Introduction and architecture of microprocessor relays based substation automation systems

The electric power industry is in the process of intensive integration of intelligent electronic devices in substations and power systems. The success of this effort is to a great extent a function of the development of a universal platform that will allow microprocessor based protection and control devices to interoperate over the substation local area network or the utility wide area network. Microprocessor based multifunctional protective relays are the preferred intelligent electronic device (IED) in today's substation integration or substation automation systems. However, the process of relay integration is slowed down by the fact, that each relay manufacturer typically uses a proprietary communications protocol and user interface software.