Renesas' third-generation single-chip powerline solutions offer meter manufacturers greater flexibility to manage their key challenges more easily, significantly reducing time to market, minimizing risks, and maximizing system profitability. With its increased memory capacity and processing performance, new-generation PLC protocols like PRIME 1.4 with full-band coverage, and the implementation of additional features such as two-way communication, Renesas helps customers differentiate their products.
 
With the constant evolution of the metering market and the rise of smart meters, meter manufacturers face numerous challenges in developing new smart grid systems, including smart meters and concentrators, to meet ever-changing needs. Governments and utilities are driving this shift, and in many cases, bids for various mass deployments are divided into several tiers with different specifications and timelines. In response to this scenario, meter manufacturers must develop solutions with a rapid turnaround time to meet market requirements, while also achieving a low total cost of ownership and minimizing risk. The clear solution is a flexible platform approach that meets the standards of multiple PLC communications for pan-European and global solutions. Renesas' third-generation flexible software, defined as multi-standard for powerline solutions, fully meets these requirements.
 
Building on the proven track record of success with Renesas solutions in predecessor powerline devices, the goal of this new generation is to reduce material costs while increasing robustness and performance, and even enabling bidirectional communication where needed. The new modem device integrates an enhanced MAC controller that supports large-scale network hopping and routing, as well as a high-performance digital signal processor (DSP) with special PLC instructions, covering the implementation of the physical layer (PHY) and real-time processing of the media access protocol (MAC). Furthermore, DSP algorithms are implemented that improve robustness through noise detection, noise reduction, and error correction mechanisms. Exceptional signal quality and a wide dynamic range are ensured by the integrated Analog Front End (AFE), which includes an adaptive gain amplifier and automatic gain control (AGC). The integration of the LDO regulator, DC/DC converter, and transmission filters contributes to reduced power supply noise and a shorter bill of materials.
 
A dedicated reference platform (YCONNECT-IT-PLC-CPX3) provides customers with flexible device configuration. The protocol stack, including selectable frequency bands, and communication can be easily analyzed using a dedicated PC graphical interface. It also allows for customization of the evaluation software within the customer's test environment, as well as the configuration of their test cases.
 
“Renesas is once again demonstrating its leadership in communication standards, which is only possible through continuous investment in research, participation in dedicated international consortia and working groups, and direct contracts with major meter and utility manufacturers,” says Niels Trapp, Senior Director – Solutions Segment – ​​ICBG at Renesas Electronics Europe. “This enables the direct transfer of field experience in the development, cost-effectiveness, and future-proofing of solutions.”
 
The official launch of the new Renesas OFDM powerline modem will take place at Utility Week from November 3–5, 2015, in Vienna. Renesas will be presenting next-generation metering and communication technology solutions at Booth B.d24.

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