Comtrend PG-9172 G.hn configuration

This procedure assumes that two or more encrypted Comtrend G.hn powerline Ethernet units are already working on G.hn profile “PLC 50MHz with MIMO”, and another unit is being added. This can be done on any operating system with an Ethernet adapter and web browser.

  1. Set the PC Ethernet adapter (temporarily) to a static IP of 192.168.0.6, subnet 255.255.255.0. A gateway or DNS is not required.
  2. Browse to the factory default IP address in a web browser: 192.168.0.5. The default password is admin.
  3. Keep this browser window open, and open a second window.
  4. Unplug the new G.hn unit, and connect the laptop to the primary G.hn unit via Ethernet.
  5. Browse to the primary G.hn IP address (perhaps 192.168.0.5) and click Pair. This makes the primary ready to accept new units.
  6. Plug in via Ethernet to the new G.hn and click Pair. It will promptly require a login again, click Pair and refresh. The same random “domain name”, “pairing password” and “Domain ID DOD” as the primary should be visible.
  7. Plug the primary Ethernet back into the network as it was before. The middle green light should go back on.
  8. On the new unit, the top and bottom green lights should be steady green, with the middle light flickering with Ethernet activity.
  9. Return the PC Ethernet to its previous configuration (probably DHCP). Browsing the web over the new G.hn connection should be possible after resetting the Ethernet adapter (or unplugging/plugging).

Troubleshooting:

  • Ensure the primary unit (the one connected to the actual hardwired Ethernet Internet connection) has node type DOMAIN_MASTER.
  • Ensure all other G.hn units have node type END_POINT.
  • Avoid using power strips or surge suppressors on the power outlets. The units will only work when plugged directly into a wall outlet (GFCI is OK).
  • Only use G.hn profile “PLC 50MHz with MIMO” as this provides maximum range with multiple breaker panels in large houses, since it uses all three powerline wires.
  • NDIM mode should be automatic; after pairing, it will be on the same Domain ID DOD.
  • Use G.hn encryption to prevent unauthorized access to the network from an outlet on the outside (or inside) of the house.
  • Consider setting each device to a unique IPv4 manual address. This allows access to other G.hn adapter configuration pages via a web browser when directly connected to one of them.
  • The manually set IPv4 should NOT be on the same subnet as the network. For some reason, it just won’t work.

Upgrading firmware:

At the time of writing, a Windows 7 PC is required as newer Windows versions are not supported yet. Errors will occur if not using Windows 7. A virtual machine of Windows 7 did not work; it had to be a bare metal Windows 7 installation. Java installation is also required.

It may be necessary to try once or twice, and try resetting power to the PG-9172. Resetting to factory defaults may also help. Upgrading firmware should work after 1-2 tries.

This cannot be done remotely; direct connection to the Ethernet jack of the PG-9172 from the Windows 7 PC is required to upgrade Comtrend PG-9172 firmware.