Name a better duo than the
1-RU PLC Hybrid and the
PLC Test Board…can’t think of one? Neither can we. The PLC Test Board was designed specifically to work in tandem with the 1-RU PLC Hybrid to increase testing functionality and convenience while also saving space.
We created a design that allows the PLC Test Board to slide into an existing unused slot of the 1-RU PLC Hybrid chassis, eliminating the need for more space to house an additional piece of equipment. The PLC Test Board is electrically inserted between the panel’s final coax input/output going to the line tuner in the substation yard. If you have hybrids, then it is placed at the end of the hybrid chain going to the line tuner. You can customize your 1-RU Hybrid chassis to put up to four PLC Test boards into the chassis if desired. This intentional design of our PLC Test Board saves panel space and gives front and rear test access to carrier signals that leave and enter the panel.
To increase safety when utilizing the PLC Test Board in conjunction with the 1-RU PLC Hybrid, we replaced the panel carrier grounding knife with a front panel latching safety test switch. The safety test switch allows for safe operation in test mode as well as when performance testing. You’ll know the safety test switch is activated when it turns orange. The switch will then open the coax path between the IN and LINE test points, and simultaneously terminate either side of the opening with an appropriate wattage 50 Ω resistor. Using this switch to isolate the line tuner provides a quick way to verify if the line turner is affecting the transmit level and reflected power.
You can also determine the status of the RF signal by the dual color light displayed on the front panel. Green indicates the board is in test and red indicates it’s in service. This LED is powered by the carrier signal itself, and its intensity varies with the carrier signal level. It lights brightly for a 10 watt level and dimly for a one watt level. This is handy for a quick visual verification that the expected carrier signal is being sent. It’s fast responding, so it shows checkback test coded pulsing when used and makes it easier to see what state the unit is in.
All new 1-RU Hybrids can be equipped with up to four PLC Test Boards at the time of purchase. We can also retrofit the PLC Test Board into existing units. Visit our website to learn more or contact us to place an order. For insight into the PLC Test Board in a real-world application, check out the case study we put together with American Electric Power (AEP).