초록 ▼

A local area network (60) within a residence or other building, including both wired (5) and non-wired segments (53). The wired segments are based on new or existing wires (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e) in the building, wherein access to the wires is provided by means of outlets (61a, 61d), such as a telephon

A local area network (60) within a residence or other building, including both wired (5) and non-wired segments (53). The wired segments are based on new or existing wires (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e) in the building, wherein access to the wires is provided by means of outlets (61a, 61d), such as a telephone system, electrical power distribution system, or cable television wiring system. The non-wired segments are based on communication using propagated waves such as radio, sound, or light (e.g. infrared). The wired and non-wired segments interface in the outlet, using a module (50) that serves as mediator between the segments. The module can be integrated into the outlet, partially housed in the outlet, or attached externally to the outlet. Such a network allows for integrated communication of data units (24b) connected by wires and data units (24a, 24d) connected without wires.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. A communication apparatus for adapting existing in-building AC power lines for data communication, said apparatus comprising a module electrically and mechanically attachable to a wall-mounted electrical outlet carrying AC electrical power, said module comprising a housing con

What is claimed is: 1. A communication apparatus for adapting existing in-building AC power lines for data communication, said apparatus comprising a module electrically and mechanically attachable to a wall-mounted electrical outlet carrying AC electrical power, said module comprising a housing containing:(a) a powerline modem configured for bidirectional digital data communication to and from power lines leading from the outlet in accordance with a first communications protocol;(b) an RF modem configured for bidirectional wireless digital data communication to and from a receiver inside an area of the building near the outlet in accordance with a second communications protocol; and(c) a protocol adapter coupling the powerline modem and the RF modem.