Powerline Chip Clamps Down On Noise

Forecasting reliable smart-grid metering, the SM2200 orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) based power line transceiver operates successfully in particularly noisy environments. The chip uses modulation and signal processing technology that is adjustable in speed and adapts to the noise environment to choose the most effective transmission frequency.  It also employs a multi-access scheme for communication with multiple nodes simultaneously. Other features include a packet data modem with a simple PHY, programmable modulation, user selectable BPSK and QPSK modulation, a narrow band emulation and low frequency mode putting channels in CENELEC frequency range, selectable frequency range for each carrier, transmit power regulation, and error correction. The SM2200 is sampling now. SEMTECH CORP., Camarillo, CA (805) 498-2111.