Atec PLCA-22 User Manual

PLCA-22 Power Line Communications Analyzer

Model 58022

Description

The PLCA-22 Power Line Communications Analyzer
provides a simple, cost-effective method for field testing
the operation and suitability of Echelon’s PLT-22 transceiver
for any application. By using the PLCA-22 in actual applica­tion environments (e.g., residences, commercial buildings,
factories), users can quickly determine the performance of
the PLT-22 transceiver as well as the need for routers, condi­tioning devices such as couplers, or booster amplifiers.

PLCA-22 analyzers are used in pairs: one unit sends
sequentially numbered packets whose length and protocol
service type is set by the user and the other unit receives the
packets and displays errors as a percentage of the total number
of packets sent. The PLCA-22 analyzers automatically
exchange test configuration information between one another,
minimizing the need for a user to access both analyzers during
testing. Either analyzer can be programmed to be the Sender or
the Receiver, and when one unit is set to be the Sender, the
other automatically becomes the Receiver. At the end of a test,
the packet error rate seen by the Receiver is automatically
forwarded to the Sender for display, eliminating the need to
physically observe the Receiver for test results.

Rapidly Assess Communication Performance

The user interface and flexible features of the PLCA-22
analyzer permit rapid characterization of PLT-22-based
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networks. Dual signal strength LED bar meters,
one for each of the two PLT-22 carrier frequencies, indicate
both the signal level of incoming packets and the power line
noise level when packets are not being transmitted. When
combined with the packet error rate display, the signal strength
and noise level readings indicate the suitability of a circuit for
power line communications. A headphone/oscilloscope jack
allows users to audibly or visually assess signal and noise
characteristics.

Additional features include:

Operates Over Two Frequency Bands: The user can select
between operation in the frequency range of 110kHz to
140kHz (C-band mode) or from 70kHz to 95kHz (A-band
mode). The first frequency range is the standard for most
automation applications, while the second range is typically
used for meter reading in Europe. Adjustable Transmit Level:
Users can select a 1.7, 3.5, 7, or 10Volts peak-to-peak (p-p)
output level with a 1Amp or 2Amp p-p current limit. This
feature allows the user to determine the value of using a higher
PLT-22 output voltage or a PLA-21 Amplifier.

Adjustable Attenuation: The transmit signal can be attenuat­ed in discrete steps to determine the system operating margin.
This feature helps the user determine how close a system is to
its operating limit.

Automatic Phase Detection: Since “As-Built” drawings are
often unavailable or inaccurate, a phase detector feature is
provided to determine the relative distribution phase between a
pair of power mains circuits. This greatly simplifies system
commissioning and troubleshooting.

Supports Virtually Any Mains Circuit

The PLCA-22 offers both Line-to-Neutral and Line-to­Earth coupling through the built-in AC line cord, or through a
custom coupling network connected to the external coupling
connector. The external coupling connector enables the PLCA­22 analyzer to communicate over virtually any AC or DC
voltage power mains, and even over un-powered twisted pair.

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Simple, cost-effective power line communication test tool

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Analyzes power line signaling performance and signal
margin of the PLT-22 power line transceiver

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Helps identify if routers, conditioning devices or booster
amplifiers are needed

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Determines power circuit phase

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Supports virtually any AC or DC mains voltage,
or un-powered wire

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Ideal for testing the power line performance
of PLT-22-based nodes

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RS-232 port for data logging

Data Logging

Each PLCA-22 analyzer includes an output-only RS-232
communication port. This port may be connected to a PC or
other data logging device to create permanent record of power
line performance.

Rugged Packaging

The PLCA-22 analyzer is packaged in a rugged case that
holds the electronics, power supply, LCD display, and operator
keypad. Each analyzer operates from 100-240VAC or from an
external DC power source; the latter permits the unit to operate
from batteries in applications where AC line voltage is not
available. An adjustable backlit-LCD display enhances
viewing in dimly lit work environments.

Specifications

Function Description

Microprocessor Neuron 3150 Chip
Packet size Adjustable via keypad, 12-76 bytes (including CRC)
Power supply type Internal 100-120/240 VAC switching supply or external DC power supply, fused
External DC power supply

(supply not included) 18VDC @ 1A
Power supply consumption 9W maximum transmit, 3W typical receive
External power supply input Miniature power jack, 2.1mm x 5.5mm plug (Shogyo SPY1812 or equal)
Headphone/oscilloscope output Standard 1/4″ (6.4mm) jack
Coupling types Internal or external, switch selectable.Line-to-Earth and Line-to-Neutral modes, switch selectable
Electrostatic discharge to

network connector or case No hard failures to 20,000V
Regulatory compliance Complies with FCC power line carrier requirements for conducted emissions, and FCC

Level Afor radiated emissions. Complies with both CE Mark requirements and CENELEC

EN50065-1 specifications for low-voltage signaling.
Listings U L3 111-1, c-ULto CSAC22.2 No. 1010.1, TÜVEN-61010-1
Transceiver bit rate 5kbps (C-band mode), 3.6kbps (A-band mode)
Transmission technique BPSK 110kHz-140kHz (C-band mode), BPSK 70kHz-95kHz (A-band mode)
Nominal line input voltages 100-120/24 0VAC
Line input voltage tolerance +6, –10%
Output voltage Selectable 1.7 to 10V p-p
Power line connector IEC-320 compatible line cord
Operating altitude 4572m (15,000 feet max)
Non-operating altitude 7620m (25,000 feet max)
Installation categories (overvoltage) II
Pollution degree 2
Operating temperature 0 to +40°C
Non-operating temperature –20 to +60°C
Operating humidity (non-condensing) 25 - 90% RH @ +40°C
Non-operating humidity

(non-condensing) 90% RH @ +60°C
Dimensions 184 mm x 237 mm x 102mm (7.2≤ x 9.3≤ x 4.0_) excluding case handle

Ordering Information

Product Echelon Model Number

PLCA-22 Analyzer (one pair). 58022-P
See price list for line cord options.

LONWORKS PLCA-22 Power Line Communications Analyzer User’s Guide 078-0176-01A
(one copy shipped with each pair)

www.echelon.com

Copyright © 2001-2002, Echelon Corporation. Echelon, LON, LONWORKS, LONMARK, LonBuilder, Nodebuilder, LonManager, Digital Home, LonTalk, Neuron, 3120, 3150, the LONMARK logo, and the Echelon logo are
trademarks of Echelon Corporation registered in the United States and other countries. LNS, the LNS Powered Logo, LonPoint, SMX, LonResponse, LONews, LonSupport, LonMaker, i.LON, Bringing the Internet to
Life, Open Systems Alliance, and the Open Systems Alliance logo are trademarks of Echelon Corporation. Other trademarks belong to their respective corporations.

Disclaimer

Neuron Chips, Free Topology Twisted Pair Transceiver Modules, and other OEM Products were not designed for use in equipment or systems which involve danger to human health or safety or a risk of property
damage and Echelon assumes no responsibility or liability for use of the Neuron Chips or Free Topology Twisted Pair Transceiver Modules in such applications. ECHELON MAKES AND YOU RECEIVE NO
WARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS, EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY OR IN ANY COMMUNICATION WITH YOU, AND ECHELON SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY
OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. 003-0330-01A