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Currently i have my router connected in the 1st floor (with some switches), which is also connected with a 1200Mbps (real bandwith is about 600Mbps) powerline adapter. Another powerline adapter is in my basement; also the main server is there.

I have bought two UPS devices (one for the router and the main switch, one for the server), which should provide power in case of a power failure.

  • Since the powerline adapters require power to run, is it possible, to use them behind each UPS?

  • If it is possible, how does this affect the bandwith?

If relevant: The powerline devices are "TP-Link AV1200".

Essigwurst
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  • Did you try connecting the powerline adapter av1200 to ups? Did it work? Was there any reduction in throughput? I'm asking since I'm planning to get a powerline adapter, while I already have the main router connected to the ups and planning to connect the av600 also to another ups so that internet doesn't drop everytime power drops. – livinston Feb 14 '22 at 01:55
  • @livinston Hey, that topic is like 4 years old ... Well, yes, I bought some if the 1200s, checked the connection both in front and behind the UPS and ... well, the UPS almost filters out everything of the powerline signals. I actually was able to establish a connection, but the throughput was like 50 kbit. – Essigwurst Feb 14 '22 at 04:32
  • I ended up modifying two adapters, so they got their "own" power from the UPS, but don't do this when you don't know what you're doing. – Essigwurst Feb 14 '22 at 04:35
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    Thanks. I also bought one and tried connecting between two different UPS and the connection was pretty much non-existent. Looks like I will have to live with internet dropping when power goes off. – livinston Feb 15 '22 at 06:24

1 Answers1

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It might work, but almost every manufacturer warns against it.

From Netgear:

Can I plug my powerline adapter into a power strip, surge protector, Uninterruptible Power upplies (UPS) or extension cord?

No. NETGEAR does not recommend using power strips, surge protectors, UPS and extension cords with Powerline products. These devices filter out some or all of the high frequency signals used in Powerline communications. Connecting a Powerline to one of these devices can greatly reduce the data rate of transfers, or block communications entirely.

From Tp-Link:

Q: Can Powerline adapters work if they are separated by UPS?

A: No. Usually, UPS has filter function. It can cut the powerline connection. Some air-switches or breaker also have the same function. Besides, some power outlets have surge protector function which can also cut the powerline connection. You’d better not plug powerline adapters to outlets.

I should add that I'm using them with power-strips, and that's also not recommended, but it works and I don't have other option for now. So, I would say you should try and find out. It won't (or shouldn't) damage the devices (keep in mind though, that I'm not taking responsibility if it does!).

Leo Gallego
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