STM PLC modem suits multi-protocol smart meters
- October 21, 2024
- Steve Rogerson

Ready for use in forthcoming multi-protocol smart meters that enhance flexibility for handling energy data, ST Microelectronics’ ST85MM programmable powerline communication (PLC) modem natively supports field-proven Meters & More and Prime 1.4 smart grid standards.
The energy transition is happening everywhere and transforming the role of metering, as increasingly intelligent networks and new stakeholders demand extra information and more flexible access to usage data.
Swiss firm STM has long-term and close engagements with major utilities in Europe and worldwide, with leadership in Meters & More and Prime technologies with more than 60 million meters installed in the field based on STM technology. Building on that experience has now produced the ST85MM programmable modem with proven Meters & More and Prime technologies support.
“The demands placed on smart meters are changing to support new production and distribution models,” said Domenico Arrigo, general manager at ST Microelectronics. “Our new modem provides a future-proof foundation for advancement, leveraging our market-proven PLC system-on-chip architecture and our experience as a key member in all major industry alliances promoting standardisation.”
The ST85MM (www.st.com/en/interfaces-and-transceivers/st85mm.html) features programmable DSP and Arm Cortex-M4 core, able to run either Meters & More or Prime protocols and integrating the complete PLC analogue front end, and dedicated cryptographic engine for turnkey secure communication. The STLD1 line driver companion IC works with the ST85MM to complete the PLC communication function of the smart-meter design.
On top of the latest protocol capabilities, STM is also first in the market to announce Prime 1.4 hybrid PLC and RF certification for the base node. This leverages the advantages of powerline and wireless connectivity by combining the modem with the S2-LP low-power radio transceiver.
The ST85MM is available now in a 7 by 7mm QFN56 package. STM (www.st.com) is showing the device and smart grid multi-connectivity at this week’s Enlit Europe (www.st.com/content/st_com/en/events/enlit-europe.html) end-to-end energy expo in Milan.