This module provides an overview of distribution automation and how it can be an enabling technology for the smart grid. It describes the components of distribution automation: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA); Multiple Address System (MAS) communications infrastructure; technologies involving distribution lines, switches, reclosers, regulators, switched capacitors and network protector relays. The benefits of distribution automation are reviewed. Pole-top transformers and Integrated Distribution Management System (IDMS) and their relationship to smart grid are explored.