Broadband over powerline
Background
Broadband over power line (BPL) communications is a technology that uses electricity networks for the transmission of data, voice and video. Using the electricity network to conduct BPL signals will result in leakage of radiofrequency emission into the surrounding environment that may interfere with radiocommunications services. Potentially affected radiocommunications services include defence operations, shortwave broadcasting, maritime and aeronautical communications, radio astronomy, amateur radio and a number of short range applications.
ACMA is working with industry and community stakeholders to investigate the necessity for regulatory arrangements to address issues specific to the deployment of BPL services. ACMA is working with stakeholder peak bodies to develop arrangements that do not unnecessarily inhibit BPL deployments but preserve the uitility of the radicommunications spectrum.
More information describing BPL can be found by clicking here.
ACMA discussion paper
In April 2005, ACMA issued a discussion paper on the management of interference from BPL applications. More than 270 submissions were received on the discussion paper Word 97-2000 (1 mb) or PDF (182 kb).
Click here to view the submissions.
The submissions received have provided ACMA with valuable background information to assist it in considering appropriate arrangements for the management of interference for BPL systems and to gauge public opinion on the potential issues presented by BPL deployments.
Information on BPL Deployments in Australia
ACMA, through liaisons with industry, is closely monitoring BPL developments around Australia. If you are considering deploying or implementing a BPL system in Australia you are advised to contact ACMA prior to commencing any deployment.
