powerline  
network  
Supports up to 64 devices in 4 network groups  
The following list, which is not exhaustive, illustrates the standards supported in the PLA-4xx.  
Table 18 Standards Supported  
STANDARD  
HomePlug AV  
RFC 868  
DESCRIPTION  
Designed for transmitting audio/video on a home powerline network.  
Time Protocol.  
RFC 1112  
RFC 1157  
RFC 1901  
RFC 2236  
IGMP v1  
SNMPv1: Simple Network Management Protocol version 1  
SNMP v2c Simple Network Management Protocol version 2c  
Internet Group Management Protocol, Version 2.  
Wall-mounting Instructions  
Complete the following steps to hang your PLA-400/400 v2/401/401 v2/402 v2  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
75  
           
Appendix A Product Specifications  
on a wall.  
"
See Table 15 on page 73 for the size of screws to use and how far apart to place  
them.  
1 Select a high position on a sturdy wall that is free of obstructions.  
2 Drill two holes for the screws. The distance between the centers of the holes is listed in  
the product specifications appendix.  
1
Be careful to avoid damaging pipes or cables located inside the wall when  
drilling holes for the screws.  
3 Do not insert the screws all the way into the wall. Leave a small gap of about 0.5 cm  
between the heads of the screws and the wall.  
4 Make sure the screws are snugly fastened to the wall. They need to hold the weight of  
the PLA-4xx with the connection cables.  
5 Align the holes on the back of the PLA-4xx with the screws on the wall. Hang the PLA-  
4xx on the screws.  
Figure 48 Wall-mounting Example  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
76  
   
Appendix A Product Specifications  
Cable Pin Assignments  
RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments  
Figure 49 RJ-45 Connector Pins  
Table 19 RJ-45 Connector Pin Assignments  
PIN NO  
RJ-45 SIGNAL ASSIGNMENT  
RxD +  
RxD -  
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
TxD +  
Not connected  
Not connected  
TxD -  
Not connected  
Not connected  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
77  
   
Appendix A Product Specifications  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
78  
APPENDIX B  
Customer Support  
Please have the following information ready when you contact customer support.  
Required Information  
• Product model and serial number.  
• Warranty Information.  
• Date that you received your device.  
• Brief description of the problem and the steps you took to solve it.  
“+” is the (prefix) number you dial to make an international telephone call.  
Corporate Headquarters (Worldwide)  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.com.tw  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.com.tw  
• Telephone: +886-3-578-3942  
• Fax: +886-3-578-2439  
• Web: www.zyxel.com, www.europe.zyxel.com  
• FTP: ftp.zyxel.com, ftp.europe.zyxel.com  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications Corp., 6 Innovation Road II, Science Park,  
Hsinchu 300, Taiwan  
Costa Rica  
• Support E-mail: soporte@zyxel.co.cr  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.co.cr  
• Telephone: +506-2017878  
• Fax: +506-2015098  
• Web: www.zyxel.co.cr  
• FTP: ftp.zyxel.co.cr  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Costa Rica, Plaza Roble Escazú, Etapa El Patio, Tercer Piso, San  
José, Costa Rica  
Czech Republic  
• E-mail: info@cz.zyxel.com  
• Telephone: +420-241-091-350  
• Fax: +420-241-091-359  
• Web: www.zyxel.cz  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
79  
   
Appendix B Customer Support  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications, Czech s.r.o., Modranská 621, 143 01 Praha 4 -  
Modrany, Ceská Republika  
Denmark  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.dk  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.dk  
• Telephone: +45-39-55-07-00  
• Fax: +45-39-55-07-07  
• Web: www.zyxel.dk  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications A/S, Columbusvej, 2860 Soeborg, Denmark  
Finland  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.fi  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.fi  
• Telephone: +358-9-4780-8411  
• Fax: +358-9-4780-8448  
• Web: www.zyxel.fi  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications Oy, Malminkaari 10, 00700 Helsinki, Finland  
France  
• E-mail: info@zyxel.fr  
• Telephone: +33-4-72-52-97-97  
• Fax: +33-4-72-52-19-20  
• Web: www.zyxel.fr  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL France, 1 rue des Vergers, Bat. 1 / C, 69760 Limonest, France  
Germany  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.de  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.de  
• Telephone: +49-2405-6909-69  
• Fax: +49-2405-6909-99  
• Web: www.zyxel.de  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Deutschland GmbH., Adenauerstr. 20/A2 D-52146, Wuerselen,  
Germany  
Hungary  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.hu  
• Sales E-mail: info@zyxel.hu  
• Telephone: +36-1-3361649  
• Fax: +36-1-3259100  
• Web: www.zyxel.hu  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Hungary, 48, Zoldlomb Str., H-1025, Budapest, Hungary  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
80  
Appendix B Customer Support  
India  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.in  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.in  
• Telephone: +91-11-30888144 to +91-11-30888153  
• Fax: +91-11-30888149, +91-11-26810715  
• Web: http://www.zyxel.in  
• Regular Mail: India - ZyXEL Technology India Pvt Ltd., II-Floor, F2/9 Okhla Phase -1,  
New Delhi 110020, India  
Japan  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.co.jp  
• Sales E-mail: zyp@zyxel.co.jp  
• Telephone: +81-3-6847-3700  
• Fax: +81-3-6847-3705  
• Web: www.zyxel.co.jp  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Japan, 3F, Office T&U, 1-10-10 Higashi-Gotanda, Shinagawa-ku,  
Tokyo 141-0022, Japan  
Kazakhstan  
• Support: http://zyxel.kz/support  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.kz  
• Telephone: +7-3272-590-698  
• Fax: +7-3272-590-689  
• Web: www.zyxel.kz  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Kazakhstan, 43 Dostyk Ave., Office 414, Dostyk Business Centre,  
050010 Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan  
Malaysia  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.com.my  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.com.my  
• Telephone: +603-8076-9933  
• Fax: +603-8076-9833  
• Web: http://www.zyxel.com.my  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Malaysia Sdn Bhd., 1-02 & 1-03, Jalan Kenari 17F, Bandar  
Puchong Jaya, 47100 Puchong, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia  
North America  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.com  
• Support Telephone: +1-800-978-7222  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.com  
• Sales Telephone: +1-714-632-0882  
• Fax: +1-714-632-0858  
• Web: www.zyxel.com  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
81  
Appendix B Customer Support  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications Inc., 1130 N. Miller St., Anaheim, CA 92806-  
2001, U.S.A.  
Norway  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.no  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.no  
• Telephone: +47-22-80-61-80  
• Fax: +47-22-80-61-81  
• Web: www.zyxel.no  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications A/S, Nils Hansens vei 13, 0667 Oslo, Norway  
Poland  
• E-mail: info@pl.zyxel.com  
• Telephone: +48-22-333 8250  
• Fax: +48-22-333 8251  
• Web: www.pl.zyxel.com  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications, ul. Okrzei 1A, 03-715 Warszawa, Poland  
Russia  
• Support: http://zyxel.ru/support  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.ru  
• Telephone: +7-095-542-89-29  
• Fax: +7-095-542-89-25  
• Web: www.zyxel.ru  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Russia, Ostrovityanova 37a Str., Moscow 117279, Russia  
Singapore  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.com.sg  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.com.sg  
• Telephone: +65-6899-6678  
• Fax: +65-6899-8887  
• Web: http://www.zyxel.com.sg  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Singapore Pte Ltd., No. 2 International Business Park, The Strategy  
#03-28, Singapore 609930  
Spain  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.es  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.es  
• Telephone: +34-902-195-420  
• Fax: +34-913-005-345  
• Web: www.zyxel.es  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications, Arte, 21 5ª planta, 28033 Madrid, Spain  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
82  
Appendix B Customer Support  
Sweden  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.se  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.se  
• Telephone: +46-31-744-7700  
• Fax: +46-31-744-7701  
• Web: www.zyxel.se  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications A/S, Sjöporten 4, 41764 Göteborg, Sweden  
Thailand  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.co.th  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.co.th  
• Telephone: +662-831-5315  
• Fax: +662-831-5395  
• Web: http://www.zyxel.co.th  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Thailand Co., Ltd., 1/1 Moo 2, Ratchaphruk Road, Bangrak-Noi,  
Muang, Nonthaburi 11000, Thailand.  
Ukraine  
• Support E-mail: support@ua.zyxel.com  
• Sales E-mail: sales@ua.zyxel.com  
• Telephone: +380-44-247-69-78  
• Fax: +380-44-494-49-32  
• Web: www.ua.zyxel.com  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Ukraine, 13, Pimonenko Str., Kiev 04050, Ukraine  
United Kingdom  
• Support E-mail: support@zyxel.co.uk  
• Sales E-mail: sales@zyxel.co.uk  
• Telephone: +44-1344-303044, 08707-555779 (UK only)  
• Fax: +44-1344-303034  
• Web: www.zyxel.co.uk  
• FTP: ftp.zyxel.co.uk  
• Regular Mail: ZyXEL Communications UK Ltd., 11 The Courtyard, Eastern Road,  
Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 2XB, United Kingdom (UK)  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
83  
Appendix B Customer Support  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
84  
APPENDIX C  
Legal Information  
Copyright  
Copyright © 2007 by ZyXEL Communications Corporation.  
The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in any part or as a whole, transcribed,  
stored in a retrieval system, translated into any language, or transmitted in any form or by any  
means, electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, chemical, photocopying, manual, or  
otherwise, without the prior written permission of ZyXEL Communications Corporation.  
Published by ZyXEL Communications Corporation. All rights reserved.  
Disclaimer  
ZyXEL does not assume any liability arising out of the application or use of any products, or  
software described herein. Neither does it convey any license under its patent rights nor the  
patent rights of others. ZyXEL further reserves the right to make changes in any products  
described herein without notice. This publication is subject to change without notice.  
Trademarks  
ZyNOS (ZyXEL Network Operating System) is a registered trademark of ZyXEL  
Communications, Inc. Other trademarks mentioned in this publication are used for  
identification purposes only and may be properties of their respective owners.  
Certifications  
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Interference Statement  
The device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two  
conditions:  
• This device may not cause harmful interference.  
• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause  
undesired operations.  
This device 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 device 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.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
85  
             
Appendix C Legal Information  
If this device does cause harmful interference to radio/television reception, which can be  
determined by turning the device off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the  
interference by one or more of the following measures:  
1 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
2 Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.  
3 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the  
receiver is connected.  
4 Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
CE-Konformität  
Das Produkt entspricht den grundlegenden Anforderungen der Richtlinie 1999/5/EG  
(R&TTE) sowie den übrigen einschlägigen Bestimmungen des FTEG und ist zum Betrieb in  
der EU und Schweiz vorgesehen. Das Produkt ist eine Einrichtung der Klasse A. Diese  
Einrichtung kann im Wohnbereich Funkstörungen verursachen; in diesem Fall kann vom  
Betreiber verlangt werden, angemessene Massnahmen durchzuführen.  
Conformité CE  
Le produit satisfait aux exigences techniques de la directive 1999/5/CE (R&TTE) et est conçu  
pour être utilisé au sein de la Communauté européenne et en Suisse. Le produit fait partie de la  
classe A, ce qui signifie que son exploitation peut entraîner des bruits parasites dans les zones  
d'habitation; le cas échéant, l'exploitant peut être tenu de prendre des mesures appropriées  
pour remédier au dérangement.  
Conformità CE  
Questo prodotto soddisfa le richieste tecniche della direttiva 1999/5/EG (R&TTE) ed è  
previsto per il funzionamento nella UE e in Svizzera.Il prodotto è dispositivo della classe A.  
Questo dispositivo può causare nel settore abitativo dei radiodisturbi.  
In questo caso può essere richiesto al gestore di prendere opportune misure.  
Notices  
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance  
could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
Viewing Certifications  
1 Go to http://www.zyxel.com.  
2 Select your product on the ZyXEL home page to go to that product's page.  
3 Select the certification you wish to view from this page.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
86  
   
Appendix C Legal Information  
ZyXEL Limited Warranty  
ZyXEL warrants to the original end user (purchaser) that this product is free from any defects  
in materials or workmanship for a period of up to two years from the date of purchase. During  
the warranty period, and upon proof of purchase, should the product have indications of failure  
due to faulty workmanship and/or materials, ZyXEL will, at its discretion, repair or replace the  
defective products or components without charge for either parts or labor, and to whatever  
extent it shall deem necessary to restore the product or components to proper operating  
condition. Any replacement will consist of a new or re-manufactured functionally equivalent  
product of equal or higher value, and will be solely at the discretion of ZyXEL. This warranty  
shall not apply if the product has been modified, misused, tampered with, damaged by an act  
of God, or subjected to abnormal working conditions.  
Note  
Repair or replacement, as provided under this warranty, is the exclusive remedy of the  
purchaser. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, including any  
implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular use or purpose. ZyXEL shall in  
no event be held liable for indirect or consequential damages of any kind to the purchaser.  
To obtain the services of this warranty, contact ZyXEL's Service Center for your Return  
Material Authorization number (RMA). Products must be returned Postage Prepaid. It is  
recommended that the unit be insured when shipped. Any returned products without proof of  
purchase or those with an out-dated warranty will be repaired or replaced (at the discretion of  
ZyXEL) and the customer will be billed for parts and labor. All repaired or replaced products  
will be shipped by ZyXEL to the corresponding return address, Postage Paid. This warranty  
gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from country to  
country.  
Registration  
Register your product online to receive e-mail notices of firmware upgrades and information  
at www.zyxel.com for global products, or at www.us.zyxel.com for North American products.  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
87  
     
Appendix C Legal Information  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
88  
Index  
Index  
electrical circuit boundaries 41  
encryption 17, 41, 74  
ETHN LED 61  
Symbols  
.NET Framework 21  
F
A
FCC 75  
about screen 49  
FCC interference statement 85  
frequency band 75  
Advanced Encryption Standard, see AES 17  
AES 19, 41  
AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) 17  
applications 17  
H
HomePlug AV standard 17  
C
humidity, operation and storage 73  
cabling type 74  
CE 75  
certifications 75, 85  
notices 86  
I
viewing 86  
installation  
coaxial cable 18  
overview 21  
procedure 21  
requirements 21  
configuration screen 43  
connections overview 17  
contact information 79  
copyright 85  
InstallShield wizard 23  
introduction 17  
customer support 79  
L
D
LED 61  
DAK 31, 42, 43  
ETHN 61  
LINK 61  
PWR 61  
DAK (Data Access Password) 19  
Data Access Password, see DAK 19  
dimensions 73  
LINK LED 61  
local vs. remote adapter 31, 43  
disclaimer 85  
M
E
MAC address 31, 43  
electrical and cable wiring 41  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
89  
   
Index  
management  
T
multiple networks 20  
overview 41  
temperature, operation and storage 73  
trademarks 85  
managing the device  
using the web configurator. See web configurator.  
transfer rates 17  
multiple networks 20  
transmit rate 45  
troubleshooting 61  
N
U
network example 41  
network information 45  
network ports 74  
utility  
launching 42  
P
W
passwords 31, 42, 43, 44  
warranty 87  
types of 19  
note 87  
plug-and-play 41  
web configurator 18  
power specification 73  
priority settings 46  
application type 47  
priority levels 49  
private network 19  
problems and solutions 61  
product registration 87  
PWR LED 61  
R
receive rate 45  
registration  
customer information 24  
product 87  
user name 24  
related documentation 3  
S
safety warnings 5  
screws 76  
security 19, 20, 42  
passwords 19  
starting the utility 42  
syntax conventions 4  
PLA-4xx Series User’s Guide  
90  

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