Knowledge of PLC applications, standards, challenges and solutions for reliable communications over power line. Main differences w.r.t. wireless communication systems.

Lectures and some simulation exercise using Matlab and experimental laboratory example.Possibility of carrying out a small project with a PLC application focus.

This class deals with Power Line Communication (PLC) systems, systems that convey information through the power delivery infrastructure. It covers:application scenarios of PLC (such as in-home, in-vehicle, industrial and smart energy grids)channel characterization and modeling (statistical methods and machine learning methods) PLC physical layer techniquessignal processing techniques in the context of PLCthe main aspects of the MAC layermain standards and commercial systems. In more detail, the important topics of statistical channel and noise modeling will be illustrated. Similarities and differences with the wireless channel behavior and modeling will be discussed. The main challenges of physical layer design for both narrow-band (NB-PLC) and broad-band PLC (BB-PLC) to encompass the presence of channel attenuation and frequency selectivity, interference, and various noise sources will be addressed. In particular, focus will be given to single carrier modulation approaches, filter bank modulation approaches (as OFDM, DWMT, FMT) and ultra wide band techniques. The pros and cons of different transmission techniques will be analyzed and specific aspects that make PLC different from wireless communications will be emphasized. Some aspects related to the MAC protocols and signal processing for cooperative systems (as relaying) to enhance coverage and capacity will be presented. Finally, an overview of the main standards will be offered covering both NB-PLC and broad-band BB-PLC and explaining their intended use in different application scenarios.

Some knowledge of communication systems and techniques. 

Tutorial on Power Line Communications, A. M. Tonello (the material will be given to students).Power Line Communications, Theory and Applications for Narrowband and Broadband Communications over Power Line, L. Lampe, E. Ferreira, J. Newbury, T. Swart, (ed.s), John Wiley & Sons. ISSN: 978-0-470-74030-9. Best Readings in Power Line Communications, IEEE Communications Society, online: http://www.comsoc.org/best-readings/powerline-communications Link auf weitere Informationenwww.andreatonello.com

Written test (1.5 hours)Oral exam (approx. 15 min)

Topics of the lectures. Sample of written test will be provided. 

Written part: lecture topicsOral part: discussion on the written test and related topics