Broadband PLC access systems and field deployment in European power line networks

Data communications over low voltage power distribution networks provide an alternative and cost-effective last mile access technology. It offers data and voice services to users in residential and business areas. Currently, many field trials with different broadband power line communications systems are running worldwide. This article describes one of these systems for the last mile application in European power line networks. It addresses major field deployment aspects, such as range, coverage, coupling, and intercell interference.