Description
The PL460 is a programmable modem designed for narrow-band Power Line Communication (PLC). It can
operate with any PLC protocol within the frequency band below 500 kHz. The PL460 embeds the PLC line driver,
providing a highly integrated solution that reduces the total bill of materials, simplifies the layout, and eases the
modem design.
This device has been designed to comply with FCC, ARIB, KN60, and CENELEC EN 50065 regulations matching
requirements of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Energy applications. It supports state-of-the-art narrowband
PLC standards, such as G3-PLC, PRIME, and Meters and More, as well as any other narrowband PLC
protocols, simultaneously being a future-proof platform able to support the evolution of these standards.
The PL460 is designed to be driven by external Microchip host devices. Therefore, providing an additional level
of flexibility on the host side. The Microchip host device loads the proper PLC-protocol firmware in the PL460
before modem operation and controls the PL460 modem.
Features
The following are key features of the PL460 modem:
• Programmable Narrow-Band Power Line Communication (PLC) Modem
• Embedded PLC Class-D Amplifier
• Integrated PLC Front End:
– PGA with automatic gain control and ADC
– Digital transmission level control
– Supports two independent transmission branches for the PLC signal
– Up to 500 kHz PLC signal bandwidth
• Architecture:
– High-performance architecture combining CPU, specific co-processors for digital signal processing and
dedicated hardware accelerators for common narrow-band PLC tasks
• Cryptographic Engine and Secure Boot:
– Secure boot: supports AES-128 CMAC for authentication, AES-128 CBC for decryption
– Fuse programming control for decryption and authentication 128-bit keys
• Clock Management:
– 24 MHz external crystal for system clock
• Power Management:
– 3.3V external supply voltage for I/O, digital and analog
– 1.25V internal voltage regulator for the core
– 12V external supply for the PLC amplifier
– Optimized power modes for specific operation profiles, including Low-Power mode
• Package: Available in TFBGA-81, 10 mm x 10 mm, 1.0 mm pitch
• Temperature Range: Industrial (-40ºC to +85ºC)