20-03-2012, 02:17 PM
Powerline Carrier (PLC) Communication Systems
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ABSTRACT
This thesis serves as a general and technical reference on the "Powerline Carrier (PLC) Communication Systems" with the presentation of a comprehensive and detailed analysis on the standards, characteristics, technologies, products and development associated and currently being deployed in the PLC communication systems.
The advantages and benefits of using power line as the medium of data transmission at homes is investigated. Various standards and regulations are highlighted. Summary and comparisons are presented based on the findings of the research done at various European cities on exploring powerline as a communication medium with study of transmission impairments and other factors pertaining to the channel characteristics and performance.
INTRODUCTION
Power line communication (PLC), also called mains communication, power line telecoms (PLT), powerband or power line networking (PLN) or power area networking (PAN) are terms describing several different systems for using power distribution wires for simultaneous distribution of data. The carrier can communicate voice and data by superimposing an analog signal over the standard 50 or 60 Hz alternating current (AC). It includes Broadband over Power Lines (BPL) with data rates sometimes above 1 Mbps and Narrowband over Power Lines with much lower data rates. Traditionally electrical utilities used low-speed power-line carrier circuits for control of substations, voice communication, and protection of high-voltage transmission lines. High-speed data transmission has been developed using the lower voltage transmission lines used for power distribution. A short-range form of power-line carrier is used for home automation and intercoms.
APPLICATIONS OF PLCC
PLCC technology can be deployed into different types of applications in order to provide economic networking solutions. Hence merging with other technologies it proves useful in different areas. These are few key areas where PLC communications are utilized:
a. Transmission & Distribution Network: PLCC was first adopted in the electrical transmission and distribution system to transmit information at a fast rate.
b. Home control and Automation: PLCC technology is used in home control and automation. This technology can reduce the resources as well as efforts for activities like power management, energy conservation, etc.
c. Entertainment: PLCC is used to distribute the multimedia content throughout the home.
d. Telecommunication: Data transmission for different types of communications like telephonic communication, audio, video communication can be made with the use of PLCC technology.
e. Security Systems: In monitoring houses or businesses through surveillance cameras, PLCC technology is far useful.
f. Automatic Meter Reading – Automatic Meter reading applications use the PLCC technology to send the data from home meters to Host Central Station.