Channel model simulation technique for Power Line Communications

Power distribution networks are designed for electrical power supply. In Power Line Communication (PLC) system, reflections caused by impedance mismatches deteriorate transmission characteristics in the high frequency. Estimation of Channel characteristics of power lines for PLC makes more efficient for design and operation of PLC networks. The authors propose a method to estimate transmission characteristics between a transmitter and a receiver installed on a distribution network. Propagation characteristics of PLC signals of each distribution equipment is represented using two-port networks as a component model. A channel model is automatically generated from the integration of component models along the topology of distribution network and the locations of a transmitter and a receiver. The proposed method was evaluated using the results of SPICE (Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis) simulation and field data and was proved to be effective.