Data transparency in PLC-based SCADA and metering protocols

Using a power line network as communication middleware between existing SCADA or metering applications and field devices, both not prepared to communicate over PLC, puts the burden on the communication system to ensure reliable communication within the timing constraints of the already existing protocols and devices. In this paper we show how the REMPLI communication system deals with the issues that arise when data transfer over multiple communication paths in the same communication medium is demanded together with the support of different, redundant communication media like ISDN or GSM while at the same transparently transporting application protocol requests, which the system is either not able or not allowed to modify.