The BPL system requires a connection to the utility or Internet backbone, near a substation, through a device known as an “injector” or “head-end,” which converts the digital data stream into radio frequency (RF) signals. These signals travel down the MV power lines to repeaters, which receive and boost the data signals. These repeaters can provide a data connection for devices such as RTUs, voltage and/or current sensors, meter data collection devices, cameras, etc. The repeaters are installed along the circuit all the way to the circuit’s end, where, in many cases another circuit adjoins, typically with an open switch between the two circuits.

Multiple factors influence the performance of BPL devices installed on MV distribution networks. Two of the most common are signal attenuation ( weakening of the signal as it propagates along the power line) and line noise, which can impede the BPL device’s data throughput and link reliability. BPL equipment is designed to accommodate variations in line quality (from the data communications perspective), which translate into variations in noise and to some extent attenuation. Noise is the more dynamic property of the two, but both can cause problems for the equipment if not managed properly.

MV Power Line Noise

Multiple noise sources may exist on an MV power line. They can be continuously present (static) or appear and disappear randomly (time variant). Most of the noise sources can be grouped into four categories:

1. Non-synchronous noise (RF equip-
ment such as TV or radio stations);
2. Noise due to single or multiple
impulse(s), (e.g. lightning, arcing);
3. Electric or electronic equipment
(noise synchronous with 60 Hz
power frequency); and

4. Noise due to loads on the line (e.g. universal motor).

All the different noise types can impact BPL data communications. Particularly, the first two sources tend to impact data communications more on MV lines, either because they originate on the MV side or are induced onto the MV power line. (The line acts like a huge antenna

and picks up all kinds of RF energy from radio and TV stations.) These noise sources interfere with the frequency ranges where the BPL equipment operates ( 2-30 MHz). The latter two sources originate on the LV side and are, for the most part, attenuated through the LV/

 

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