European MIMO PLC field measurements: Noise analysis

Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) techniques allow an unprecedented increase in coverage and throughput for Power Line Communications (PLC), by exploiting the diversity inherent to the three-wire electrical network. To evaluate the performance of such systems, an accurate knowledge of the transmission medium properties is required. This paper presents an experimental study of the MIMO PLC noise characteristics conducted in the framework of the ETSI Specialist Task Force 410. Noise records were collected over the Phase, Neutral and Earth wire as well as through Common Mode propagation up to a frequency of 100 MHz. The analysis conducted in 31 locations in 5 countries revealed PSD noise levels between -168 dBm/Hz and -80 dBm/Hz. In addition, the time domain noise characteristics are analyzed in terms of signal signature and correlation.