Statistical Modeling of Brazilian In-Home PLC Channel Features

Abstract

This paper deals with the statistical modeling of key features of power line communication (PLC) channels that are necessary for designing data communication systems that operate over theses channels. The key features are average channel attenuation, root mean squared delay spread, coherence bandwidth and coherence time. All these features were estimated from in-home PLC channels measured in seven distinct and typical Brazilian residences. Assuming that each feature is a random variable, four criteria (i.e., maximum likelihood estimate and three different information criteria) are used to select the statistical distribution that offers the best fits for each attribute. During this process, the symmetry and asymmetry of the histogram associated with each feature is pointed out. The reported results focus on three frequency bands, namely: from 1.7 MHz up to 30 MHz, from 1.7 MHz up to 50 MHz and from 1.7 MHz up to 100 MHz, which are useful for with Europe, North America and Brazil. The findings report similarities and discrepancies with previous statistical models related to US and Europe and enables one to better design practical PLC devices.