Many current smart meters are enabled by either NB PLC or Narrowband wireless (NB RF), which means they are limited by slow speed, long latency and noise at low frequency bands. Smart meter OEMs predict that due to the high performance, long range capabilities and cost-effectiveness of wide band PLC, WB PLC will replace most NB PLC and NB RF solutions in the next generation of smart meters.

The highly integrated GV7013LB offers high performance and robust power line connectivity with raw data rate over the line up to 4 Mbps, which supports demand response and real-time control to save energy in smart meter applications. The GV7013LB can be configured to scale the upper frequency of the spectrum from 7MHz to 15MHz—an innovative and unique feature that allows Greenvity’s chip to adapt to different regulations and environments in many countries.

For instance, using OFDM technology across the 2 MHz to 12 MHz spectrum complies with requirements set by regulatory agencies in China and other Asian countries. The Hybrii-LB offers reliability and increases noise immunity in a system that enables long distance communications up to 1.5 Km. In addition, the Hybrii-LB chip integrates the proprietary relay algorithm as an option to extend range beyond 1.5Km.

“Greenvity is leading the connectivity technology for the next generation of smart meters with our patented Wideband PLC,” said Hung Nguyen, president and CEO of Greenvity. “Our GV7013LB and its smart metering software suite enables OEM customers to create and produce smart meter solutions with true demand response and real-time control over a large metering network and also helps them get to market more quickly.”

The GV7013LB chip integrates a microprocessor for low power management and intelligent networking that can support up to 1,000 meters per network. It can be deployed inside smart meters, concentrators and data collectors. The Hybrii-LB chip is designed and tested for industrial temperature requirements (-40 degrees C to +85 degrees C), making it suitable for many industrial applications including smart meter applications.