Municipal utility providers entering the smart grid game

As fragmented smart grids and new municipal solutions take shape in the market, integration between diverse technologies is becoming critical, the study found.

Using terminal servers and media converters to resolve interoperability challenges
Hardware diversity represents one of the greatest integration roadblocks utility providers have to face, as electric companies have to deal with legacy network systems, contemporary connectivity systems and specialized serial technologies. Terminal servers and media converters can play a vital role in alleviating compatibility gaps across the entire smart grid landscape.

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.