IEC 62056-8-6:2017

Overview

IEC 62056-8-6:2017 is part of the internationally recognized IEC 62056 series, focusing on standards for electricity metering data exchange. This standard specifically addresses the use of the DLMS/COSEM suite over high speed power line communication (HS-PLC) networks, referencing ISO/IEC 12139-1 for neighbourhood networks. By defining how the DLMS/COSEM data model and application layers are mapped onto PLC-specific lower communication layers, IEC 62056-8-6 enables robust and scalable smart metering and data exchange across modern electricity distribution systems.

Key Topics

• DLMS/COSEM Communication Profile: Defines how the DLMS/COSEM application layer interfaces with HS-PLC technology, providing guidelines for use over ISO/IEC 12139-1-compliant networks.
• Physical and MAC Layers: Specifies reliance on the physical and medium access control (MAC) layers of ISO/IEC 12139-1, leveraging Discrete Multi-Tone (DMT) modulation.
• Adaptation Layer Architecture: Details a layered approach using a Common Part Adaptation Sublayer (CPAS) and Service Specific Adaptation Sublayers (SSAS) for mapping data between application and physical/network levels.
• Address Resolution: Introduces mechanisms for address mapping and resolution between IP, MAC, and protocol-specific addresses within the network.
• Profile Structure: Supports data communication via either HDLC-based data link layers or IP-based network layers, ensuring flexible deployment in varied smart metering environments.
• Target Environment: Designed for low voltage neighbourhood networks, with the potential to support other applications like IoT due to high data throughput capabilities.

Applications

The IEC 62056-8-6:2017 standard has practical relevance for electrical utilities, smart grid solution providers, and device manufacturers seeking to:

• Enable Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI): Foster efficient two-way data exchange between electricity meters and head-end systems, supporting billing, load control, and tariff management.
• Enhance Network Communication: Utilize high speed PLC technology to overcome bottlenecks in neighbourhood networks, especially important for advanced services like dynamic pricing and remote management.
• Promote Interoperability: Ensure seamless integration of various smart metering devices from different manufacturers by adhering to standardized communication profiles.
• Leverage Existing Infrastructure: Deploy high speed data communication over existing power lines, reducing installation costs for meter reading and home automation systems.
• Support for IoT Applications: Expand network utility by accommodating Internet of Things (IoT) devices that require reliable and high bandwidth data exchange in local energy networks.

Related Standards

IEC 62056-8-6:2017 forms a vital part of the DLMS/COSEM suite and interacts with several other international standards to deliver a comprehensive framework for meter data management:

• IEC 62056-1-0: General framework and architecture for smart metering standards.
• IEC 62056-46: Data link layer using HDLC protocol.
• IEC 62056-4-7: Transport layer for IP networks.
• IEC 62056-5-3: Application layer for DLMS/COSEM.
• IEC 62056-6-1: Object Identification System (OBIS) for metering data.
• IEC 62056-6-2: COSEM interface classes relevant to device functions and data structuring.
• ISO/IEC 12139-1: The underlying physical and MAC layer requirements for high speed PLC neighbourhood networks.

Practical Value

By implementing IEC 62056-8-6:2017, stakeholders in the electricity sector can enhance data exchange reliability, scalability, and interoperability across smart metering systems. The standard supports high-speed, standards-based communication tailored for neighbourhood networks, making it a cornerstone for the effective rollout of next-generation smart grids and energy management solutions.

Keywords: IEC 62056-8-6, DLMS/COSEM, high speed PLC, ISO/IEC 12139-1, electricity metering data exchange, neighbourhood networks, smart metering, IEC standards, power line communication, interoperability.