Improved Channel Characteristic Measurement System for Broadband Powerline Communication

Conventionally, power line carrier channels are measured and analyzed by intrusive detection using standard measurement instruments. Such instruments are too expensive and bulky to popularize for large-scale application. Proposed herein is a design for a cost-efficient, highly integrated channel characteristic measurement system. Based on IEEE 1901.12018 standard frame structure and signal model, a high-precision estimation algorithm is derived and the mapping relationship of the characteristic quantities to the channel quality levels is established. The system is capable of implementing functions such as measurement of multiple channel characteristics and high-speed data acquisition/ analysis, by means of on-line power line carrier communication modules and upper computer monitoring terminals. It is verified, by tests in the actual power line carrier substation areas, that the system can achieve the same performance level as standard measurement instruments; the channel quality estimates obtained can accurately reflect the carrier communication performance in the substation areas; and can conveniently guide site engineers for troubleshooting and performance optimization.