1. What is plug-in networking?
A network can be created in a home or office via the regular electrical wall outlets using an AsokaUSA appliance called a PlugLink USB Bridge. The PlugLink USB Bridge plugs into the wall and the computer, scanner or printer is connected to the Bridge via a USB line. Data is accessed via the regular electrical wiring of the home.

2. What makes it better than other types of home networking?
Home plug-in networking costs less, is more reliable and easier to use than either DSL or wireless solutions. DSL has installation charges, monthly connection charges of at least $40 per month and requires running cables throughout the house or office. Wireless networks for homes will require upgrades on many computers and interference from common household appliances often occurs.

3. What makes the AsokaUSA solution so great?
An AsokaUSA PlugLink network can be installed in minutes by anyone familiar with PC computers. The only cost is that of purchasing the appliance—there are no monthly fees and no need to upgrade computers.

4. Why haven’t I heard about plug-in networking if it is such a great solution?
The advantages of home networking have been an open secret in the networking community, but industry standards for interoperability had not yet been fully agreed upon. As a fully-funded subsidiary of Asoka Inc., of Taiwan, AsokaUSA has had the financial wherewithal to develop a product in advance of industry standards agreements. The HomePlug Powerline Alliance, backed by companies like Cisco Systems and Motorola, began certifying products in April, 2002 and among the first certified are the AsokaUSA PlugLink USB Bridge and PlugLink Ethernet Bridge.

5. Who are your competitors?
Take a look at http://www.homeplug.org/index_basic.html, the Home Network Alliance website for details on other suppliers. We feel confident we’ll measure up to any comparisons.

7. Is it really as easy to install as it sounds?
The best part about home plug-in networking is that you plug the appliance into the wall, the computer in to the appliance, spend a few minutes configuring the system, and Voila! You have a home network in time for lunch.

8. What happens when the system breaks down-who services it?
If one of the appliances fails, there is no waiting for a DSL service representative and no disconnecting your computer for repairs to wireless hardware. The PlugLink box can be disconnected, leaving the rest of the network intact. Manuals and technical support are available on the AsokaUSA website and via telephone at 1-650-873-3280.

9. Is the product on the market now?
No, although plug-in technology is well documented, production could not be started without standards approval. AsokaUSA can supply trial appliances to journalists and can begin production immediately upon receiving a firm order from a retailer or computer manufacturer.

10. Will the appliance be available in stores or will I have to buy a new computer?
AsokaUSA is developing distribution channels both through retailers and through computer manufacturers. You will be able to buy appliances to network your current computer, and we anticipate home plug-in networking components will be included in new computers in the future.