1. Introduction
1.1 Product Overview
The TP-Link AV500 2-Port Powerline Adapter with Power Outlet Pass-Through Starter Kit (TL-PA4020P KIT) utilizes your home's existing electrical wiring to extend your internet connection. This allows you to create a stable, high-speed wired network in any room without the need for new cables, making it ideal for devices such as smart TVs, game consoles, and desktop computers.
1.2 Package Contents
- Two (2) TP-Link AV500 2-Port Powerline Adapters with Power Outlet Pass-Through
- Two (2) Ethernet Cables
- Quick Installation Guide
2. Setup Guide
Follow these steps to set up your TP-Link Powerline Adapter Kit.
2.1 Step 1: Plug in the First Adapter
- Plug one powerline adapter directly into a wall outlet near your internet router. Avoid using power strips or extension cords, as they can degrade performance.
- Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to a LAN port on your router and the other end to an Ethernet port on the powerline adapter.
Illustration showing the first powerline adapter connected to a router and plugged directly into a wall outlet.
2.2 Step 2: Plug in the Second Adapter
- Plug the second powerline adapter directly into a wall outlet in the room where you need internet access.
- Connect one end of the second Ethernet cable to an Ethernet port on this powerline adapter and the other end to your device (e.g., computer, smart TV, game console).
2.3 Step 3: Verify Connection
Wait for the Powerline LED on both adapters to turn solid green. A solid green light indicates a successful powerline network connection. If the Powerline LED is off or blinking, refer to the Troubleshooting section.
2.4 Pairing Adapters (Optional)
The adapters in the kit are typically pre-paired. If they do not connect automatically, or if you are adding new adapters to an existing powerline network, you may need to pair them manually:
- Press the Pair button on the first adapter for one second. The Power LED will begin to blink.
- Within two minutes, press the Pair button on the second adapter for one second. The Power LED will also begin to blink.
- When the Powerline LED on both adapters turns solid green, they are successfully paired and connected.
3. Operation
3.1 LED Indicators
The adapters feature LED indicators to show their current status:
| LED Indicator | Status | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Power | Solid On | The adapter is powered on. |
| Off | The adapter is powered off. | |
| Powerline | Solid Green | The adapter is connected to a powerline network. |
| Off | The adapter is not connected to a powerline network. | |
| Blinking | The adapter is in pairing mode. | |
| Ethernet | Solid On | An Ethernet device is connected. |
| Off | No Ethernet device is connected. | |
| Blinking | Data is being transmitted via the Ethernet port. |
3.2 Power Saving Mode
The adapters are designed to be energy-efficient. They automatically detect the activity status of connected devices and reduce power consumption when no data transmission is occurring, helping to save energy.
4. Maintenance
- Keep the powerline adapters in a dry environment, away from excessive heat sources, direct sunlight, and moisture.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified personnel.
- Clean the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the adapters; do not block ventilation openings.
5. Troubleshooting
5.1 No Powerline Connection (Powerline LED is off)
- Ensure both powerline adapters are plugged directly into wall outlets, not into power strips, surge protectors, or extension cords. These devices can filter out the powerline signal.
- Try plugging the adapters into different wall outlets within the same room or on the same electrical circuit to rule out specific outlet issues.
- Verify that the electrical circuits used by the adapters are on the same electrical meter. Powerline devices typically do not work across different electrical phases or meters.
- If the issue persists, try manually pairing the adapters as described in the "Pairing Adapters (Optional)" section of the Setup Guide.
5.2 Slow Speed
- Avoid plugging powerline adapters into outlets near high-power consuming appliances such as washing machines, refrigerators, or microwave ovens, as these can generate electrical noise and interfere with the powerline signal.
- Ensure the electrical wiring in your home is in good condition. Older or faulty wiring can significantly degrade powerline performance.
- The advertised maximum speed of 500Mbps is a theoretical maximum. Actual speeds will vary based on your network environment, electrical interference, distance between adapters, and other factors.
- If possible, try moving the adapters to different outlets to find a clearer electrical path.
6. Specifications
- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 500 Megabits Per Second (Mbps)
- Hardware Interface: Ethernet
- Compatible Devices: Desktop, Laptop, Smart TV, Game Console
- Ports: 2 x Ethernet Ports per adapter
- Dimensions (L x W x H): Approximately 2.3 x 3.7 x 1.7 inches (58 x 94 x 43 mm)
- Operating System Compatibility: Linux, Windows 10, Windows Vista, Windows XP
- Features: Integrated Power Outlet Pass-Through, Power Saving Mode
7. Warranty and Support
This TP-Link product is backed by an industry-leading 2-year warranty, providing assurance of quality and reliability.
For technical assistance, product information, or to access additional resources, please visit the official TP-Link support website or contact their customer service. Unlimited 24/7 technical support is available to help you with any queries or issues you may encounter.
TP-Link Support Website: https://www.tp-link.com/us/support/
