Physical and regulatory constraints for communication over the power supply grid

Abstract

This article describes the topology of the power supply network in respect to the deployment of power line communications in different countries. The characteristics of the power line channel are investigated, and the causes of electromagnetic interference from PLC technology in wireless communications services are discussed. Since the radiation originating from PLC cannot be avoided completely by technical means, a solution via standardization is necessary. The current status of worldwide regulation concerning EMC is presented.