Smart grid upgrades should be 'surgical'

According to the news source, one of the other major advantages of a targeted upgrade rollout is the opportunity to become an early adopter of new technologies. From improved media converters to the latest smart meter options, firms that target deployments will be able to make smaller improvements that are more cost efficient, enabling small-scale upgrades to the latest technology if so desired. This will balance cost versus any potential risk for an early adopted technology, and help ensure the functionality of these tools as well.

Overall, such an approach can drive revenues and profit as well as growth, as long as utilities plan their hardware rollout carefully and ensure they are investing the most critical systems first.

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.