Grid integration necessary to support rising solar use

Citing an IHS study, the news source explained that the market for sensors used in utility settings is poised to double during the 2012 to 2014 period, an increase that is closely related to increased dependence on solar. Solar energy can flourish when these sensors and other grid elements are integrated effectively.

Get terminal servers if you want solar power
Another challenge associated with using solar energy as part of an integrated grid setup is a need for more geographically varied transformer stations. This creates a major problem from a data communication standpoint because most technologies in such settings depend on serial connection, while the smart grid is usually built on Ethernet. As a result, serial to Ethernet terminal servers are emerging as a key component of smart grid systems, especially in cases when utility companies are depending on solar power and other forms of geographically distributed power generation.

Perle offers a range of cost effective serial-to-Ethernet converters to help meet NERC-CIP compliance for the protection of critical cyberassets in substations. The IOLAN SDS HV/LDC Terminal Server is designed to meet harsh environments associated with Power Substations with attributes such as support for substation AC and DC voltage ranges, extended operating temperatures and meeting emission, immunity and safety approvals associated with substation IT equipment.