Two standards development projects approved by IEEE

The IEEE Standards Association recently approved two new development projects focused on the improvement of smart grid functionality. According to Energy Business Review, projects are titled IEEE PC37.247 and PC37.248. These new standards would improve Phasor Data Concentrators for power systems and create a guide for common formatting for naming Intelligent Electronic Devices, respectively.

"The future standards from these two projects are intended to help electric utilities with commonality among naming structures, formats and conventions," said Bill Ash, strategic technology program director for the IEEE-SA. "The standards that apply to the smart grid with intelligent electronic devices and many others all require the same naming convention to accurately identify and comprehend the data collected from PDCs."

IEEE PC37.247 in particular is focused on the growth of smart grid capabilities. According to the news source, the standard would enhance the interoperability of grid-connected devices and systems that use syncrophasors or otherwise synchronize data with the provider. This standard would focus on the improvement of data aggregation, command handling, and performance testing. Optimizing these factors of smart grid operation would greatly enhance one critical area of operation - grid fault management.

Improving the location of and testing of grid faults is vital to the forward movement of smart grid technologies and deployment, Ash noted.

For utility providers and other organizations investing in smart grid solutions, these new innovations could be a great boon, but any investment into new technologies or standards also requires that adequate support systems are put in place, from terminal servers to the serial to Ethernet converters used to connect smart meters and appliances. By taking the time to invest in all of the necessary technology, rather than cutting corners, firms can be sure they are optimizing their grid performance and minimizing future costs.

Adopting the right media converters now will also help with the scalability of the network, providing support for future improvements and changes so that utilities can maintain their forward progress even as new innovations or standard development projects are introduced.

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.