Method and apparatus for providing inductive coupling and decoupling of high-frequency, high-bandwidth data signals directly on and off of a high voltage power line

#The present invention is concerned with the field of transmitting and receiving high frequency, high bandwidth signals safely and efficiently over power lines. An exemplary system comprises a power line coupler of the present invention, a fiber optic isolator and a communications interface to various media. More specifically, the present invention is drawn to a method and apparatus for coupling to a high voltage power line for transmitting and receiving high frequency, high bandwidth signals.

#With well-established power distribution systems (PDSs) already in place throughout much of the world, an efficient power line communication system (PLCS) could provide more users with high-speed telecommunications access with the minimum investment of “add-on” devices.

#The infrastructure for providing broadband Internet access is presently insufficient to meet demand. A power distribution system (PDS), however, could be an ideal vehicle for carrying communications signals in order to meet this demand. Development of a power line communication system (PLCS) would therefore provide more users with high-speed telecommunications access. Since the PDS is already built, the time required to implement a PLCS would be minimal.

#FIG. 1 discloses the typical electric distribution topology of the prior art.

#FIG. 2 illustrates typical electric distribution topology modified for communication in accordance with the present invention.

#FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of the AP in accordance with the present invention.

#The present invention is a power line coupler device specially suited for coupling and de-coupling high frequency, broadband signals carried over power lines within a power distribution system. The PLC device includes the coupler and circuitry necessary to condition the signal, to handle bi-directional signal transfer, to enable the use of an isolator, to be self-contained and to be able to provide operational power from the power line. The PLC device is part of an overall power line communication system (PLCS) which incorporates the present invention and other, companion inventions from the same inventor. The following description is a description of the PLCS in general. The PLC device embodiment is included in the system description. The description pertinent to the PLC device should be apparent to one skilled in the art.

#Referring to FIG. 1, the typical electric distribution topology of the prior art is illustrated. Medium voltage (MV) half loop power delivery system, as illustrated, is common to the US PDS. Many transformers are used. Each transformer services a few homes or small businesses. Many other countries, such as the European states, use a high voltage delivery system with many end users serviced from a transformer. The present invention is applicable to either environment.

#The power line communication system may be implemented in a high voltage and medium voltage environment (i.e. 1-100 kVAC). For purposes of this description and claims, the high and medium voltage portion of the PDS is described as primary voltage (PV). The low voltage portion of the system is described secondary voltage (SV). These terms are arbitrary but used to improve clarity of the description. Similarly, the side of a transfer where the PV line enters is called the “primary” side. The SV side of the transformer is referred to as the “secondary” side of the transformer.