Patent ID: 7492245
Filing Date: 2009-02-17
Classification: H01F,H04B

Abstract:
1. An inductive coupler for providing an interface between a power line and a communication device which communicates via the power line, wherein the power line operates at a potential between four and 140 kilovolts while accommodating a current having a frequency between 45 and 65 hertz, and wherein the communication device operates substantially at ground potential, said inductive coupler comprising: a nickel-zinc split ferrite core having material selected to provide a substantially flat frequency response between one and 50 megahertz; a clamping mechanism allowing the inductive coupler to clamp around the power line or around a utility line connected to the power line; and at least one lead for communicatively connecting the inductive coupler to the communication device, wherein the inductive coupler forms an air gap when the inductive coupler is clamped, wherein the air gap is substantially filled, and wherein the air gap is located at least at a location between halves of the split ferrite core.