Applicability of narrowband power line communication in an LVDC distribution network

It has been shown that high-frequency (HF) band power line communication (PLC) is a feasible data transmission method for a smart grid concept, namely for a low-voltage direct current (LVDC) electricity distribution system. However, because of the signal attenuation, the communication distances in the LVDC grid are limited with the HF band PLC. Hence, the new narrowband (NB) PLC should also be tested for the concept. In this paper, the PLC channel analysis in the LVDC system is carried out for the novel NB PLC technology, that is, the G3-PLC in the frequency band of 150-490 kHz. For the channel analysis, channel gain and noise signals from the terminals of the PLC couplers designed for the NB PLC are measured. The performance of the G3-PLC is analyzed theoretically and by communication tests. The noise voltages are measured, and communication tests are carried out in the LVDC laboratory system and in an LVDC field installation grid. The results show that NB PLC could be suitable for the concept.