Power lines were originally devised to transmit electric power from a small number of sources (the generators) to a large number of sinks (the consumers) in the frequency range of 50-60 Hz. Initially, the first data transmissions over power lines were primarily done only to protect sections of the power distribution system in case of faults. (In fact, power line protection remains one of the primary functions of power line communications.) In such an event, the fast exchange of information is necessary between power plants, substations 4
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