Interoperability of consumer control and monitoring networks over the AC powerline

A hierarchical powerline network architecture built upon a token passing media access control sublayer, a low level link protocol enabling error correction, and a spread spectrum physical layer, each optimized for the powerline and for mutual interaction, is presented. The interface at the data-link layer provides different standards with the required powerline backbone for both current and potential control and monitoring applications in the home. Applications can be designed to coexist with other potential powerline applications. In addition, interoperability at the application layer can be realized