Abstract: A line-powered module that is selectively operable in one of a plurality of modes of operation based upon the value of a selection signal. The line-powered module includes a control unit that selectively operates the module in one of the plurality of modes of operation based upon the value of a selection signal received by the control unit. The line-powered module includes a selection input that is coupled to the control unit such that the selection signal can be received at the selection input. Preferably, the selection input receives a selection wire that can be moved between different points of connection to define the plurality of states of the selection signal. Based upon the connection of the selection wire, the control unit operates the line-powered module in one of the plurality of modes of operation.

Abstract: Ethernet-enabled measurement systems are disclosed that are POE compatible. The measurement systems are configured to measure a physical variable, and to generate and communicate data representative of the measured physical variable. The physical variable may include, but is not limited to, fluid pressure, fluid flow rate, and fluid flow ratio. The POE compatible measurement systems are configured to communicate the data through a POE-capable cable over an Ethernet network in accordance with Ethernet networking protocol. The measurement systems are further configured to receive power through the same POE-capable cable from a power source connected to the Ethernet network.

Abstract: In an electric power transmission network, comprising several substations interconnected by power transmission lines, a communication device of a substation communicates over a power transmission line to a communication device of a neighboring substation by using command signals in a frequency band and a guard signal located in a first half of the frequency band. For successive lines, a repeating sequence of different schemes of command signals is used, each of the schemes comprising only command signals with frequencies located in a second half of the frequency band. By using a repeating sequence of different schemes for successive lines and by using in each of the schemes only command signals with frequencies located in one half of the reserved frequency band, it is possible to reduce the number of different frequency bands required in electric power transmission networks for transmitting command signals used for coding (tele-) protection commands.

Abstract: A transmit and receive circuit for use in power line communication devices is provided. One embodiment of the circuit includes a receive channel with a first delay circuit coupled to a first switch having an open configuration and a closed configuration a first switch. The circuit also may include a transmit channel coupled to the receive channel at a node and including a second delay circuit coupled to a second switch having an open configuration and a closed configuration. When the switch of either channel is closed, the switch of the other channel is open. Data signals traversing either channel when that channel's switch is closed, are phase shifted approximately three hundred and sixty degrees and conducted back to the node.

Abstract: The systems and methods of the present invention provide for conductive emissions communication without requiring dedicated communications wires. The systems and methods have the capability to send digital messages over the same wires that are used to power DC systems. Hardware filter circuits are combined with advanced algorithms in a communications control chip to permit the elimination of the dedicated wires, thereby needing zero additional wires to accomplish the task of digital control.

Abstract: A communication system includes a main power line and a plurality of PLC networks connected to the main power line in common. At least one of the PLC networks includes a plurality of nodes. One node of the nodes in the PLC network is connected to the main power line. The other nodes are interconnected via a sub power line so as to receive power from the main power line through the one node. An inductor provided in the one node is connected to the main power line and the sub power line.

Abstract: In a communication system, a first modulator converts first data created one of a power-generator and an external unit into a first modulated signal, and transmits the first modulated signal to the other of the power-generator and the external unit such that the first modulated signal is superimposed on the output voltage at the output terminal of the power-generator. When a second modulated signal containing second data is transmitted from the other of the power-generator and the external unit such that the second modulated signal is superimposed on the output voltage at the output terminal of the power-generator, a first demodulator receives the transmitted second modulated signal. The first demodulator demodulates the received second modulated signal into the second data.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, method, and computer-readable media are provided for configuring a power line networking device. According to one method, wireless network settings are converted into equivalent power line network settings compatible with a power line network. The converted settings are then utilized to configure the power line networking device for operation on the power line network. The power line network may be compatible with the HOMEPLUG networking standard by the HOMEPLUG POWER ALLIANCE. The wireless network settings may include a SSID and a wireless network key. The conversion process may be performed by a power line networking device or by a computer in communication with the power line networking device. The conversion and configuration may be performed in response to detecting that the power line networking device has not been configured for operation with the power line network.

Abstract: A peripheral load driver that utilizes the power, wiring, and primary load of a conventional doorbell system to drive a doorbell system peripheral load at a higher current without risk of inadvertently energizing the primary load of the conventional doorbell system. The peripheral load driver comprising a power converting means for converting power extracted from the conventional doorbell system from a higher-voltage-at-a-lower-current to a lower-voltage-at-a-higher current wherein the higher-voltage-at-a-lower-current is insufficient to energize the primary load of the conventional doorbell system and the lower-voltage-at-a-higher-current is compatible with the doorbell system peripheral load.

Abstract: A power line communication device for a vehicle is provided with an internal electronic control unit connected to a connection point on a power line, which communicates with an external electronic control unit by a communication signal superimposed on a supply voltage applied to the power line, and an impedance element inserted between the connection point and an external load. The impedance element suppresses attenuation of the communication signal.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system for operating a power line communications system that employs surface wave communications and conducted communications. The system is comprised of a plurality of network elements, which may take the form of repeaters, communication interface devices, backhaul devices, medium voltage transducers, distribution points, aggregation points, and others. In one embodiment, surface waves are communicated over the medium voltage power lines and the conducted communications are communicated via the low voltage power lines to and from customer premises.

Abstract: An electronic device has a first signal path, a first power supply path, and a connector that transmits to an external device the input signal on which the voltage has been superposed. The device also has a first power supply switch inserted into the first power supply path and an amplitude detector that detects at the connector an amplitude of the input signal, a control section that determines, based on a detection output from the amplitude detector, which a connection condition of the external device to the connector is a first condition in which the external device is not connected to the connector or a second condition in which the external device is connected to the connector. Based on the connection condition, the control section turns on or off the first power supply switch.

Abstract: A thermoelectric connector module (C) is disclosed which comprises input (2) and output (1E) connectors and contains signal conditioning circuitry (1C). The input connectors (2) are interfaced with a hand-held detector (7), and the output connectors (1E) are connected to signal-utilising apparatus (11). The module does not contain a battery but receives its power supply for the conditioning circuitry from the signal-utilising apparatus supplied via the output connectors (1E). In this way, the module may be miniaturised, making it particularly suitable for mounting directly on a hand-held temperature detector or probe. Since the connector does not have to be opened for a battery replacement, it can be permanently hermetically sealed, providing resistance to dirt, dust, moisture, water and the like.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and a device for communicating a signal over a power line. One embodiment may comprise a length of power cable that comprises a center conductor substantially surrounded by an insulator. A concentric conductor is disposed external to the insulator over a first portion of the cable. A coupling conductor may be disposed concentrically around a second portion of the cable external to said insulator and having a first end and a second end. The concentric conductor is absent in a manner to form a gap between the concentric conductor and the first end of said coupling conductor. A transceiver cable is coupled to the first end of said coupling conductor and a common mode choke may be disposed substantially around the entire circumference of a portion of said coupling conductor. Finally, the second end of the coupling conductor may be coupled to ground through a convenient neutral conductor.

Abstract: An automated meter reading power line communications system is provided, which may include measuring the utility usage of a first customer premises to provide first utility usage data, storing the first utility usage data in memory of a first device, wirelessly transmitting the first utility usage data from the first device, receiving the wirelessly transmitted first utility usage data at a second device coupled to a medium voltage power line, and transmitting the first utility usage data over the medium voltage power line.

Abstract: A communication device for use with a power line communication system is provided. One embodiment forms a bypass device and comprises a low voltage coupler, a low voltage signal conditioner, a controller, a medium voltage modem, a first medium signal conditioner, an isolator, a second medium voltage signal conditioner, and a medium coupler. The controller may provide routing functions to give priority to certain types of data, control access to the network, filter data packets, process software upgrades, and provision new subscriber devices. In addition, the controller may monitor, process, and transmit traffic data, measured power data, errors, and other collected data.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for adjusting the phase difference between different phases in a power line communication (PLC) system. The apparatus includes a power signal blocking unit blocking a power signal and allowing a data signal to pass between two different phases on three-phase power lines; and a data signal delaying unit delaying the data signal by the phase difference between the two different phases. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent data collision and a time delay in data transmission between different phases by employing the phase adjusting apparatus in a PLC system, thereby improving the performance of PLC.

Abstract: A “super-fast” polling method for electrical meters for outage detection. In response to a query, a large group of electric meters (M) all simultaneously transmit reply signals over an electrical distribution network using TWACS®. The signals are separated by an inbound detector (IB) at a receiving end of the network. This allows a very large number of meters to be polled in a very short period of time to determine whether or not an outage has occurred at the location of each meter. Each meter transmits a bit pattern, and bit patterns are designed so a group of meter units can transmit their patterns simultaneously over a power line (L) to the inbound detector. The presence or absence of a bit pattern in the received signal conveys the presence or absence of the associated meter in the system. The ability to transmit multiple bit patterns in parallel requires that they be orthogonal to each other. The Hadamard matrices are a class of matrices whose rows could be used as a set of bit patterns.

Abstract: A PLCS network element that provides communications to one or more user devices and may also repeat data for other network elements is provided. In one embodiment, the device includes software for discovering its upstream gateway, for acting as a gateway for other devices, and for relaying DHCP transmissions. In addition, the device includes software for receiving and processing commands from a remote computer system that may include commands enabling and disabling the repeater functionality. Finally, the device may also include software for receiving and processing configuration information that may include, for example, information of the other network devices for which it will repeat.

Abstract: A system and method indicates the configuration of power to be provided over Ethernet cabling.

Abstract: Data signals are communicated between a power line and a computer, wherein the power line provides power to the computer via a distribution transformer and the computer is in communication with a wireless communication path. A first data signal is communicated with the power line. A conversion is made between the first data signal and a second data signal capable of being communicated wirelessly. The second data signal is wirelessly communicated with the wireless communication path.

Abstract: A digital intercom device consistent with certain embodiments uses power line communication (PLC). A power line interface connects to a power line serving as a communication medium. An audio codec is coupled to the power line interface for encoding and decoding digital data to and from data suitable for use by the power line interface. A digital to analog converter receives digital decoded data from the codec and converts the digital coded data to a received analog signal. A receive audio amplifier amplifies the received analog signal to a level adequate to drive a speaker. A transmit audio amplifier amplifies a transmit audio signal and provides an amplified transmit audio signal as an output. An analog to digital converter converts the amplified transmit audio signal to a digital representation thereof and passes the digital representation to the codec. A control processor controls operation of the interface and the audio codec.

Abstract: An electric power line characteristic monitoring method that allows automatic conductor circuit fault data logging of average nominal and maximum magnitudes of conductor current, voltage, temperature and strain. Additionally, an alarm is implemented to enunciate a faulted condition on the power line. Parametric data storage is provided for later retrieval by a remote exciter. The parametric data is retrieved from the exciter through the transmission of a specific frequency and code key that activates the exciter.

Abstract: A system and method electrically isolates configuration and status information about power provided over Ethernet cabling.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel technique for transferring power and signals between two electrical devices over a single wire pair. In particular, a remote sensor is connected to a host device. Power to the remote sensor is supplied through a voltage reference and control loop circuit that holds the voltage component of the power signal present on the wire pair constant during remote current sensing. The remote sensor itself can transmit measurements or information by driving a load on the sensor and thereby modulating the loop current. The current signal in the sensor-to-host loop can be a precision AC analog signal or a serial digital bit stream. Both types of signals can coexist using a multiplexing scheme.

Abstract: A burglar alarm includes a main unit provided with a power supply voltage regulator circuit, a CPU circuit, an FET driving circuit, and an RLC oscillation circuit to convert digital code signals into analog signals, which are amplified and then carried via a power cord; and a decoding horn provided with a power supply voltage regulator circuit, a reference voltage circuit, an RLC oscillation circuit, a comparison circuit, a CPU circuit, and a horn voice driving circuit to decode and compare a received burglar-alarming signal and drive a horn to make vocal and sounding warnings. The burglar alarm is controlled via different frequencies that represent codes 1 and 0, or a base frequency and different pulse widths representing codes 1 and 0, so that the signals are carriable via the power cord without interference from noise on the power word.

Abstract: A system for communicating across conventional HVAC wiring is provided. The system includes a communication device having a communication module capable of inducing low power, high frequency current signals into a single control wire coupling, for example, a thermostat with a compressor. The communication module includes a power supply module that draws power sufficient to operate the communication module from the existing HVAC wiring, so as to eliminate any need for batteries or external power sources. A second communication module may be coupled to the single control wire. The second communication module operates as a transceiver sending communication signals to, and receiving communication signals from, the communication module. In one embodiment, the communication module is disposed within a building, for example coupled to an electronic thermostat, while the second communication module is disposed outside the building near the compressor.

Abstract: According to the present invention, a power source delivers power to a networked device over network cabling (e.g., Ethernet cabling) in one of two modes: a low power mode and a high power mode. The power source begins delivering power at a low power level in the low power mode, and switches to a high power level in the high power mode after a communication exchange between the networked device and the power source. A power source delivery system includes circuitry on both the power source and the powered device for communicating information between the devices.

Abstract: The invention may be broadly conceptualized as an approach in which a coffeemaker (116) receives a plurality of timer settings from a network and communicates the state of the coffeemaker (116) to another network device while keeping a real-time clock (1112) synchronized and correctly set by receiving period time synchronization messages.

Abstract: A powerline based communication system includes a powerline termination module, a plurality of powerline gateways, and a plurality of powerline nodes. The powerline termination module manages data for local area networks within the powerline based communication system. The plurality of powerline gateways is arranged in sets of powerline gateways, wherein each set of powerline gateways constitutes a local area network. Each of the plurality of powerline nodes is operably coupled to the powerline termination module via a high-speed communication path. In addition, each powerline node is operably coupled to set of powerline gateways, i.e., to a local area network, via powerlines of a local transformer. Each of the powerline nodes receives data for its respective LAN from the powerline termination module and provides the data to the powerline gateways of its LAN via the powerlines of the local transformer.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided that includes an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) configured to be connected to a power distribution network. A communications circuit is also provided. The communications circuit is operatively associated with the UPS and operative to generate a power line carrier status signal on the power distribution network. The power line carrier status signal is indicative of a status of power delivered to the power distribution network by the UPS. Related methods of operating such apparatus are also provided.

Abstract: An interface circuit and method for use in interconnected hazardous condition detectors is provided. This circuit and method prioritizes the various hazardous condition alarms to ensure that only the highest priority or greatest threat alarm is sounded when such a condition is detected. In this way a lower priority alarm that may be sounding will be switched to a higher priority alarm so that all interconnected detectors that have the capability will sound the higher priority alarm. This will reduce occupant confusion during a hazardous condition. The circuit and method also provides the ability to silence all interconnected detectors except for those sensing the hazardous condition to allow the occupant to locate the triggering alarm, and there for the location of the sensed hazardous condition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for the wireless light sensor input to a security system, wherein the light sensed by the light sensor is used to determine the activation and deactivation state of the security system. The system and method determine a light level threshold value and obtaining a light level value. Further, the obtained light level value is compared to a light level threshold value in order to determine if the present light level value is greater than or less than the light level threshold value, and finally, a signal is transmitted to a remote device in response to the comparison of the light level value.

Abstract: In a fire alarm system, a message is sent on a pair of power lines to a notification appliance. The notification appliance responds to the message by activating one or more of its notification devices. In a standby mode, only enough power is supplied to the plural notification appliances, at a first voltage level, to support two-way communications between a system controller and the notification appliances. In an active mode, power is supplied at a second voltage sufficient to operate audible and visible alarms of the notification appliance.

Abstract: A transmitter for a line locator system that controls the electrical current, voltage or power applied to the target line is disclosed. Control of the electrical output of the transmitter can be achieved passively or by means of a feedback control system. A transmitter connected directly to a line can include an operator control and monitoring of current being supplied to a line to be located. Some transmitters include a current regulating circuit that controls current supplied to a line. In some transmitters, feedback controllers and feedback loops are used to regulate output current, voltage or power. Some control loops are based on monitoring currents in circuits; some control loops monitor power output from an inductive mode transmitter antenna. An inductively coupled transmitter with power output control is also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for decreasing high frequency (HF) radiation emission in a power line comprises a first transmitter configured to transmit a utility power signal over the power line. A second transmitter transmits a high frequency communication signal over the power line so as to provide a combined utility and high frequency signal. A plurality of modulators, each of which provides a differential output signal to at least two phases of the power line such that the same high frequency data signal is transmitted via at least two phases of the power transmission line in an out-of-phase arrangement.

Abstract: The device has a primary circuit (1) that transmits energy or data via an intermediate circuit (2) to a secondary circuit (3) by means of induction. The intermediate circuit (2) has a very low quality factor. The inductive coupling between the intermediate circuit (2) and the secondary circuit (3) is reduced by inserting an additional leakage inductor (Ls ) so that energy or data is transmitted from the primary circuit (1) to the secondary circuit (3) as effectively as possible. This has the effect of lessening the damping effect of the intermediate circuit (2) on the secondary circuit (3).

Abstract: The present invention provides a burst mode power line data network system having at least one burst mode power line transmitter (BMPLT) and at least one burst mode power line receiver (BMPLR) for enabling signaling, telephony and data communications via power lines without using carrier frequencies. The BMPLT transmits line encoded bursts of information via a power line to the BMPLR which receives the line encoded bursts of information and has a maximum inter-packet idle time of only one bit between bursts. The invention permits the use of AC coupling in a receiver and results in outputting data with constant pulse widths irrespective of optical signal power levels, etc. In one embodiment, a receiver has a wide dynamic range, is highly stable, may be used over all frequencies of interest without developing high speed electronics or optical components, and has no sensitivity penalty as compared to existing burst mode/packet mode receivers.

Abstract: The invention includes a method, system, and device for communicating a data signal on an electric power system. The inventive method includes communicating the data signal to the electric power system, and modifying the characteristics of the electric power system to reduce the data signal communicated to an electrical component located on the electric power system without substantially reducing a voltage signal. The method further includes communicating the data signal to a customer premise. The electrical component may include, for example, an electrical transformer.

Abstract: Data signals are communicated between a power line and a computer, wherein the power line provides power to the computer via a distribution transformer and the computer is in communication with a wireless communication path. A first data signal is communicated with the power line. A conversion is made between the first data signal and a second data signal capable of being communicated wirelessly. The second data signal is wirelessly communicated with the wireless communication path.

Abstract: A gateway module including a security system interface for interfacing with a security system control panel via a security system bus, a peripheral device interface for interfacing with a peripheral device, and processing circuitry for controlling operation. The processing circuitry transceives security system data to and from the security system interface, wherein the security system data is configured in a security system protocol suitable for communication with a security system control panel, and transceives peripheral device data to and from the peripheral device interface, wherein the peripheral device data is configured in a peripheral device protocol suitable for communication with a peripheral device. The processing circuitry is also adapted to translate security system data to peripheral device data, and also translate peripheral device data to security system data.

Abstract: Verifying that power line communication units (106) are properly coupled to power circuits (104) is disclosed. Each of a number of communication units (106) is coupled to one of one or more power circuits (104), and sends an identifier over this power circuit. One or more management components (110) collect the identifier sent by each communication unit, and use at least these identifiers to verify that the communication units (106) are properly coupled to the power circuits (104).

Abstract: A human being presence detection system automatically determines the presence of human beings without directly attaching sensors to the human body and detects human drowsiness. The detection system characterizes the occupancy of a vehicle seat to determine the characteristics of deployment of vehicle airbags and restraints in the event of a crash/accident. In other applications, the presence of persons hiding in a predetermined space is detected, including caves, underground bunkers, tunnels, etc. The rescue of military personnel or of persons trapped under rubble, behind barriers, within building, etc., is facilitated. In one embodiment, human beings are detected using data obtained from pressure transducers in the space of interest. The pressure signals are processed by a novel signal processing algorithm to determine the presence or absence of a human being, using information from different types of pressure transducers.

Abstract: A power line warning light apparatus is installed on power lines (electric power transmission lines), and uses the electro-magnetic coupled power from the power line to generate a periodical flashing light as a warning signal to the nearby flying vehicles to prevent collisions.

Abstract: A dimmer control system has a communication control loop that connects a master unit in series with a plurality of remote units, and it is superimposed in series on the dimmer load line so as to allow two-way communication between the master unit and remote units without affecting the operation of the load. Communications from the master to the remote units are encoded in loop current fluctuations, whereas communications from any remote to the master unit are encoded in loop voltage fluctuations. The master unit has a switched power supply, for use during normal LOAD ON operation, in tandem with a capacitive power supply, for use during LOAD OFF operation of the control units so as to minimize hum. The master unit power supply circuit provides an output rail voltage comprised of a reference voltage for the load superimposed with a control loop voltage for the voltage drop across the series-connected remote units.

Abstract: Normal hard-wired domestic burglar alarms have cables with six conductors extending between the alarm controller and each remote input/output device (such as an entry keypad). The present alarm system has an alarm controller, a remote input/output device, a cable extending from the alarm controller to the remote input/output device, the cable comprising two conductors only, providing power to the remote input/output device. A signal processor at the controller monitors and processes voltage and current in the conductors to affect functions of the alarm system. A mixer at the remote input/output device processes voltage and current in the conductors to affect functions of the alarm system.

Abstract: A dimmer control system has a communication control loop that connects a master unit in series with a plurality of remote units, and it is superimposed in series on the dimmer load line so as to allow two-way communication between the master unit and remote units without affecting the operation of the load. Communications from the master to the remote units are encoded in loop current fluctuations, whereas communications from any remote to the master unit are encoded in loop voltage fluctuations. The master unit has a switched power supply, for use during normal LOAD ON operation, in tandem with a capacitive power supply, for use during LOAD OFF operation of the control units so as to minimize hum. The master unit power supply circuit provides an output rail voltage comprised of a reference voltage for the load superimposed with a control loop voltage for the voltage drop across the series-connected remote units.

Abstract: This invention—iBOX, an intelligent multifunction mailbox, combines several technologies, such as video camera, remote programmable keypad, PN junction thermoelectric unit, powerline communication, wire or wireless communication and Internet together to provide a more secure, multi functional mailbox. It resolves several short comes of the traditional signature-required delivery operations.

Abstract: A dimmer control system has a communication control loop that connects a master unit in series with a plurality of remote units, and it is superimposed in series on the dimmer load line so as to allow two-way communication between the master unit and remote units without affecting the operation of the load. Communications from the master to the remote units are encoded in loop current fluctuations, whereas communications from any remote to the master unit are encoded in loop voltage fluctuations. The master unit has a switched power supply, for use during normal LOAD ON operation, in tandem with a capacitive power supply, for use during LOAD OFF operation of the control units so as to minimize hum. The master unit power supply circuit provides an output rail voltage comprised of a reference voltage for the load superimposed with a control loop voltage for the voltage drop across the series-connected remote units.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a fire alarm system for connecting a plurality of fire sensors to sensor lines, and giving an alarm in response to fire information output from the fire sensor in a line unit. The fire alarm system includes a current modulation section and an address specification section. The current modulation section is used for maintaining a current flowing in the sensor line at a predetermined value for a predetermined time at the time of a fire, and modulating the current in accordance with the inherent address information of the fire sensor. The address specification section is used for sensing fire information by judging whether or not the current has been maintained at the predetermined value for the predetermined time, and also for specifying the inherent address of the fire sensor that issued the fire information, from the modulated state of the current.