Analysis tool for temporal evolution of frame error rate performance in narrowband PLC

Abstract

G3-PLC is a transmission system using the power line channel [1]. This technology, as others using the power lines as the communication medium, is very interesting for power utilities as operators can use their own infrastructure for communication purposes. Nevertheless, as power lines were not initially designed to carry data, the performance of a communication may vary depending on many parameters (load, weather conditions, season, etc.). To be able to use the power line medium, tools allowing a power utility to determine the performance of a communication using a specific link must be developed. In this paper, an analysis tool capable of monitoring the performance indicators of a G3-PLC transmission throughout the communication will be presented. The tool was used in a field test in Mons, Belgium, to obtain real-cases results. The analysis method applied to the results is presented in this paper.