PLCC Channel Modelling and Effect of Physical Parameters on its Bandwidth

Abstract

Power Line Carrier Communication (PLCC) is relatively new candidate in providing communication including particular achievements in Last Mile Technology. This thesis focuses on the end point of the communication i.e. household applications. It analyzes the characteristics of power lines in a household in order to develop a channel model suitable to simulate its behavior for as high-speed data transmission as possible. Such channel characterization is a fundamental step toward designing efficient high-speed communication systems in power distribution networks. In order to estimate the overall communication system behavior, all of its parts are modelled as sub models. The idea behind channel modelling is very straight forward i.e. in a system all of its parts except the channel are supplied with their performance record by their manufacturer. Once the channel characteristics are known, the most suitable system components can be included in the system for a particular application. The channel model presented is also the key to design PLCC compatible modems, transmitter and receivers etc. In this thesis the exchange of data/information among the rooms of a house is the purpose for which power line carrier communication channel has been modeled. The model takes advantage of two port network model along with transmission line theory of power lines. The thesis work primarily concentrates upon attenuation and bandwidth for the modeled channel. Effect of physical parameters like cable diameter, separation between cables and length of cable on the channel’s bandwidth has been included in simulation results.