Direct sequence spread spectrum a proven technique for distribution line carrier systems

A joint trial with Northern Electric, Vynckier and GEC Meters has been carried out to evaluate the technology required to implement a remote, tokenless prepayment meter. The provision of a customer display unit permitted additional services to be offered. A reliable and cost effective means is required to utilise the supply network as a viable communication medium. The authors describe an advanced wide band modulation technique based upon direct sequence spread spectrum (DS³) technology. The new method has proven to be highly effective in tests conducted both in field trials, in different countries, and in the laboratory under simulated conditions