An OFDMA based modem for powerline communications over the low voltage distribution network

Abstract

The paper describes an OFDMA based modem for multiple access powerline communications (PLC) over the low-voltage distribution network. Relying on a preliminary characterization of the French PLC network, a complete description of the modem is given. It concerns in particular the data frame structure, subcarrier allocation to users, the bit loading algorithm used for symbol coding, synchronization, and equalization. The proposed system is evaluated through simulations carried out using a simplified noise model.