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Network Loop When Connecting Multiple EOC-500-POC-POE Devices

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The network loop problem when connecting more than one pair of PLC devices occurs because they all come from the factory configured with the same default network/group code (HomePlugAV). 
With the same key, all PLC devices interconnect with each other through the electrical network. If you connect two or more pairs to the same switch or router, the network signal travels through the Ethernet cable, passes to the electrical network through PLC A1, exits through PLC B1, re-enters through PLC A2, and returns to the switch, creating a broadcast storm and taking down the network. 
 
 
 

Solution: Isolate each PLC pair using different group codes

To prevent the loop, you must change the network password (Network Password) in the Configuration tab of PLC_tool V2.5 so that each pair has its own unique code. 

Step-by-step instructions for configuring the pairs:

  1. Disconnect all PLC devices and work only pair by pair (or device by device).  
  2. Connect Pair 1 to your computer.  
  3. Open PLC_tool.exe and go to the first tab: Configuration.  
  4. In the Network Password field, change the default value (HomePlugAV) to an exclusive identifier for that first pair, for example:    
    • Pair 1:HomePlugAV01
       
  5. Click the Write button (in the Device Operation section on the left) to save the key to the devices.  
  6. Disconnect Pair 1 and connect Pair 2.
  7. Repeat the process, assigning it a different code:
    • Pair 2:HomePlugAV02
       
  8. Do the same for any additional pairs (HomePlugAV03, etc.).   

Why does this resolve the loop?

By assigning a different Network Password to each pair, the electrical network will keep Pair 1 traffic completely isolated and invisible to Pair 2. Only devices that share the same code will be able to communicate with each other, eliminating the physical and logical loop in your switch or router.