PLC channel characterization and modelling

This OMEGA deliverable presents a detailed study of the channel characterization and modelling for the Power Line Communications (PLC) channel. The Channel Transfer Function (CTF) is first thoroughly investigated. The channel time-frequency characteristics are studied from a measurement campaign covering a frequency band up to 100 MHz. Different approaches for the modelling of the CTF are proposed. Statistical channel generators are derived from both experimental observations and analytical representations, and an approach based on the transmission line theory is provided to study the effect of the network topology. Then, the impulsive noise generated by different electrical appliances is experimentally characterized at the source, and used to generate a model at the receiver. Stationary noise is finally investigated by both literature overview and experimental observations, and a simple model is provided. The models proposed in this deliverable will be used to support future studies on advanced signal processing techniques for PLC systems.