The new G.hn home networking standard enables several previously separate wireless networking technologies to coexist, while creating a path for migration to G.hn. As a result, the advocacy group representing one of those standards, HomePNA, has decided to combine with the advocacy group for G.hn, the HomeGrid Forum.  

The merged organization, operating under the HomeGrid Forum name, will continue to support both G.hn and HomePNA, with the assumption that those who have deployed HomePNA devices will eventually migrate to G.hn.

With G.hn-based products beginning to hit the market, the merger creates an organization that will guide those planning new networks based on G.hn as well as migrating from earlier network technologies to G.hn.

However, there will also be continued support for the installed base of over 40 million certified HomePNA devices, thereby protecting the investment of both HomePNA equipment manufacturers and their customers, the HomeGrid Forum said.

“HomePNA is a mature, field proven technology, and continues to be selected by large service providers worldwide for IPTV deployments,” said HomePNA president Eran Gureshnik. “Service providers over four continents have achieved great results with HomePNA-based products and we have gained considerable experience in deploying home networks. However, the obvious future direction for all wireline home networking is to migrate to G.hn. Therefore, it made sense for us to merge the HomePNA Alliance with the HomeGrid Forum at this time, providing a clear, strong vision to existing and new customers.”

The merged HomeGrid Forum has more than 70 members, including 28 Service providers, and some of the largest OEMs, ODMs and retailers in the world.

Eric Puetz, AT&T Director of Industry Standards said, “As an active member of both the HomePNA Alliance and the HomeGrid Forum, AT&T sees the merger of these two industry organizations as a great step towards advancing and harmonizing these standards-based home networking technologies.”