Just like the DSL, the BoPL is having all the benefits of using existing wiring for delivering services. but unlike DSL it is not using phone lines. Instead, it is using electrical power supply networks for transmitting broadband communication services. Usual current in the power line is traveling with wave frequency of 50-to-60 Hz, which leaves plenty of space for broadband. In order to be able to separate power line signal from data, special bypasses are installed around transformers. Installation of specialized equipment with slight modification of the power grids that allows transmission of data and electrical power at the same time over same media as shown in Figure 1. BoPL technology is using low-voltage power supply network as the media for data transmission. As it can be seen from the Figure 1, the PLC base/master station (PLCBS) is coupling the Internet signal and power supply network to the format that can be transmitted over low-voltage power supply network. On the other end, at the customer premises the PLC modem is converting the signal to standard data that can be further distributed over the premises.

 

 

Depending on the model, PLC modem may have Ethernet and/or USB interfaces for user convenience. Average transmission speed in this type of network is between 256 Kbps and 3 Mbps.

 

The technology of BoPL is having highly limited deployment area since the power lines are not shielded or twisted making them giant radiating antennas. Also, the external interface is a concern due to unshielded wiring.

 

The main benefit of PLC for some countries is the support of massive Smart Grid. That may increase technology development speed in the next few years.