Low-Voltage Distribution Line Performance Evaluation for PLC Signal Transmission

Power-line communications over the low-voltage networks is gaining the attention of researchers in both broadband and narrowband application areas. The transmission characteristics of the power-line carrier are very significant in signal propagation. This paper presents field test and simulation results concerning signal transmission on power lines in underground and aerial installations within the CENELEC EN 50065-1 B band. Field test results show the consistency to the transmission line theory and modal wave propagation. The well-known alternate transients program-electromagnetic transients program (ATP-EMTP) is used for the simulation of the transmission path. Simulation results, obtained for different operational cases and configurations, are compared to the actual measurements from field tests, showing satisfactory agreement. Finally, the proposed models are used in further investigations concerning the signal transmission.