Smarter time sync: Applying the IEEE PC37.238 standard to power system applications

Synchronization plays an important role for many functions of the electric power systems. The PC37.238 draft standard specifies precise time distribution for power system applications. As the standard is nearing completion, its usage for specific applications needs to be better understood. This paper explains how this new time distribution applies to the most demanding applications, namely synchrophasors and IEC 61850 process bus.