Summary

The model number for the master/slave pair is BL-PA100KT. These units are some of the best examples of the new powerline devices that use home wiring for networking. They are great for ethernet networking under Linux in the average (i.e., un-wired for ethernet) home, and are ideal for multimedia use in different rooms. Media streaming definitely is possible. The units do require broadband, an ethernet connection with a router for the master unit or a nic/ethernet card with a remote pc, and ac power for each unit.

These Panasonic devices, unlike most others, neither require an OS, drivers, nor a browser for configuration (this is a very cheery solution for linux users--generally, ethernet cards and nics (vs. wifi cards) are really well supported in the distros). Needless to say, Windows also works well with the units.

The master and slave units are plugged into the same output, two buttons are pushed as indicated in instructions, the units link internally, and a form of powerline encryption is automatically enforced--such encryption is useful when wiring is shared in a communal building. Afterwards, however, it is very desirable for a separate ac outlet to be dedicated for each unit for the best signal--unfortunately, power strips, UPSs, and surge protectors are very problematic. Following easy instructions, a master may become a slave and vice-versa....

In my situation, the far bedroom unit works very well, with maximum signal, in a 1900 sq. ft. home--to a very reasonable extent, walls and physical obstructions don't seem to matter. Panasonic, nevertheless, indicates that too much distance in home wiring can affect performance....

The units seem to work seemlessly, flawlessly-- except that the network sometimes sleeps in idleness, yet, the network immediately wakes up after keyboard or mouse use. Samba, OS, and Windows anti-virus updates are very easy. Use is so seemless that, recently, I tend to use the remote (living room) PC (with both Windows and linux) more than the router-connected (office) PC--the network is that strong....

For multimedia (or generic) use in the average home with networked linux/Windows desktops, the units are an ideal solution.

OSes used on remote PCs: Windows 98, XP, Fedora 6,7, Ubuntu 6.06, 6.10, 7.04, 7.10, Kubuntu 7.04, 7.10. OSes used on the main (router connected) PC: Fedora 6, 7, Ubuntu 6.06, 6.10, 7.04, 7.10.