An Innovative New Way to Connect to the Net While you Travel

Computer technology is in a constant state ofcomplexes are ideal arenas for iBridge installations.
flux - and with it, the various methods ofNASA and the US military use it. The grapevine
connecting to the internet. Carrying a laptopsays that Telkonet's invention is even being
computer with you while you travel is probably aemployed by the military in overseas areas such
way of life if you take frequent business trips.as Iraq.
You know all about DSL, dial-up, wireless, andA Short Explanation of the Technology
cable connections - but the hotel reservationsInternet packets arrive at a Telkonet 10/100
desk has just informed you that their hotel offersgateway Ethernet port. A specialized multi-channel
iBridge internet. 'Huh? iBridge?' you say! Will it workrouter then instantaneously scans power lines for
with your current laptop computer?iBridge in aspikes and interference, dispatching the data out
NutshelliBridge technology uses existing electricalover clean power lines in PCL format. At the
wiring to connect to the net. Telkonet, a companyreceiving end, data enters an iBridge device that
based in Germantown, Maryland, has devised aconverts everything back to the format
system that allows you to establish an internetrecognized by your computer - which is
connection by plugging a special adapter into anyconnected to the device via Cat 5 cable.
available electrical outlet. The adapter has an inputLooking to the Future
for Cat 5 cable - today's standard for EthernetWouldn't it be convenient if internet access were
connectivity. Within seconds, you can be usingavailable at every electrical outlet in the world?
your laptop to surf the net. iBridge transformsYou could 'plug in' at home, in restaurants, airport
electrical lines into a 'bridge' between yourterminals, bed and breakfasts, or meeting venues
computer and the net, with strong built-in security- not worrying for a second about the security
and reliability.problems associated with wireless access.
Where can iBridge be Utilized?Another company is developing a global 'HomePlug'
A few hotel chains have elected to use iBridge.protocol that will allow worldwide networking of
You will find the technology installed in Sheratons,computers and appliances. Someday you should
Sandman Hotels, Ramadas, Holiday Inns, Hiltons,be able to program your stereo equipment,
Choice Hotels International, Best Westerns, andkitchen gadgets, televisions, and home surveillance
America's Best Value Inns. It is quick, easy, andsystems from anywhere. Gene Roddenberry (the
relatively inexpensive to install. Older buildings docreator of 'Star Trek') may have foreshadowed
not require expensive cabling renovations.much of the technology we take for granted
Reservations clerks might not be cognizant of thetoday. However, he certainly had no idea that
technology, but they will tell you that guests use itelectricity would eventually be used to link the
and love it.entire world via the World Wide Web.
A few communities have installed iBridge. The©Copyright Kathy Steinemann: This article is
monthly user fee is usually lower than establishedfree to publish only if this copyright notice, the
conventional systems such as dial-up orbyline, and the author's note below (with active
broadband. Condominiums and apartmentlinks) are included.