New Industry Products

Compact Isolation Transformers for Narrowband PLC Applications

January 07, 2016 by Jeff Shepard

VACUUMSCHMELZE GmbH & Co. KG has completely redesigned its series of PLC transformers for smart metering. The new transformers are marketed as "isolation transformers for narrowband PLC applications", to reflect their growing range of potential uses and highlight their wide range of application possibilities, e.g. as signal transmitters for controlling and monitoring household appliances and as data transmitters for the remote reading of smart meters. The transmitters in the new series are based on VITROVAC® and VITROPERM®; these advanced materials, developed in-house by VAC, feature outstanding transmission characteristics, high resistance to EMC interference and safe galvanic insulation.

The technical features of the transmitters, supplied in THT or SMT models, are described in detail in VAC’s new English language product information sheet, “Isolation Transformers for Narrowband PLC Systems“ (PI-IA 3). The information sheet also contains comprehensive information on the characteristic properties and parameters of the ultra-compact assemblies.

VAC also provides useful assistance in transmitter selection by providing comparative information on insulation properties and compatibility with PLC chipsets. Customers can choose between transmitters offering functional insulation or reinforced insulation in compliance with IEC 60950 or IEC 61558. In addition, by consulting an IC comparison list, they can select transmitter models that are compatible with a variety of PLC chipsets, enabling them to pre-select the optimum transmitter for their application-specific requirements profile. However, experimental verification of the suitability for the actual conditions of use is still an essential step.