Maxim Newport smart meter reference platform

Maxim has introduced the Newport smart meter reference platform that integrates the latest in metrology, security and powerline communications (G3-PLC) technology.

The platform gives utilities a way to evaluate smart grid technology and gives manufacturers a smart-meter design.

The platform integrates the 71M6541 energy-metering system on chip that provides 0.1% accuracy across a wide current range of 2000:1. The G3-PLC chipset, that includes the MAX2991 and MAX2992, features adaptive tone mapping, notching, and robust mode to ensure communication in the noisiest of conditions.

The MAXQ1050 secure microcontroller supports scalable encryption standards and protects against physical attacks from hackers.

The demands of new applications, such as EV reverse flow control, also mean that there are evolving requirements in smart grid implementation. The components in the platform can handle uncertainties such as security algorithms, different communication protocols and the need for field-upgradable meters.

By using this platform, designers can evaluate the MAX2991/MAX2992 G3-PLC compliant chipset, the 71M6541 metering SoC and the MAXQ1050 secure microcontroller for their next-generation smart meters.

The platform includes two communications sockets, allowing for independent neighborhood area network (NAN) and home area network (HAN) interfaces. Maxim’s G3-PLC chipset (MAX2991/MAX2992) is installed in one socket to provide communication for either meter to concentrator (route A), meter to in-home display and home gateway (route B), or both.

The chipset complies with the emerging IEEE(R) P1901.2 standard for OFDM-based communication over power lines and offers guaranteed interoperability. The MAX2992 also includes an on-chip CCM authentication coprocessor with AES-128 encryption/decryption.

The 71M6541 metering SoC provides the metrology for the platform. This features <0.1% accuracy over the -40 to +85°C industrial temperature range and 2000:1 current range.

The 71M6541 combines a programmable and customisable 32-bit metrology computation engine, a 22-bit delta-sigma ADC featuring the company’s Single Converter Technology; a 5 MHz 8051-compatible MPU core with a low-power RTC and digital temperature compensation; flash memory; LCD driver; UARTs; and I2C interface.

The platform is said to be the only solution that supports isolated shunt-metering that reduces BOM cost, while enhancing reliability and immunity to magnetic tampering.

The platform supports asymmetric encryption schemes such as elliptic curve and also protects against physical hacking.