Devolo MicroLink dLAN ADSL Modem User manual

MicroLink
®
dLAN® duo

© 2005 devolo AG, Aachen (Germany)
While the information in this manual has been compiled with great care, it may not be deemed an assurance of product
characteristics. devolo shall be liable only to the degree specified in the terms of sale and delivery.
The reproduction and distribution of the documentation and software supplied with this product and the use of its contents
is subject to written authorization from devolo. We reserve the right to make any alterations that arise as the result of
technical development.
You can find all declarations and certifications of compliance for the products, as long as they were available at the time
of publication, in the appendix of this documentation.
Trademarks
Windows®and Microsoft®are registered trademarks of Microsoft, Corp.
Mac®is a registered trademark of Apple Computer, Inc.
Linux®is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.
HomePlug®is a registered trademark of HomePlug Power Alliance.
The devolo logo is a registered trademark of devolo AG. All other names mentioned may be trademarks or registered trade-
marks of their respective owners.
Subject to change without notice. No liability for technical errors or omissions.
devolo AG
Sonnenweg 11
52070 Aachen
Germany
www.devolo.com
Aachen, March 2005
41592/0305

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Preface
Thank you for placing your trust in this devolo product.
The devolo MicroLink dLAN duo is a HomePlug adapter for data communica-
tions over the household electrical power supply network. With its Ethernet
and USB ports, the dLAN adapter lets you set up or expand a home network
easily and economically. Functions such as copying or moving files, using
shared printers or accessing the Internet are all realized via existing power
lines in your home. With the MicroLink dLAN duo, any electrical socket in
your home can be used as a network connection—from the basement to the
attic.
About this manual
This manual contains all the information you need about your MicroLink dLAN
duo from devolo. It tells you how to set up and install your dLAN adapter. The
'All about the home network' chapter also contains examples of applications
for the MicroLink dLAN duo and general information on networks.
Exacting manufacturing standards and stringent quality control are the basis
for high product standards and consistent quality to ensure your fullest satis-
faction with this MicroLink dLAN duo.
This documentation was compiled by several members of our staff from a
variety of departments in order to ensure you the best possible support when
using your product.
Additional information in the Internet at 'www.devolo.com'
Our online services (www.devolo.com) is available to you around the clock
should you have any queries or require any further support.

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Package contents
Please ensure that the delivery is complete before beginning with the instal-
lation of your MicroLink dLAN duo:
MicroLink dLAN duo
Ethernet cable (3 m)
USB cable (5 m)
Printed manual
CD with drivers, online documentation and application software
devolo reserves the right to change the package contents without prior
notice.

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Contents
1Introduction ............................................................................................7
1.1 What exactly is dLAN? ..................................................................7
1.2 What does the MicroLink dLAN duo offer you?............................8
1.3 Protect your child in the Internet with
OrangeBox Web Home ..................................................................9
2Connection and installation .............................................................. 10
2.1 System requirements...................................................................10
2.2 Connection and display elements ...............................................11
2.3 Connecting the MicroLink dLAN duo...........................................12
2.3.1 ...via Ethernet ...............................................................12
2.3.2 ...via USB......................................................................12
3All about the home network ..............................................................15
3.1 Configuring the computer............................................................15
3.1.1 Windows 98 and Windows Me ................................... 15
3.1.2 Windows 2000 .............................................................15
3.1.3 Windows XP.................................................................16
3.2 Examples of applications.............................................................17
3.2.1 Internet ADSL workstation solution—option 1...........17
3.2.2 Home networking—option 2 ....................................... 18
3.2.3 Home networking—option 3 ....................................... 18
3.2.4 Home networking—option 4 ....................................... 19
3.3 Worth knowing ............................................................................ 19
4devolo MicroLink dLAN Software....................................................21
4.1 Overview of the devolo software................................................21
4.1.1 MicroLink dLAN Configuration Wizard ........................ 21
4.1.2 MicroLink Informer.......................................................21
4.1.3 MicroLink EasyShare....................................................21
4.2 Installing the devolo MicroLink dLAN Software.........................21
4.3 Configuration of the dLAN network using the
MicroLink dLAN Configuration Wizard........................................22
4.4 Overview in the dLAN network with the MicroLink Informer.....23
4.5 Communication in the dLAN using the MicroLink EasyShare.....24
4.5.1 Configuration................................................................25

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5Appendix ............................................................................................... 27
5.1 Technical data .............................................................................27
5.2 Declaration of conformity............................................................29
5.3 Warranty conditions ................................................................... 30

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1 Introduction
This chapter gives you an overview of the new dLAN technology and a brief
introduction to the MicroLink dLAN duo.
1.1 What exactly is dLAN?
There is now a new alternative to the well-known wired LAN and Wireless
LAN network technologies currently used in home networking: dLAN (direct
LAN, i.e. directly networked). dLAN is home networking using the electric
wiring already installed in the building.
Cost factor and transmission quality
dLAN is an economical and easy-to-use networking technology. You don't
need to lay cables and you can connect to the home network at every power
point.
The dLAN technology modulates and demodulates additional frequencies on
the power lines. Modulation and demodulation is a well-known and proven
method of data transmission, which has been in use in other applications for
a number of years. Now it is used to set up Internet and network accesses in
the home or office. Depending on the damping factor, distances of up to 200
meters can be covered.
With a maximum data transmission rate of 14 Mbps and symmetrical upload
and download, the dLAN technology is equivalent to classical Ethernet net-
working solutions and is faster than the current wireless standard WIFITM for
home applications. Depending on the line quality, bandwidths of 6 to 8 Mbps
are possible in practice—quite sufficient for extending the DSL connection
to all rooms.
Data security and radiation
The power meter in the building acts as a physical barrier against unwanted
access from outside. Furthermore, for the sake of security, the DESpro
encryption is used to guarantee secure data transfer within the network.
dLAN devices from devolo meet the stringent EU industrial standards and
comply with the current standards for electromagnetic radiation.

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1.2 What does the MicroLink dLAN duo offer you?
Powerful and flexible
Ethernet or USB? This question no longer arises with the devolo MicroLink
dLAN duo. Featuring both Ethernet and USB ports, the MicroLink dLAN duo
combines the features of dLAN Ethernet and dLAN USB devices. The result is
new freedom and flexibility: it's no longer necessary to settle on one or the
other connection technology. For example, PCs or laptops can be integrated
into a dLAN network using either of the ports—depending on which one is
available.
You can find examples of possible networks and general information in the
chapter 'All about the home network'.
Simple installation
Connect the MicroLink dLAN duo to the computer or the device with the
Ethernet or USB cable
The MicroLink dLAN duo can be connected either via Ethernet or USB ports.
If both are installed, USB has priority.
Connect the MicroLink dLAN duo to the power outlet
Install the devolo drivers (for USB connection)
Install the devolo MicroLink dLAN Software
Done!
Ethernet and USB port
The MicroLink dLAN duo has
an Ethernet port for connecting to a device in the home network (e.g. PC,
notebook, modem, router, switch etc.),
a USB output for connection to a computer in the home network with a
USB port,
a standard power plug for connection to a power outlet.
Status display
The indicator lights (LEDs) of your MicroLink dLAN duo show the connection
status and allow the data transmission to be checked. The MicroLink dLAN
duo has 6 indicator lights.

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1.3 Protect your child in the Internet with
OrangeBox Web Home
The Internet has become an everyday tool for everybody: Large or small,
young or old, for private use or for business—the whole world is using the
worldwide web as a platform for exchanging information. But there are also
potential threats which parents need to protect their children from.
The OrangeBox Web Home software, which is supplied with the dLAN
adapter, provides more protection for your child in the Internet. It allows you
to set filters that allow Internet pages to be accessed or blocked. Internet
access can even be blocked completely. You will find more information about
this product under www.friendly-internet.com.

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2 Connection and installation
This chapter shows you how to connect the devolo MicroLink dLAN duo. It
also contains a brief description of the installation procedure under Windows
98, Windows Me, Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
2.1 System requirements
Your computer must meet the following requirements to operate with your
MicroLink dLAN duo:
Operating systems: Windows 98, Windows Me, Windows 2000, Win-
dows XP, Linux, Mac OS X (only for Ethernet connection) or all TCP/IP
operating systems
Ethernet port
Note that your computer or the device to which you want to connect the
MicroLink dLAN duo must have an Ethernet port, i.e. a network card or a net-
work adapter.
USB port
Note that the computer to which the MicroLink dLAN duo is to be connected
must have a USB port.

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2.2 Connection and display elements
The MicroLink dLAN duo adapter has six indicator lights (LEDs) as well as an
Ethernet and a USB port:
ETH/USB
100/Act: Lit while 100 Mbps data transfer rate is active.
10/Act: Lit while 10 Mbps data transfer rate is active.
USB: Steady when connected to USB.
dLAN
Power: Steady when connected to power.
Act: Flashes when data is being sent or received over the electrical
lines.
Link: Steady when connected to the dLAN network.
Ethernet port: This is the connection point on the MicroLink dLAN duo
adapter for connecting it to a computer or another device with the net-
work cable (included).
USB port: This is the connection point on the MicroLink dLAN duo
adapter for connecting it to a computer with the USB cable (included).

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2.3 Connecting the MicroLink dLAN duo...
In this section, we will show you how to connect the MicroLink dLAN duo—
either via Ethernet or USB. If both are installed, USB has priority.
Before connecting the MicroLink dLAN duo please note its security ID and
keep it available for configuration of the network. The security ID can be
found on the bottom of the dLAN adapter.
2.3.1 ...via Ethernet
햲With the computer running connect the MicroLink dLAN duo adapter to
an Ethernet port of the computer with the network cable (included).
햳Plug the MicroLink dLAN duo adapter into a convenient power socket.
햴Then install the devolo MicroLink dLAN Software. For more information
see the 'devolo MicroLink dLAN Software' chapter.
No drivers are required for installation of the MicroLink dLAN duo adapter.
2.3.2 ...via USB
햲With the computer running connect the MicroLink dLAN duo adapter to a
USB port of the computer with the USB cable (included).
햳Plug the MicroLink dLAN duo adapter into a convenient power socket.
햴Now install the drivers in the desired operating system.
햵Then install the devolo MicroLink dLAN Software. For more information
see the 'devolo MicroLink dLAN Software' chapter.
Driver installation...
The MicroLink dLAN duo supports plug&play. This makes installation much
easier. Windows wizards guide you through the installation process and
request the required data.
...under Windows 98
햲Put the devolo product CD in your CD-ROM drive.
햳Windows starts the hardware wizard and reports that new hardware has
been detected. Confirm by clicking Next.

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햴Windows provides you with two options for searching for drivers. Select
the 'Search for the best driver for your device (Recommended)' option and
click Next.
햵The correct driver can be found on the devolo product CD. Activate the
'CD-ROM drive' option and deactivate all other boxes. Then click Next.
The driver installation is started.
햶Click Next to continue the installation.
You may be prompted to insert the Windows 98 CD. Insert it into your CD-
ROM drive and click OK.
햷By clicking Finish you'll exit the installation.
햸Click Yes to any prompts to restart the computer.
...under Windows Me
햲Put the devolo product CD in your CD-ROM drive.
햳Windows starts the hardware wizard and reports that new hardware has
been detected. Confirm by clicking Next.
햴Windows provides you with two options for searching for drivers. Select
the 'Automatic search for a better driver (Recommended)' option and click
Next. The driver installation is started.
햵By clicking Finish you'll exit the installation.
햶Confirm any prompts to restart the computer with Yes.
...under Windows 2000
햲Put the devolo product CD in your CD-ROM drive.
햳Windows 2000 starts the hardware wizard and reports that new hard-
ware has been detected. Click Next.
햴The wizard offers two options to search for the driver. Select the 'Search
for a suitable driver for my device (recommended)' option and click Next.
햵The correct driver can be found on the devolo product CD. Activate the
'CD-ROM drives' option and deactivate all other boxes. Then click Next.
The driver installation is started.
햶Click Next to continue the installation.

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햷By clicking Finish you'll exit the installation.
...under Windows XP
햲Put the devolo product CD in your CD-ROM drive.
햳Windows XP starts the hardware wizard and reports that new hardware
has been detected.
햴In the following dialog window activate the option 'Install the software
automatically (Recommended)'. Click Next. The driver installation is
started.
햵By clicking Finish you'll exit the installation.
In the next chapter 'All about the home network' you can find useful informa-
tion on networks. For more information on the installation of the devolo
MicroLink dLAN Software please see the 'devolo MicroLink dLAN Software'
chapter.

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3 All about the home network
This chapter contains important and useful information on networks—from
the configuration of your computer to examples of applications to general
tips.
3.1 Configuring the computer
Now that you have successfully connected and installed your devolo dLAN
adapter, we show you how to configure your computer correctly and how to
check existing settings.
3.1.1 Windows 98 and Windows Me
햲Open the properties of the LAN connection on the connected computers
by selecting Start  Settings  Control Panel  Network.
햳Click the entry for the TCP/IP protocol of the network adapter and on
Properties. Enable the option 'Obtain an IP address automatically'. You
can ignore all other options: they either remain empty or retain their
default settings. Close the dialogs with OK.
If you cannot find an entry similar to 'TCP/IP' or 'TCP/IP -> Network Adapter
Name' or 'Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)', you must install the TCP/IP protocol.
Under Add select 'Protocol' and click Add again. In the next dialog box under
'Manufacturer' select 'Microsoft' and under 'Network Protocol' select 'TCP/
IP'.
햴If you use a router for Internet access, you will still need to configure it,
because the router dials into the Internet, not the computer. Under Start
 Settings  Control Panel  Internet Options select the 'Connec-
tions' tab and enable the 'Never dial a connection' option. Close the dia-
logs with OK.
3.1.2 Windows 2000
햲Open the properties of the LAN connection on the connected computers
by selecting Start  Settings  Control Panel  Network and
Dial-up Connections. Click with the right mouse button on the corre-
sponding LAN connection and select 'Properties'.

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햳Click the entry for the TCP/IP protocol of the network adapter and on
Properties. Enable the option 'Obtain an IP address automatically'. You
can ignore all other options: they either remain empty or retain their
default settings. Close the dialogs with OK.
If you cannot find an entry similar to 'TCP/IP' or 'TCP/IP -> Network Adapter
Name' or 'Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)', you must install the TCP/IP protocol.
Under Install select 'Protocol' and click Add. In the next dialog box select
'Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)' and confirm with OK.
햴If you use a router for Internet access, you will still need to configure it,
because the router dials into the Internet, not the computer. Under Start
 Settings  Control Panel  Internet Options select the 'Connec-
tions' tab and enable the 'Never dial a connection' option. Close the dia-
logs with OK.
3.1.3 Windows XP
The Windows XP start menu can be configured in different ways. See the
Windows XP documentation for more information.
햲Open the properties of the LAN connection on the connected computers.
Select Start  Control Panel  Network and Internet Connections
 Network Connections. Click with the right mouse button on the cor-
responding LAN connection and select 'Properties'.
햳Click the entry for the TCP/IP protocol of the network adapter and on
Properties. Enable the option 'Obtain an IP address automatically'. You
can ignore all other options: they either remain empty or retain their
default settings. Close the dialogs with OK.
If you cannot find an entry similar to 'TCP/IP' or 'TCP/IP -> Network Adapter
Name' or 'Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)', you must install the TCP/IP protocol.
Under Install select 'Protocol' and click Add. In the next dialog box select
'Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)' and confirm with OK.
햴If you use a router for Internet access, you will still need to configure it,
because the router dials into the Internet, not the computer. Under Start
 Control Panel  Network and Internet Connections  Internet
Options select the 'Connections' tab and enable the 'Never dial a con-
nection' option. Close the dialogs with OK.

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Other Internet applications such as e-mail clients may also need this informa-
tion. This generally involves changing a setting with a name like 'Connect to'
or similar to 'LAN'.
3.2 Examples of applications
This section demonstrates some current application scenarios.
3.2.1 Internet ADSL workstation solution—option 1
Workstation with Internet connection over an ADSL modem
In- house
power supply
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet)
MicroLink ADSL Fun LAN or
another ADSL modem
Splitter
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)

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3.2.2 Home networking—option 2
Networking several workstations with one Internet connection over a LAN
router and an ADSL modem
3.2.3 Home networking—option 3
Networking several workstations with one Internet connection over an ADSL
router
Splitter
MicroLink ADSL Fun LAN
or another ADSL modem
MicroLink LAN Router
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet)
In- house
power supply
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
Network
Terminator
MicroLink ISDN Router
MicroLink dLAN
duo (via Ethernet)
In- house
power supply
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
MicroLink dLAN
ISDN Router

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3.2.4 Home networking—option 4
Networking several workstations with one Internet connection over an ISDN
router
3.3 Worth knowing
Network volume
The maximum number of dLAN adapters in a single-family house is theoreti-
cally 253 connections, but in practice no more than 10 devices should be
transferring data simultaneously.
Compatibility
The devolo dLAN adapter are compatible to all other devolo LAN products, to
all devices that comply with the IEEE 802.3 standard and to other HomePlug
devices.
Network security
Normally the electric meter forms a physical barrier, i.e. only devices con-
nected to this meter can be part of the network and benefit from the phase
coupling. Furthermore, a dLAN adapter's internal device encryption is used
which can be individually configured with the MicroLink dLAN Configuration
Wizard. For more information see the 'devolo MicroLink dLAN Software'
chapter.
Network
Terminator
MicroLink ISDN Router
MicroLink dLAN
duo (via Ethernet)
In- house
power supply
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
MicroLink dLAN duo
(via Ethernet or USB)
MicroLink dLAN
ISDN Router

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How to use passwords correctly
You can improve your security substantially by following some important
rules regarding the use of passwords.
Keep your passwords as secret as possible.
Never write a password down. Popular, but completely unsuitable
storage options include notebooks, wallets and text files in comput-
ers. Do not pass on your password unnecessarily.
Select a random password.
Use random strings of letters and numbers. Passwords from common
language usage are not secure.
Change the password regularly or immediately if you feel it has been
compromised.
Passwords should be changed as frequently as possible. This
requires a little effort, but increases your security considerably.
Even if only the slightest indication of a leak exists, the password
should be changed.
For the sake of security, the DESpro encryption is used. It can be individually
configured with the MicroLink dLAN Configuration Wizard. For more informa-
tion see the 'devolo MicroLink dLAN Software' chapter.
You can find more answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) at our home
page www.devolo.com.