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EFR BPL: The smart solution for clear communication

Our complete BPL system for intelligent energy and network connectivity

BPL is the future-proof communication option for modern network communication.

The optimal communication solution balances availability, investment, and operating costs—this is where broadband powerline (BPL) scores as an economical alternative to LTE. BPL ensures reliability when radio fails due to interference, attenuation, or shielding. Our G.hn BPL system connects iMSys stably via existing power lines—without additional cabling costs.

High availability

BPL uses existing power infrastructure for stable communication and significantly higher installation/operational availability than mobile communications.

Easy installation and lower costs

Use of existing electrical infrastructure without costly new installations – quick and easy rollout.

Greater network transparency and reliability

The communication network can also be used for applications such as comprehensive network monitoring.

Interoperability

Our BPL system is compatible with other end devices, making it more economical, flexible, and future-proof.

Standardized with ITU G.hn

Our BPL system uses the established and internationally recognized ITU g.hn standard and sets standards for modern BPL communication.

Long service life & sustainability

Avoidance of material consumption thanks to existing electrical infrastructure.

Robust hardware and minimal maintenance requirements

EFR BPL complete system for intelligent energy and network connection

EFR BPL complete system for intelligent energy and network connection

The complete BPL system seamlessly integrates headend, 1TE modem, repeater, coupler, and NMS into a scalable communication solution via power grids. It enables secure, broadband data transmission without additional cabling in energy, smart grid, and industrial environments.

  • BPL headend: The BPL headend is used as a central element in the local network station, where it serves as the main point of a local broadband powerline communication network that spans several streets. It also forms the transition to the wide area networks that connect to the smart metering and smart grid backend systems.
  • BPL coupler: The BPL coupler securely couples the broadband powerline signal from the headend into the low-voltage network and enables reliable network communication.
  • BPL repeater: The BPL repeater is used in cable distribution cabinets to amplify the broadband signal and ensure a stable connection throughout the distribution network.
  • BPL 1TE modem: The BPL 1TE modem is used directly at the end customer’s premises next to the smart meter gateway on the meter to establish interoperable broadband communication with the BPL network and seamlessly transfer data to the backend. EFR network management system:
  • The EFR NMS is used by network operators to centrally monitor and control the entire BPL infrastructure and optimize it remotely as needed.

In summary: The system uses the power grid as a medium: The coupler feeds in signals, the 1TE modem communicates with end devices, repeaters extend the range, the headend transmits highly secure communication data to the backbone, and the NMS manages everything centrally. This creates transparent IP communication for smart metering.

Our solutions for optimal BPL rollout

Clear signals, clear solutions—BPL connects what needs to communicate

EFR-BPL-Product family

The robust hardware platform for reliable data transmission via the power grid

BPL-Headend
BPL-Repeater
BPL-1TE-Modem

EFR-NMS

The digital platform for reliable monitoring of powerline communication

Highlights of the EFR-BPL portfolio

  • High scalability – Supports large BPL networks with up to 250 powerline devices organized per headend.
  • Up to 2 external BPL couplers can be connected to the headend to ensure optimal and robust data transmission.
  • G.hn technology – Thanks to standardized technology and chipsets, compatibility with solutions from other manufacturers is ensured.
  • Interoperability through the 1TE modem: Establishes reliable communication between manufacturer-independent end devices (smart meter gateway ETH) and the powerline network.
  • Secure data processing: Compliant implementation of current security standards.
  • Future-proof thanks to flexible software architecture, enabling adaptation to new network requirements and protocol extensions.
  • 3-phase voltage quality monitoring with alarm function via the BPL repeater.
  • Long-range bridging: regenerates and amplifies data signals for stable communication even over long distances and in complex network structures.
  • Zero-touch deployment ensures fast, error-free commissioning and reduces installation effort
  • Automated device management, integrated geodata, and central management of BPL components in real time via the network management system.

Accessories and connection materials

Our tailor-made accessories specifically expand the range of functions of your solution.

This optimizes the flow of communication and ensures particularly simple and optimal installation, operation, and maintenance.

BPL-Coupler
SGC-BPL-CU

For optimal coupling into the power line and connection between the BPL headend and the power grid

BPL-Koppler SGC BPL-CU

Connection materials

For an optimal BPL rollout, we offer a comprehensive range of connection materials and matching accessories for our devices.

Try our BPL system

For broadband powerline (BPL) systems, we offer you the option of a no-obligation trial installation in your network. This allows you to test the reliability and performance of our G.hn-based BPL components in your infrastructure under real-world conditions.

We will work with you to plan the setup, commissioning, and monitoring of the test installation, right through to the evaluation of the measurement results.

If you are interested in a trial installation or would like further information, please contact us using the contact form or directly by email/phone. Our team will assist you with any questions you may have about the planning, implementation, and evaluation of your BPL pilot project.

Christian Brandl

Produktmanager Smart Energy

+49 (0)16 093 314 326

brandl(at)efr.de

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