D-Link DHP-308AV - User Manual

The D-Link Powerline AV+ Mini Adapter (models DHP-308AV/DHP-309AV) is a networking device designed to extend your home network using your existing electrical wiring. This innovative adapter allows you to connect computers, networking devices, and gaming consoles to the Internet and share files, printers, and play games through the most ubiquitous medium in your home – the electric powerlines.

At its core, the Powerline AV+ Mini Adapter provides an Ethernet to Powerline connection, transforming your electrical outlets into network ports. This eliminates the need for running new Ethernet cables throughout your home, offering a convenient and clutter-free networking solution. The device boasts a fast data transfer rate of up to 500Mbps*, enabling smooth streaming of high-definition content, online gaming, and rapid file transfers. Each adapter features one Ethernet port, allowing you to connect a single wired device to your Powerline network.

One of the key usage features of this adapter is its "Plug & Play" design, ensuring easy installation for users of all technical levels. Simply plug the DHP-308AV into an AC wall outlet or power strip. The Power LED will illuminate to confirm that the device is receiving electrical power. Next, connect an Ethernet cable from the adapter to your network router, PC, or other Ethernet-enabled device. The Ethernet LED will light up to indicate a successful network connection. This straightforward setup process means you can get your Powerline network up and running quickly without complex configurations.

For enhanced network security, the D-Link Powerline AV+ Mini Adapter incorporates a "Push Button Security" feature. By default, all Powerline AV+ Mini Adapters use a common encryption key, "HomePlug AV," which allows them to communicate with each other right out of the box. However, to protect your network from unauthorized access and create a private, secure environment, it is highly recommended to establish a private encryption key. This process involves a simple sequence of button presses. First, ensure all adapters are plugged in and set to their default HomePlug AV encryption key. If an adapter's key is not default, press and hold the Simple Connect button for 10 seconds to reset it. Then, press the Simple Connect button on your first adapter for no more than three seconds. The Power LED on this adapter will start blinking, indicating it is generating a private, randomly generated encryption key. Within two minutes, press the Simple Connect button on your second adapter for no more than three seconds. Its Power LED will also blink. Once this is done, both adapters will be securely configured with the same private encryption key. For adding more adapters to an existing secure network, simply press the Simple Connect button on the new adapter for no more than three seconds, followed by pressing the Simple Connect button on any existing adapter in your secure network for no more than two seconds, all within a two-minute window. This ensures all devices share the same encryption key, and the adapters will retain these security settings even if unplugged.

The device also includes a "Power Saving mode," which contributes to its maintenance features by promoting energy efficiency. When there is no Ethernet link activity for five minutes, the DHP-308AV will automatically enter power-saving mode. In this mode, the Power LED will blink intermittently. It's important to note that D-Link Powerline devices cannot be configured while in Power Saving Mode. This automatic power-saving feature helps reduce energy consumption when the network is idle, making the device more environmentally friendly and potentially lowering electricity costs.

When considering the installation of your Powerline devices, several factors should be kept in mind to ensure optimal performance and safety. It is crucial to connect Powerline devices to electrical outlets that are not controlled by a wall switch, preventing accidental power interruptions. Avoid plugging Powerline devices into extension cords, surge protectors, or power strips, as these can hinder proper operation or reduce network performance. Similarly, steer clear of electrical outlets located near high-power appliances like washers, dryers, or refrigerators, as the electrical noise generated by these devices can negatively impact network performance. Always verify that your Powerline devices are electrically rated for the power available in your location. For safety, ensure the power cables are plugged into properly grounded electrical outlets. The Powerline device is equipped with a three-pronged plug for proper grounding; never use adapter plugs or remove the grounding prong.

Regarding maintenance and safety, the D-Link Powerline AV+ Mini Adapter is designed for user-friendly operation with minimal upkeep. Users are advised not to open the device or attempt repairs themselves. Only use the included power adapter. Ensure the device is plugged into the wall in a vertical position with ports facing down. It should be used in a dry location, avoiding humid environments. Do not submerge the device in liquid or attempt to clean it with liquids or solvents; instead, disconnect it from the power outlet and use a damp towel for cleaning. Keep the device out of direct sunlight and ensure its vents are not covered or blocked to allow for adequate ventilation. Avoid placing the device near heaters or radiators to prevent overheating. Following these guidelines will help ensure the longevity and safe operation of your Powerline AV+ Mini Adapter.

In case of troubleshooting, if you encounter issues configuring the adapter, ensure it remains plugged in during the configuration process. If you change the connection cable to another network adapter and the utility stops working correctly, simply restart the utility. For more complex network configuration problems involving multiple Powerline AV+ Mini Adapters, a general reset of all network adapters to their factory default settings, followed by reconfiguring them, is recommended. This systematic approach to setup and maintenance ensures a reliable and secure home network experience.

• Maximum throughput based on theoretical transmission PHY rate. Actual data throughput will vary. Network conditions and environmental factors, including volume of traffic and network overhead, may lower actual data throughput rate. Interference from devices that emit electrical noise, such as vacuum cleaners and hair dryers, may adversely affect the performance of this product. This product may interfere with devices such as lighting systems that have a dimmer switch, short wave radios, or other powerline devices that do not follow the HomePlug AV and IEEE1901 standard.