Abstract
Random Pulse Width Modulation (RPWM) allows controlling the switching signal of power converters in order to reduce the harmonic peaks by spreading the noise spectrum. Currently, many manufacturers of power converters are deploying this modulation scheme in order to comply with Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) test requirements. However, when the converters coexist with Power Line Communication (PLC) systems, such as in Smart Grid (SG) applications, resorting to RPWM needs further investigations since it potentially affects the communication channel by increasing the bit error rate. This possible detrimental effect is investigated in this work, by considering a PLC system for automatic meter reading (AMR) implemented in a SG application. To this end, the model of a complete PLC system is implemented in SIMULINK, and Quadrature Phase Shift Keying (QPSK) modulation is used to model the PLC modems in the communication channel. Results show that, even if the deployment of RPWM techniques may lead to an appreciable reduction/spreading of the peaks in the noise spectrum, it may also lead to an increase of the bit error rate on the PLC system.
Highlights
Communication technologies play a significant role in the Smart Grid (SG) scenario, as they allow the interaction of consumers with energy management systems to ensure the optimal operation of the grid
In Reference [18], it is proven that applying Random Pulse Width Modulation (RPWM) on a AC/DC converter causes more signal errors or delays in the Power line Communication (PLC) system compared to conventional Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
This work is intended to investigate the effects of power converter modulation schemes on PLC system, to understand the conditions under which RPWM can be considered as an effective alternative to conventional modulation schemes
Summary
Communication technologies play a significant role in the Smart Grid (SG) scenario, as they allow the interaction of consumers with energy management systems to ensure the optimal operation of the grid. In Reference [18], it is proven that applying RPWM on a AC/DC converter causes more signal errors or delays in the PLC system compared to conventional Pulse Width Modulation (PWM). This work is intended to investigate the effects of power converter modulation schemes on PLC system, to understand the conditions under which RPWM can be considered as an effective alternative to conventional modulation schemes. To this end, the PLC system is implemented for AMR application in SG, that is to measure the load voltage remotely.
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