Power Line Communication Technology Research Articles

The Effects of Supraharmonic Distortion in MV and LV AC Grids.

Since the integration of electronic devices and intelligent electronic devices into the power grid, power quality (PQ) has consistently remained a significant concern for system operators and experts. Maintaining high standards of power quality is crucial to preventing malfunctions and faults in electric assets and connected loads. Recently, PQ studies have shifted their focus to a specific frequency range, previously not considered problematic-the supraharmonic 2 kHz to 150 kHz range. This range is not populated by easily recognizable harmonic components of the 50 Hz to 60 Hz mains fundamental, but by a combination of intentional emissions, switching non-linearities and byproducts, and various types of resonances. This paper aims to provide a detailed analysis of the impact of supraharmonics (SHs) on power network operation and assets, focusing on the most relevant documented negative effects, namely power loss and the heating of grid elements, aging of dielectric materials, failure of medium voltage (MV) cable terminations, and interference with equipment and power line communication (PLC) technology in particular. Under some shareable assumptions, limits are derived and compared to existing ones for harmonic phenomena, providing a clear identification of the primary issues associated with supraharmonics and suggestions for the standardization process. Strictly related is the problem of grid monitoring and assessment of SH distortion, discussing the suitability of normative requirements for instrument transformers (ITs) with a specific focus on their accuracy.

Partial-Information-Based Non-Fragile Intermittent Estimator for Microgrids With Semi-Aperiodic DoS Attacks: Gain Stochastic Float

This paper mainly focuses on the problem of nonfragile intermittent estimate tracking in microgrid systems with denial of service (DoS) attacks and gain fluctuation. Different from the common DC/AC microgrid system, the microgrid system studied in this paper involves large grid control and power line communication technology, which is more in line with the actual operating environment. Simultaneously, aiming at the occurrence of network-induced DoS attacks, an intermittent estimator based on partial measure information under cyber-attacks is designed. More importantly, instead of the existing single aperiodic or periodic DoS attacks, the DoS attacks scheme presented in this paper is semi-periodic DoS attacks whose the attack range is aperiodic and the attack width is certain. Furthermore, a variable obeying the Bernoulli distribution is proposed to characterize the randomly occurring gain fluctuation, in which the no-fragile observation is stochastic uncertain. Then, two sufficient conditions of stochastic stability of observation error system of microgrid are devised with the assistance of two different Lyapunov theories. Finally, the rationality of the developed theoretical method is verified by a numerical example.

A review on the empirical characterization of the low voltage distribution grid as a communication channel for power line communications

The electrical grid was not designed for the transmission of communication signals, which are affected by impedance variations, attenuation, and Non-Intentional Emissions (NIEs) in their propagation through the Low Voltage (LV) distribution grid. For this reason, the characterization of the electrical grid as a transmission medium is of vital importance for the correct development of Power Line Communications (PLC) technologies and the optimization of the opportunities offered by the LV distribution grid as a communication infrastructure. This paper deals with the state-of-the-art, challenges to be faced and future work of the characterization based on field trials in real scenarios. First, the features of Narrowband Power Line Communications (NB-PLC) and Broadband Power Line Communications (BB-PLC) technologies are outlined, including a brief comparison between the already developed NB-PLC protocols and providing an overview of the evolution of BB-PLC. Then, the parameters to be measured on the characterization of the LV grid are described, in addition to including the particularities and problems of the measurement systems designed for this aim. Finally, the state of the art and future work concerning the characterization of the outdoor LV grid as a transmission medium based on field trials are gathered.

Frequency Characterization of Medium Voltage Cables for Fault Prevention Through Multi-Valued Neural Networks and Power Line Communication Technologies

Frequency Characterization of Medium Voltage Cables for Fault Prevention Through Multi-Valued Neural Networks and Power Line Communication Technologies

Indoor tracking for smart hospital by a hybrid visible light positioning system

<p class="Abstract">Modern hospital operations and management, i.e., smart hospitals, require pervasive system-wide wireless communication and positioning capabilities. Unfortunately, this cannot be entirely facilitated by existing radio frequency (RF) wireless technologies due to interference concerns in hospitals. We design and implemented a novel hybrid RF-free wireless tracking system utilizing combined visible light communication (VLC) and positioning (VLP), and powerline communication (PLC) technologies to enable future smart hospital operations. This VLC/VLP/PLC tracking system consists of host optical transceivers embedded in light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs and user-end photodetector (PD) optical tags, as well as backbone powerline interface, to form a ubiquitous wireless tracking and communication network connecting all people and equipment throughout all hospital buildings. The new indoor optical-based tracking system was validated via simulation and experiments. Being embedded into the existing LED lighting infrastructure, this hybrid VLC/VLP/PLC tracking system technology is accurate, ultralow cost and environment friendly. Smart hospitals will lead to efficient and affordable healthcare, a revolutionary solution in the human society.</p>

A comparative study of predicting the availability of power line communication nodes using machine learning

Power Line Communication technology uses power cables to transmit data. Knowing whether a node is working in advance without testing saves time and resources, leading to the proposed model. The model has been trained on three dominant features, which are SNR (Signal to Noise Ratio), RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator), and CINR (Carrier to Interference plus Noise Ratio). The dataset consisted of 1000 readings, with 90% in the training set and 10% in the testing set. In addition, 50% of the dataset is for class 1, which indicates whether the node readings are optimum. The model is trained with multi-layer perception, K-Nearest Neighbors, Support Vector Machine with linear and non-linear kernels, Random Forest, and adaptive boosting (ADA) algorithms to compare between statistical, vector-based, regression, decision, and predictive algorithms. ADA boost has achieved the best accuracy, F-score, precision, and recall, which are 87%, 0.86613, 0.9, 0.8646, respectively.

The Effect of Spread Spectrum Modulation on Power Line Communications

Interference in Power Line Communication (PLC) is examined in this paper. PLC is a wired communication technology that provides communication and data transmission over the existing electrical network. It uses the electrical wiring in buildings or the electrical grid to transmit data signals between devices, rather than using dedicated communication cables or wireless signals. Many applications employ PLC technologies, which have the benefit of leveraging existing power connections for both power and data transfer, reducing cost and complexity. These interactions may be observed in contemporary smart grids and automobile power networks, where lengthy cables, switching power supplies and communication links all work together but exacerbate Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) problems. This research examines the effects of spread spectrum methods used to reduce EMI from power converters on PLC systems. Spread Spectrum Modulation (SSM) and its three variants, Sine, Random and Sawtooth, are frequently employed to meet the requirements of electromagnetic compatibility, however, there are some repercussions that may be detrimental to the converter or the rest of the electrical network. These outcomes occur for various modulation algorithm settings and at various frequencies. Measurements are made utilising the Frame Error Rate (FER) value provided by the PLC link system to ascertain the interference produced by a Silicon Carbide (SiC)-based DC-DC converter in order to investigate these concerns and standardise an assessment approach. To examine the effect of SSM on reducing EMI in the frequency domain, the peak index of a CISPR-16 EMI receiver is used.

Distributed Intelligent Electrode Conversion Device Based on Power Line Carrier Communication

This paper develops an intelligent electrode conversion device for distributed high-density resistivity meter. The direct-current (DC) power line communication (PLC) technology is used for developing the instrument. The relay switch array based on a three-wire cable is designed and circuit simulation verification is carried out. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the proposal.

Transmission of Digital Data to Cascaded H-Bridge Converters Through the Power Line

Power line communication (PLC) technologies enable the point-to-point linking between distributed power production and consumption units, thus overlaying enhanced monitoring and control capabilities to the overall power system. A novel PLC method for cascaded H-bridge converters is presented in this article, which enables the transmission of digital data by a remote terminal computer to the individual power modules synthesizing a cascaded H-bridge power converter through their power circuits. The proposed PLC method comprises an integrated framework of a digital data transmitter, receiver, and communication protocol, without using additional coupling circuits, which is suitable for cascaded H-bridge power converters with either a dc or an ac output. Its operation was tested using an experimental prototype consisting of a two-module cascaded H-bridge inverter and a field-programmable gate array device hosting the digital transmitter and receiver units. The experimental results verified the successful transmission of digital parameterization commands from a central terminal computer to the individual power modules of the cascaded H-bridge converter, along with the simultaneous transmission of ac or dc power to the load over the common power cable.

Performance Analysis of Power Line Communication System for Massive Indoor IoT Applications

This study explores the utilization of low-voltage indoor power line communication (PLC) technology within the framework of a split centralized radio access network (C-RAN) architecture, aimed at enhancing 5G indoor mobile coverage for the Internet of Things (IoT). A primary focus of this investigation is the comprehensive evaluation of the system’s performance in terms of radio and access latency. Several critical variables come into play, including available bandwidth, the chosen transmission technology, and the number of wireless IoT devices within the network. An analytical model, employing queuing theory, Markovian models, and stochastic geometry, is formulated to assess the radio-access delay spanning the air interface and the innovative PLC-based front-hauling system proposed in our previous study. The precision of this model is validated through simulations, ensuring that the proposed system effectively meets the stringent latency constraints required by eCPRI, thus contributing to the improvement of 5G indoor mobile coverage for the IoT network.

PLC Communication using OOK/ASK Modulation for Automatic Meter Reading Systems for Smart Metering in Rural Smart Micro-Grids

Smart Grids are in performance an essential role in the current world. The current research efforts on these smart grids involve the advance in the turf of Smart Metering. The most costly, modest and straightforward to feast out abilities lie in Power Line Communications (PLC), which manufactured them useful in electric grids. Smart Metering in smart grid uses PLC technology in various architectures of LV grid. This paper proposes a scheme for a Smart Metering network with PLC expertise consuming on-off keying/amplitude-shift keying (OOK/ASK'S) Modulation. PLC with AMR schemes hand-me-down in energy conveyance system and recording, usages of illicit electricity by sleuthing because of the current network. More particularly in rural areas, the PLC with AMR Systems can minimize theft and illegal use electricity, which raises the power distribution authorities' revenue. Dissolute and Consistent meter analysis gathering with minor mistakes can be accomplished AMR Systems, which removes the requirement of physically construing meters. The anticipated system for current meters has remained in MATLAB/Simulink software.

Efficient Low-Complexity Optimized Channel Estimating Methods for OFDM-Based Low-Voltage Broadband Power Line Communication Systems

Broadband Power Line Communication (BB-PLC) technology enables data transmission for smart grid applications. Nevertheless, channel equalizers are required in the receiver to estimate and compensate for the nonlinear time-variant impulse response and noise interference effects introduced by the BB-PLC channel. In this paper, we append the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm and its proposed improved version to the commonly used Least-Square (LS) and Linear Minimum Mean Square Error (LMMSE) algorithms to advance four new blocktype pilot-aided hybrid channel estimation algorithms for low-voltage Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM)-based BB-PLC systems. Extensive numerical simulation results for four different M-QAM formats (M = 8, 16, 32, 64) show that the proposed algorithms significantly improve the performance of the traditional LS and LMMSE estimators, at least for the parameters of the BB-PLC system studied in this work. In addition, the computational load complexity of the PSO-inspired LMMSE algorithm is lower compared to the conventional LMMSE estimator.

DSSE in European-Type Networks Using PLC-Based Advanced Metering Infrastructure

This paper addressesthe problem of real-time state estimation in European-type four-wire low-voltage distribution networks with advanced metering infrastructure based on power line communication (PLC). The main drawback of this type of infrastructure is its high latency and a sequential data sampling process. Both factors make it difficult to obtain instantaneous values from the smart meters in a timely and adequate manner to estimate the real-time state of the system. This problem may be solved in the future with the deployment of metering systems based on other technologies such as 5G. However, PLC technology prevails in many countries, and is not likely to be replaced in the medium term. In the meantime, a solution is needed to provide acceptable real-time state estimates in low voltage networks, not to hinder the active management of these assets in the context of smart grids. In this work, a solution is proposed that allows estimating the state of the low voltage network with a reasonable accuracy considering the low quality of the measurements provided by the deployed infrastructure. The system is validated using a portion of a real pilot network located in the north of Spain fed by a transformer station with seven feeders.

Upgrading the Power Grid Functionalities with Broadband Power Line Communications: Basis, Applications, Current Trends and Challenges.

This article reviews the basis and the main aspects of the recent evolution of Broadband Power Line Communications (BB-PLC or, more commonly, BPL) technologies. The article starts describing the organizations and alliances involved in the development and evolution of BPL systems, as well as the standardization institutions working on PLC technologies. Then, a short description of the technical foundation of the recent proposed technologies and a comparison of the main specifications are presented; the regulatory activities related to the limits of emissions and immunity are also addressed. Finally, some representative applications of BPL and some selected use cases enabled by these technologies are summarized, together with the main challenges to be faced.

Influence of Random Modulated Power Converter on G3 Power Line Communication

Power Line Communication (PLC) technologies are being used in many applications and offer the advantage of utilizing existing power cables for both power and data transmission, thus minimizing cost and complexity. Nevertheless, PLC technology requires further investigation to solve possible co-existence issues. Indeed, recent studies confirmed that alternative modulation schemes such as Random Pulse Width Modulation (RPWM), applied to switching-mode power converters to minimize conducted emissions, detrimentally interfere with the PLC system. This paper presents an experimental test campaign aimed at investigating the effects of RPWM on the G3-PLC system, with the final goal of understanding the conditions under which RPWM schemes can be considered as an effective alternative to conventional Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) in applications involving PLC systems. In details, the effects of different RPWM parameters such as switching frequency, modulation index, and Random Number Update Rate (RNUR) on the G3-PLC is investigated. In addition, different RPWM schemes such as Random Frequency Modulation (RFM) and Random Pulse Position Modulation (RPPM) are compared in terms of performance so as to highlight which RPWM is best suited to assure coexistence with PLC systems. The impact of RPWM on the communication channel is evaluated in terms of Frame Error Rate (FER), Channel Capacity, and Channel Capacity Loss metrics. Experimental results confirmed that randomly modulated converters with switching frequencies near the G3-PLC bandwidth cause more significant disturbance and possible coexistence issues than the switching frequencies out of this range. Results also show that the modulation index and the RNUR of RPWM have a direct effect on the communication channel. Moreover, a trade-off between Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) reduction and coexistence issues is observed: RFM, which is very effective for EMI reduction, is found to be very disruptive for G3-PLC, compared to alternative random modulation techniques such as RPPM.

Cable Monitoring Using Broadband Power Line Communication.

Power line communication (PLC) is considered one of the possible communication technologies for applications in the field of smart metering, smart substations, smart homes, and recently for the management of renewable resources or micro grid control. This article deals with the use of PLC technology to determine the technical condition of the cable. This coefficient can help distribution system operators (DSO) to assess the condition of their cable routes. In this way, possible cable breakdowns and subsequent power outages can be prevented. The resulting methodology for calculating the coefficient is presented in two specific examples of routes, in which a significant benefit for DSO’s can be found.

DC Power Line Communication (PLC) on 868 MHz and 2.4 GHz Wired RF Transceivers.

Efficient management through monitoring of Li-ion batteries is critical to the progress of electro-mobility and energy storage globally, since the technology can be hazardous if pushed beyond its safety boundaries. Battery management systems (BMSs) are being actively improved to reduce size, weight, and cost while increasing their capabilities. Using power line communication, wireless monitoring, or hybrid data links are one of the most advanced research directions today. In this work, we propose the use of radio frequency (RF) transceivers as a communication unit that can deliver both wired and wireless services, through their superior analog and digital signal processing capability compared to PLC technology. To validate our approach computational simulation and empirical evaluation was conducted to examine the possibility of using RF transceivers on a direct current (DC) bus for wired BMS. A key advantage of this study is that it proposes a flexible and tested system for communication across a variety of network scenarios, where wireless data links over disrupted connections may be enabled by using this technology in short-range wired modes. This investigation demonstrates that the IEEE 802.15.4-compliant transceivers with operating frequencies of 868 MHz and 2.4 GHz can establish stable data links on a DC bus via capacitive coupling at high data rates.

Development of Manhole Monitoring System using the Existing Power Cables as Transmission Line

The realization of condition based maintenance for underground transmission lines is of particular interest to advance the maintenance utilizing the digital transformation. As a problem, it was difficult to develop an inexpensive, secure, and reliable communication method for information transmission from the manhole in a conduit. We have developed a manhole monitoring system by applying power line communication technology, in which a metal shielding layer of power cables is used as a transmission line. This paper describes the development of a system to collect sensor information and camera images using a 154kV and a 66kV XLPE cable installed in a conduit manhole.

A capability of power line communication for HEMS of smart grid on traditional home power grid in Thailand

Abstract This research was conducted on the ability of Power Line Communication (PLC) technology to communicate data for home energy management system through the traditional home electrical grids in Thailand. The study found that the Narrow-Band Power Line Communication (NB-PLC) is most suitable for smart home applications and safe for health of the residents. The results showed that the efficacy of PLC is mostly dependent on the service life time factor of the cables. The regression rate of signal level for the newest electric wire (1–15 years) is 83% lower than the oldest (30–45 years) and 47% lower than the middle life time (16–30 years). Also, the regression rate of signal level for the middle life time was 69% lower than the oldest wire. Whereby we could predict the signal level according to the changing length and service life time of electric cable. In this research, it was found that the carrier frequencies also are influence on the signal level of the power line communication. The signal level of KNX PL110 standard which used the frequency range 105 and 115 kHz is higher than the signal level of IDIS that used the frequency range 63.3 and 74.5 kHz and the regression of signal level of KNX PL110 standard is 68% lower than the IDIS standard. The experimental results also showed that baud rate “2400” is the best for power line communication because it generates more stable signal levels.

Power Line Communication based SmartPlug Prototype for Power Consumption Monitoring in Smart Homes

In order to implement the concepts of smart grid and residential automation, this article presents a SmartPlug prototype for power consumption monitoring in smart homes. It is a device that, when coupled to the sockets, measures electrical voltage and current, and thereafter provides the power consumption to the consumer using the power line communication (PLC) technology. With the knowledge of the consumption, provided by the smart metering, of each outlet, the consumer is able to establish the concept of segmented energy consumption, which is an important allied of energy saving and power demanding. With commercial current and voltage sensors, the SmartPlug was built using the Arduino platform and the end user interface was created using the open source software ScadaBR. After performance evaluation in a laboratory, tests in real electrical plants were performed to validate the prototype, considering bit rates and signal spectrum in the PLC systems.