Factors influencing broadband transmission characteristics of underground low-voltage distribution networks

Abstract

The established transmission analysis, already used to treat other overhead distribution and transmission power grid networks in Lazaropoulos and Cottis (2009, 2012), is now implemented to examine the factors influencing transmission characteristics of low-voltage/broadband over power lines (LV/BPL) channels associated with underground power distribution networks. The novelty of this study is threefold. First, the refined multidimensional chain scattering matrix or T-matrix (TM2) method suitable for underground LV/BPL network configurations is adopted in order to determine their end-to-end channel attenuation. The underground LV/BPL transmission channel is investigated with regard to its spectral behaviour and end-to-end signal attenuation. Second, it is found that the above features depend drastically on the frequency, the physical properties of the cables used, the end-to-end – ‘LOS’ – distance, number and the electrical length of the branches encountered along the end-to-end BPL signal propagation. Third, special focus is given on the impact of the coupling scheme applied and the termination and the multiplicity of the branches encountered along the end-to-end transmission path.