Broadband data transmission through power lines

This paper considers the broadband telecommunications technology used to transfer data via existing electrical power infrastructure. The paper explains the principle of communication via power lines (Power Line Communications, PLC) and closely examines the benefits of using this technology. The emphasis is on selecting a modulation scheme for the design of PLC systems and finding the solution for problems with electromagnetic compatibility (electromagnetic compability, EMC) in accordance with European standards. The paper concludes with the scheme of multiplexing multiple applicants in the frequency domain (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing, OFDM), optimized for broadband transmission of high-speed data lines on the electricity network using frequencies below 100 MHz. The representation of the PLC in power systems and companies is shown in a practical overview alongside with an insight into the commercialization of technology in the world. The paper also points out the advantages of PLC in relation to other technology, and considers the direction of its future development.