结合单片机和模拟前端实现PLC解决方案

　　结合单片机和模拟前端实现PLC解决方案

　　大量的嵌入式系统，从电机控制到智能能源应用都需要连接，而现有的电力线可能为这种连接提供最方便的媒体。此外，电力线通信（PLC）可能对智能家居至关重要。然而，电力线通信需要强大的数字信号处理（DSP）和模拟前端（AFE），能忍受恶劣的信号环境的交流线路。然而，DSP功能的微控制器（MCU）结合AFE可以处理中的应用。让我们看看一个可能的单片机/ AFE组合相对于智能家居，设计和开发工具，以及一些可供选择的电力线通信电路。

　　图1所示的德克萨斯仪器（TI）提供了一个智能家居的极好的概要。元素包括照明、暖通空调系统、家电和娱乐设备，这些设备都连接到家庭自动化网络。ZigBee等无线技术可以使某些网络连接，但电力线网络是家电等产品的明显选择。此外，公用事业和智能电表之间的通信是最容易使用的PLC。无线和电力线网络很容易通过桥梁连接。

　　Figure 1： In a smart home， power-line networks combine with wireless schemes such as ZigBee to link appliances， HVAC systems， and other network elements to a smart meter and the smart grid.

　　The smart-home concept includes elements that are primarily conveniences or luxuries， but also elements paramount to reducing power consumption and dodging a potential global energy crisis. Consumers would surely enjoy the convenience of programmable lighting control or the ability to remotely raise the thermostat on the hot tub. Those same control capabilities can slash energy use by ensuring that devices get powered off and by working with utility demand-management strategies.

　　Clearly the smart home concept is compelling， but there is an important cost angle as well. If the premium associated with adding communications capabilities to appliances and other home goods isn‘t affordable， the technology will not move forward. That cost angle is why it’s significant that relatively-low-cost MCUs can handle the task at hand.