Universal PLC technology for building reliable and cost-effective networks using existing Power Lines.

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Power Line Carrier
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e-terrapowercom is a broadband power line modem with integrated switch designed for communications on medium and low voltage grids. The solution is based on broadband PLC technology with additional networking capabilities, to build reliable and cost-effective communication networks utilizing existing power cables. e-terrapowercom provides a ruggedized design with superior performance allowing for a diverse range of applications such as metering, automation, asset monitoring, video surveillance and IP telephony.

e-terrapowercom

Broadband power line communication

e-terrapowercom is a broadband power line modem with integrated switch designed for communications on medium and low voltage grids. The solution is based on broadband PLC technology with additional networking capabilities, to build reliable and cost-effective communication networks utilizing existing power cables. e-terrapowercom provides a ruggedized design with superior performance allowing for a diverse range of applications such as metering, automation, asset monitoring, video surveillance and IP telephony.

GE Vernova Advantage

Compact and rugged design for harsh environments Compact and rugged design for harsh environments
Suitable for a variety of environmental conditions Suitable for a variety of environmental conditions
Superior transceiver design with proven field performance providing high signal power resulting in optimal performance
  • Up to 200Mbps* throughput and low latency data channel
  • Superior signal amplifier design for long distance coverage going up to several hundred meters without repeaters
  • Configurable frequency bands for optimal spectrum reuse
  • Flexible modulation with configurable notches to prevent interferences with other systems
Flexible switching features enabling a variety of applications
  • Built-in Ethernet switch reducing deployment costs by eliminating the need for additional network infrastructure
  • Integrated GUI for configuration and maintenance
  • Embedded monitoring and measurement tools for quicker deployment and simplified maintenance
  • Fast deployment mode utilizing default pre-configurations
  • Cyber security features to prevent local and remote unauthorized access
Ruggedized design for harsh environments with lower cost of ownership
  • Industrial hardened IP-40 enclosure with no cooling fans for extended operating life
  • Wide range built-in AC and DC power supply
  • DIN mountable and compact footprint design for small cubicles and voltage cell
  • EMC certified for high voltage environments and class II electrical safety

* Maximum bandwidth depending on signal noise ratio and external factors

Utility Application Example

Delivering cost effective communications solution for utilities on medium voltage networks

e-terrapowercom uses power cables as a medium for digital communication necessary for automation and control of the power grid. The solution delivers a transparent IP network with Quality-of-Service (QoS) to prioritize critical applications, and uses Virtual LANs (VLAN) to separate data streams of each distinct service. In order to improve asset control and maintenance, IP video cameras and telephones can be deployed in key substations due to the exceeding bandwidth provided. The communication system can be rolled out over a large number of substations starting from High Voltage (HV) substation to several kilometers over the grid, as it does not require heavy civil works and additional infrastructure.

Utility Application Example

Industry Application Example

A flexible and cost-effective alternative for telecom infrastructure for industrial applications

Industries can take advantage of the power grid built to supply energy to production and machinery to create IP communication channels, using the e-terrapowercom solution. This data channel can provide backhauling for operating local networks, telemetry on remote devices, and supervision of the assets connected to the control center. In addition, environments like underground facilities often have limited radio coverage and Broadband Power Line enables connecting such areas.

Industry Application Example

E-terrapowercom Components

Long Range Version

The e-terrapowercom is also available in a long range version, which has a higher power density in shorter frequency channel to attain longer distances or overcome noisier environments. The maximum bandwidth is reduced and it is dedicated to specific cases.

Coupling Options

The e-terrapowercom modem is connected to the electrical grid through inductive or capacitive coupling devices. Inductive is used over insulated cables while capacitive requires a connection to a live part of the grid. Inductive is easy and fast to install, especially in cubicles and small rooms. Capacitive is mainly dedicated to overhead lines.

E-terrapowercom overview diagram

Technical Specification

 BPLLong Range
Maximum raw bandwidth200 Mbps40 Mbps
Frequency range2 to 34 MHz1 to 17 MHz
Frequency modes1616
ModulationOFDMOFDM
Encryption3DES / AES 128bits3DES / AES 128bits
BPL power spectral density-35 dBm/Hz-30 dBm/Hz
Internal filtersSelectableSelectable
Networking
ModeLayer-2 / Layer-3
FeaturesReal-time monitoring
Remote ping (ICMP)
Static NAT
MAC address filtering
VLAN Access / Trunk
DHCP client
DHCP server
QoS 
IPSec client
SNMP v3
NTP client
Web GUIHTTP / HTTPS
Network standardsIEEE 802.3
IEEE 802.1p
IEEE 802.1q
Hardware
Ports2x BPL 50 Ohm
4x FEth RJ-45 auto-sensing
AC power cord connector
DC terminal block
Operation temperature-20°C to 65°C 
5% to 95% non-condensing
Weight680 g
Dimensions (W x H x D)60 x 146 x 150 mm
DIN mountTop hat rail
Ingress Protection LevelIP-40
Electrical
AC Operating voltage80 to 265 Vac 50/60Hz
DC Operation voltage24 to 40 Vdc
Power consumption6 W (Peak 12 W)
Standards
EMCIEC 61000-6-2:2005
IEC 61000-6-4:2006
IEC 61000-6-5:2001
ANSI C37.90.1/2/3
Operation environmentIEC 60721-3-3: 3K5 / 3M4
SafetyEN 60950 (LV Directive) / Class II

GE Vernova’s Gridcom T390 is an integrated system, combining high performance and flexibility, which allows utilities to reliably transmit voice, data, teleprotection and other services over HV transmission lines.

Gridcom T390

Universal Power Line Carrier (PLC) for High Voltage (HV) Transmission Lines

GE Vernova’s Gridcom T390 is an integrated system, combining high performance and flexibility, which allows utilities to reliably transmit voice, data, teleprotection and other services over HV transmission lines.

Improved Capacity & Efficiency

Offering superimposed mode and teleprotection over QAM for the highest LAN to LAN performance for your applications

High speed transmission for RTU: Some RTU's may require higher communication capabilities for SCADA. Some substations have to provide communication capabilities to perform remote operations such as configuration, telemaintenence, and monitoring. Since these services are mainly over IP, they require up to several hundred kbits/s for transmission.

Equipped with an Ethernet interface, Gridcom T390 can transmit LAN and WAN information from one end to the other. This feature, designed to support IP traffic transmission  on energy company networks, implements  an L2  bridge  at network  level (full transparent bridging) with advanced capabilities, compliant with 802.1q for VLAN transport, capable to go upto 320kbits/s @ 48 kHz total bandwidth in superimposed mode.

Gridcom T390 superimposed mode is desigend to allow transmission  (TX) and reception (RX) to share the same frequency band. Superimposed  mode is vital for digital PLC applications  as it allows optimal bandwidth optimization, and can reduce the total bandwidth occupation by half.

Secure & Reliable Solution

The Gridcom T390's RADIUS Remote User Authentication and SSH encryption adapts to your centralized user management topology with guaranteed communication confidentiality and data integrity between the PLC and the user.

  • Remote user access is secured by UserAuthentication (via RADIUS or PLC).
  • Local user can securely access PLC by submitting login/password per connection.
  • Communication between remote user and the Gridcom T390 is secured by SSH tunnel encryption (Algorithm AES128, 3DES).
  • Radius failure management is realized with RADIUS authentication mode fallback to PLC authentication mode.
Enhanced Security Features for Remote Users Enhanced Security Features for Remote Users

High Level of Configuration & Customization

Offering a powerful, embedded HMI configuration, commissioning, and test tool.

The Windows based HMI provides a comprehensive set of features including:Numerous operations are available in maintenance (TEST) mode:
  • Embedded configuration tools
  • Embedded commissioning and measurement tools
  • Recording capabilities
  • Commissioning tools as spectrum analyzer and data recorder are integrated in the HMI to help commissioning
  • Line measurements: SNR, AGC, TX PEP, etc.
  • Digital measurements: BER, QAM (Constellation)
  • Data recorder
  • System diagnostics: event recorder, history logging & loopback
  • Alarms status monitoring
  • Spectrum Analyzer
  • TPI (if a TPI is present in the system)
screens

Front panel mounting Front panel mounting
Integrated & Modular with Front Panel Mounting

Gridcom T390 integrates:

  • Amplifier unit: AMP/AMPX offers adjustable (2-80W) transmission power
  • Processing unit: PRCS
  • Optional, integrated Teleprotection unit: TPI provides up to 4 independent commands, with 8 input contacts and 14 heavy duty outputs

Each unit can be installed separately for a specific function, and can be configured to customer requirements, offering a high level of flexibility without any factory returns. All connections, including the power supply, are on the front of the unit for easy access for maintenance and checks.

Transmission Mode Transmission Mode
Versatile System, Supporting Analog, Digital & Mix Mode

Offering perfect operational flexibility, GE Vernova’s Gridcom T390 supports Analog, Digital, and mixed transmission on the same hardware platform. Customers can purchase an analog PLC, then upgrade with a simple firmware key activation, if the condition and application allow it. Compared to a conventional chassis, the number of interfaces is not restricted by the size of the chassis.

typical Applications Typical Applications