Communications Versatility

The communication network is the key infrastructure for enabling automation within the substation fence to transformers, circuit breakers and other stranded utility equipment. Utilities will transition to two-way enabled networks and will most likely require multiple communication network technologies (e.g., fiber, radio, cellular, WiMax, etc.) to effectively meet different bandwidth requirements and to manage installation costs. Communication protocols will transition to standard, open protocols (e.g., IEC 61850). Data concentrators (protocol translators) will still be required to integrate with existing devices and manage the transition while building the future two-way communication foundation.

Cooper Power Systems has designed its Visual Asset Monitoring system to be flexible and versatile. Among its characteristics are the following attributes:

• Communications Agnostic: Cooper Power Systems has the technology and expertise to integrate sensors and controls, communications, and software to leverage existing customer investments and equipment. Yukon software platform manages existing sensors and controls and manages multi-vendor sensors (DR, CBC, asset monitoring). Yukon IED Manager (integration of CES) and SMP gateways enable communication and automation with any IED regardless of medium, protocol, vendor or vintage. Cooper supports field installations with qualified and experienced communications and project management leaders.
• Multiple Options: Cooper provides multiple communication network options, including 900 MHz, VHF, cellular, 1xRTT GPRS, WiMax, Wifi, TCP/IP, and more.
• Parallel Productivity: Cooper can accommodate multiple channels and protocols operating in parallel

Communication Path Studies

Cooper Power Systems recognizes reliable communication links as absolutely essential to every successful radio telemetry system installation. Each radio path of every Cooper radio telemetry system is evaluated by one of our communication specialists. Cooper provides thorough communication path analyses based on the following procedures:

Path Profiles

Path profiles are two-dimensional plots showing the location of the Central Master Station locations, the substations, and the terrain between them. The results will show if a clear “line of sight” exists between two locations. Path profiles are an essential part of every Cooper radio path study.

Example of Path Profile.

Topographic Maps

Topographic maps display site-specific terrain data in labeled and shaded-relief forms. Each site is pinpointed and labeled on the map based on the field data provided. This map provides an accurate layout and overall view of the telemetry system. A topographic map is provided as part of every Cooper radio path study.

Example of Topographic Map.

Bottom Line

Cooper Power Systems’ Visual Asset Monitoring solution gives utility personnel the information they need to quickly identify and analyze potential failure conditions, improve system reliability, increase equipment availability, lower the risk of expensive failures and reduce costs.

Cooper Power Systems provides utilities the Tools for Tomorrow—Today. To learn more about how Cooper Power Systems’ emerging technologies like Asset Monitoring can empower you, visit www.cooperpowereas.com or www.cooperpower.com or call our toll free number 1.800.827.7966.