SPICE model for the PLC propagation channel in the high frequency range

Broadband Power Line Communication (PLC) technologies represent a main factor of the development of the digital convergence voice-data-video in the home environment. Such technologies use the power line network as a propagation and a communication medium. The performance and the quality of the PLC link depend on the power grid topology and on the connected household electrical appliances according to their impedances and noise levels. In this paper, we propose a new SPICE approach for modelling power cable based on the extraction of high frequency power cable characteristics from S parameters measurements. The variation of each parameter as a function of frequency is expressed in a polynomial form using a least squares method. Then, we propose to integrate the obtained polynomials into a SPICE model by means of controlled SPICE sources and modeling of power cable using the so-called theory of transmission line. Simulation results of a power cable and simple PLC transmission link are given in terms of insertion loss evaluation (S21 parameter) with a specific appliance connected to the power line network. A validation of this SPICE model is performed by means of a comparison between simulation and measurements results of the insertion loss parameter.