High-Speed Powerline Transceiver Ensures Reliable Broadband Powerline Communications in Industrial Environments

Industry-standard, HomePlug 1.0 powerline communications chipsets have become commonplace in residential applications. Nonetheless, many industrial and commercial applications could not take advantage of the technology because existing products lacked the reliability and temperature ratings necessary for those uses. Further, commercial and industrial powerline environments have unique, high-noise characteristics not found in the residential environments where most HomePlug modems are used. Consequently, industrial applications need the powerline receiver and narrowband interference rejection circuitry to be optimized for reliable performance in their environments. Ultimately, the automation industry wants to deploy a single-cable power and communications network that provides long operating life, operates with high accuracy in their harsh environment, and reliably monitors and controls remote sensors, system, and motors. They want a proven reliable powerline network that functions for them. Now with the MAX2982, their solution has arrived.

Single-Cable Power and Control with Broadband Powerline Communications on AC or DC Lines

The MAX2982 is optimized for high-performance, real-time control, and automation applications. The device’s low-latency 333us response time and 14Mbps data rate support high-bandwidth data from large arrays of automated equipment in a single network. With its 512-address bridge table and point-to-multipoint addressing, the MAX2982 records, monitors, and controls hundreds of HomePlug modems in a network. This technology eliminates the traditional need for long, dedicated communication cables. Optional firmware delivers additional noise immunity to improve the communication range even further. The 56-bit DES/triple-DES (3DES) encryption with key management ensures secure communication.

“We partnered with Maxim to supply the optimized powerline communication solution needed for our high-reliability industrial automation products. Maxim brought us experience in both powerline technology and extended-temperature-range components,” said Rochus Hien, R&D Senior Expert of SEW Eurodrive. “The MAX2982 provides the reliable powerline communications, low latency, and high speed that we require to deliver our industry-leading products,” Hien added. “We were pleased to work with SEW Eurodrive and prove the value that Maxim(R) powerline products can provide to industrial applications,” James Bates, Vice President of Signal Processing and Conversion for Maxim, concluded.

Open Architecture Facilitates Optimized Applications

The MAX2982 is fully compliant with HomePlug 1.0 and its programmable application interface enables market-optimized firmware. A full range of interfaces includes 10/100 Ethernet, UART, USB, JTAG, MII, RMII, and high-speed FIFO. Boot code options allow application-specific MAX/PHY profiles, and each profile can be optimized for a variety of parameters. An upgradeable MAC enables application-specific spectral shaping, including bandwidth and notching capabilities. There are 24 general-purpose input/output (GPIO) pins for data handshaking and signaling across a network.

The MAX2982 transceiver can be coupled with the MAX2981 powerline analog front-end (AFE) and line driver for a complete broadband powerline chipset. The MAX2982 is available in a 128-pin lead-free LQFP package. Pricing starts at $12 (25k, FOB USA). For more information please visit: www.maxim-ic.com/Industrial-PLC.