Planning Approach Towards Optimal Performance and Cost of G.hn Broadband PLC Access Networks

Abstract

Broadband Power Line Communications (BPL) is going to be widely used for German smart grid applications, besides smart metering. Load management, E-mobility, and smart services can be realized using BPL, due to its high data rate and low latency. In this paper, a planning approach of G.hn BPL access networks is presented. The planning task consists of finding the optimal placement of BPL infrastructure to achieve the maximum performance, and minimal possible costs. The planning approach is sub-divided into three parts, which are the calculation of the channel attenuation, the estimation of the achievable data rate, and the routing algorithm for placement optimization. The calculation of the channel attenuation is realized by considering losses due to cables length, coupling, and energy distribution. Furthermore, performance measurements between two G.hn modems are performed in the lab to show the relation between data rate and attenuation. Finally, Dijkstra's algorithm is selected as a routing mechanism for optimal placement of BPL access devices.