Data communication network providing power and message information

A data communication system for delivering power and message information from a transmitter to a receiver, said system comprising:

• first and second transformers coupled to said transmitter and receiver, respectively, each of said transformers having a centertap connection to its secondary winding;
• DC voltage supply means for producing a predetermined potential, said supply means having a first voltage terminal coupled to said centertap connection associated with said first transformer, and a second voltage terminal;
• a first cable coupling said first and said second transformers to each other, thereby providing an AC communications path;
• means for converting said predetermined potential to a regulated supply voltage for use by said receiver, said converter means being coupled to said centertap connection associated with said second transformer;
• a second cable coupling said second voltage terminal of said supply means to said converter means, thereby providing a path for DC current to flow through said first and second cables, said DC current being divided within said secondary windings such that the net DC flux present within said transformers is substantially eliminated.