SUPERVISORY CONTROL AND DATA ACQUISITION (SCADA)

LECTURE 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction:

SCADA is an acronym that stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. SCADA refers to a
system that collects data from various sensors at a factory, plant or in other remote locations and then
sends this data to a central computer which then manages and controls the data. SCADA systems are
used not only in industrial processes: e.g. steel making, power generation (conventional and nuclear)
and distribution, chemistry, but also in some experimental facilities such as nuclear fusion. The size of
such plants range from a few 1000 to several 10 thousands input/output (I/O) channels. However,
SCADA systems evolve rapidly and are now penetrating the market of plants with a number of I/O
channels.

Definition of SCADA: A collection of equipment that will provide an operator at remote location with
enough information to determine the status of a particular piece of a equipment or entire substation
and cause actions to take place regarding the equipment or network.

What is SCADA?
How : By collecting Information from plant / Load centre bend reducing it to the EMS
Where : Control Centre. Both at Plant and Load
Why : To gather Information as here (voltage, current, frequency, power, circuit breaker status) and
To perform online actions

SCADA systems are used to monitor or to control chemical or transport processes in municipal water
supply systems, to control electric power generation, transmission and distribution, gas and oil
pipelines, and other distributed processes. Supervisory control and data Acquisition (SCADA)
achieves this requirement collecting reliable field data through remote terminal units (RTUs) Intelligent
Electric Devices (IEDs) and presenting them to user requirement. The user interface or the man
machine interface (MMI) provides various options of data presentation according to specific
application and user needs. There are many parts of a working SCADA system. A SCADA system
usually includes signal hardware (input and output), controllers, networks, user interface (HMI),
communications equipment and software. All together, the term SCADA refers to the entire central
system. The central system usually monitors data from various sensors that are either in close
proximity or off site.

An industrial measurement and control system consisting of a central host or master (usually called a
master station, master terminal unit or MTU); one or more field data gathering and control units or
remotes (usually called remote stations, remote terminal units, or RTU's); and a collection of standard
and/or custom software used to monitor and control remotely located field data elements.
Contemporary SCADA systems exhibit predominantly open-loop control characteristics and utilize
predominantly long distance communications, although some elements of closed-loop control

SCADA is an acronym that stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. SCADA refers to a
system that collects data from various sensors at a factory, plant or in other remote locations and then
sends this data to a central computer which then manages and controls the data. SCADA systems are
used not only in industrial processes: e.g. steel making, power generation (conventional and nuclear)
and distribution, chemistry, but also in some experimental facilities such as nuclear fusion. The size of
such plants range from a few 1000 to several 10 thousands input/output (I/O) channels. A SCADA
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system usually includes signal hardware (input and output), controllers, networks, user interface
(HMI), communications equipment and software. All together, the term SCADA refers to the entire
central system. The central system usually monitors data from various sensors that are either in close
proximity or off site (sometimes miles away).

Systems similar to SCADA systems are routinely seen in factories, treatment plants etc. These are
often referred to as Distributed Control Systems (DCS). They have similar functions to SCADA
systems, but the field data gathering or control units are usually located within a more confined area.
Communications may be via a local area network (LAN), and will normally be reliable and high speed.
A DCS system usually employs significant amounts of closed loop control. SCADA systems on the
other hand generally cover larger geographic areas, and rely on a variety of communications systems
that are normally less reliable than a LAN. Closed loop control in this situation is less desirable.

SCADA generally comes under the branch of Instrumentation Engineering. The term SCADA stands
for Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition. SCADA systems are used for controlling and monitoring
chemical or transport processes and can be used in a factory environment such as electric power
generation, water supply systems, gas and oil pipelines or any other distributed processes. A typical
SCADA system comprises of i/o signal hardware, controllers, software, networks and communication.
SCADA system is normally used to monitor and control a remote site or a distribution that is spread
out for a long distance. An RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) or a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is
usually used to control a site automatically. The SCADA system also provides a host control functions
for the supervisor to control and define settings. For example, in a SCADA system a PLC can be used
to control the flow of cooling water as part of an industrial process. At the same time the supervisor
can use the Host control function to set the temperature for the flow of water. It can also have alarms
and can record the flow of water temperature and report back to the SCADA system. The RTUs and
PLCs are responsible for data collection such as meter readings, equipment status etc and
communicate back to the SCADA system. This data can be stored in a database for later analysis or
monitored by a supervisor to take appropriate actions if required.

SCADA systems typically implement a distributed database, commonly referred to as a tag database,
which contains data elements called tags or points. A point represents a single input or output value
monitored or controlled by the system. Points can be either "hard" or "soft". A hard point is
representative of an actual input or output connected to the system, while a soft point represents the
result of logic and math operations applied to other hard and soft points. Most implementations
conceptually remove this distinction by making every property a "soft" point (expression) that can
equal a single "hard" point in the simplest case. Point values are normally stored as value-timestamp
combinations; the value and the timestamp when the value was recorded or calculated. A series of
value-timestamp combinations is the history of that point. It's also common to store additional
metadata with tags such as: path to field device and PLC register, design time comments, and even
alarming information.

1.2 SCADA SYSTEMS

A SCADA system refer to a system consisting of a number of remote terminal units (or RTUs)
collecting field data connected back to a master station via a communications system. The master
station displays the acquired data and also allows the operator to perform remote control tasks. The
accurate and timely data (normally real-time) allows for optimization of the operation of the plant and
process. A further benefit is more efficient, reliable and most importantly, safer operations. This all
results in a lower cost of operation compared to earlier non-automated systems.

A successful SCADA installation depends on utilizing proven and reliable technology, with adequate
and comprehensive training of all personnel in the operation of the system. There is a history of
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unsuccessful SCADA systems – contributing factors to these systems includes inadequate integration
of the various components of the system, unnecessary complexity in the system, unreliable hardware
and unproven software. Today hardware reliability is less of a problem, but the increasing software
complexity is producing new challenges. It should be noted in passing that many operators judge a
SCADA system not only by the smooth performance of the RTUs, communication links and the
master station (all falling under the umbrella of SCADA system) but also the field devices (both
transducers and control devices). The field devices however fall outside the scope of SCADA in this
manual and will not be discussed further. A diagram of a typical SCADA system is given opposite.

The RTU provides an interface to the field analog and digital signals situated at each remote site. The
communications system provides the pathway for communications between the master station and
the remote sites. This communication system can be radio, telephone line, microwave and possibly
even satellite. Specific protocols and error detection philosophies are used for efficient and optimum
transfer of data. The master station (and sub-masters) gather data from the various RTUs and
generally provide an operator interface for display of information and control of the remote sites. In
large telemetry systems, sub-master sites gather information from remote sites and act as a relay
back to the control master station.

SCADA technology has existed since the early sixties and there are now two other competing
approaches possible – distributed control system (DCS) and programmable logic controller (PLC). In
addition there has been a growing trend to use smart instruments as a key component in all these
systems. Distributed control system (DCS), is another variant of SCADA where data acquisition and
control functions are performed by a number of distributed microprocessor-based units situated near
to the devices being controlled or the instrument from which data is being gathered. DCS systems
have evolved into systems providing very sophisticated analog (e.g. loop) control capability. A closely
integrated set of operator interfaces (or man machine interfaces) is provided to allow for easy system
configurations and operator control. The data highway is normally capable of fairly high speeds.
Another variant of SCADA components widely used is the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC).
PLCs have replaced hardwired relays with a combination of ladder– logic software and solid state
electronic input and output modules. They are often used in the implementation of a SCADA RTU as
they offer a standard hardware solution, which is very economically priced.

1.3 Evolution of SCADA

1890’s Remote Control and Remote Indication
1920’s Tele command and control
1930’s Check Before Operate (CEO)Systems
Based on Electro Mechanical Technology
1960’s Supervisory Control Systems (Remote Control & Status Indication)
1960’s Data Acquisitions gaming Popularity (DAS) SCADA came into being.
1980’s Load Dispatch Centre and Control
1990’s Energy Control Centre
2000’s Energy Management Systems

1.4 Objectives of SCADA:

The important objectives of SCADA are to listed below:
1. Monitoring : Continuous monitoring of the parameters of voltage , current, etc..
2. Measurement: Measurement of variables for processing.
3. Data Acquisition: Frequent acquisition of data from RTUs and Data Loggers / Phasor data
Concentrators (PDC)..

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 4. Data Communication: Transmission andreceiving of large amounts of data from field to control
centre’s.
5. Control: Online real time control for closed loop and open loop processes.
6. Automation:: Automatic tasks of switching of transmission lines, CBs, etc.

1.5 Benefits of SCADA:

The important benefits of an EMS can be addresses as the following functions:
1. Continuous monitoring of process.
2. Real time control.
3. Automation and Protection.
4. Remote control and operation.

1.6 Functions of SCADA:

The important functions of an SCADA are listed below
1. Data Acquisition
2. Information Display
3. Supervisory Control
4. Alarm Processing
5. Information Storage and Reports
6. Sequence of Event Acquisition
7. Data Calculation
8. Special RTU Processing/Control

1.7 SCADA IN PROCESS CONTROL

There are two types of process-control systems in view i) distributed control systems (DCS) and ii)
supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA). DCS are typically used for single-point processing
and are employed in a limited geographic area. On the other hand, SCADA systems are used for
large-scale, distributed management of critical infrastructure systems and are often geographically
dispersed. For example, in a power utility, DCS may be used for generation of power, while SCADA is
used for the distribution and transmission of power. The basic SCADA configuration shown in Figure
1, consists of a supervisory control station and multiple controller stations, either local or remote.
Through the use of the control station, operators can monitor status and issue commands to the
appropriate devices. Control stations consist of devices that collect data or effect control of
equipment. These devices are remote terminal units (RTU), intelligent electronic devices or
programmable logic controllers (PLC).

1.8 SCADA APPLCIATIONS

SCADA is not a specific technology, but a type of application. SCADA stands for Supervisory Control
and Data Acquisition— any application that gets data about a system in order to control that system is
a SCADA application.

A SCADA application has two elements:

1. The process or system that needs to be monitored and controlled.

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 2. A network of intelligent devices that interfaces with the first system through sensors and
control outputs. This network, which is the SCADA system, gives the ability to measure and
control specific elements of the first system. One can a SCADA system using several different
kinds of technologies and protocols. This white paper will help you evaluate your options and
decide what kind of SCADA system is best for your needs.

1.9 Usage of SCADA

SCADA can be used to manage any kind of equipment. Typically, SCADA systems are used to
automate complex industrial processes where human control is difficult. For example in systems
where there are more control factors unable to be managed by operators in a control centre.

SCADA systems are widely used for control in the following domains
1. Electric power generation, transmission and distribution: Electric utilities use SCADA
systems to detect current flow and line voltage, to monitor the operation of circuit breakers, and to
take sections of the power grid online or offline.
2. Water and sewage: State and municipal water utilities use SCADA to monitor and regulate water
flow, reservoir levels, pipe pressure and other factors.
3. Buildings, facilities and environments: Facility managers use SCADA to control HVAC,
refrigeration units, lighting and entry systems.
4. Manufacturing: SCADA systems manage parts inventories for just-in-time manufacturing,
regulate industrial automation and robots, and monitor process and quality control.
5. Mass transit: Transit authorities use SCADA to regulate electricity to subways, trams and trolley
buses; to automate traffic signals for rail systems; to track and locate trains and buses; and to
control railroad crossing gates.
6. Traffic signals: SCADA regulates traffic lights, controls traffic flow and detects out-of-order
signals.

1.10 Real-Time Monitoring and Control using SCADA

The following are the important features of a SCADA from an control point of view. SCADA is capable
of the following

1. Acquire quantitative measurements immediately and over time

2. Detect, Diagnose and correct problems as soon as they arise
3. Measure trends over time and prepare reports and charts
4. Discover and eliminate bottlenecks over time and improve efficiency
5. Ability to Control large and complex processes with a few specialized staff.

SCADA provides the facility to fine-tune the operators experiential knowledge in to the system.
Sensors can be placed at every critical point in the process to be managed and controlled. As SCADA
technology improves, more sensors can be placed to improve efficiency. SCADA has the ability to
view the operation of large power process in real time through software. GIS (Geographical
Information System) is one such software widely used in electric power applications. With such am=n
ability it is possible to correct errors and diagnostics

So even for very complex manufacturing processes, large electrical plants, etc., you can have an
eagle-eye view of every event while it’s happening — and that means you have a knowledge base
from which to correct errors and improve efficiency. With SCADA, you can do more, at less cost,
providing a direct increase in profitability.

1.11 SCADA FUNCTIONS

A SCADA system performs four functions:
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 1. Data acquisition
2. Networked data communication
3. Data presentation
4. Control

These functions are performed by four kinds of SCADA components:

1. Sensors (either digital or analog) and control relays that directly interface with the managed
system.
2. Remote telemetry units (RTUs). These are small computerized units deployed in the field at
specific sites and locations. RTUs serve as local collection points for gathering reports from
sensors and delivering commands to control relays.
3. SCADA master units. These are larger computer consoles that serve as the central processor
for the SCADA system. Master units provide a human interface to the system and automatically
regulate the managed system in response to sensor inputs.
4. Communications network that connects the SCADA master unit to the RTUs in the field.

1.11.1 Data Acquisition

First, the systems you need to monitor are much more complex than just one machine with one
output. So a real-life SCADA system needs to monitor hundreds or thousands of sensors. Some
sensors measure inputs into the system (for example, water flowing into a reservoir), and some
sensors measure outputs (like valve pressure as water is released from the reservoir). Some of those
sensors measure simple events that can be detected by a straightforward on/off switch, called a
discrete input (or digital input). For example, in our simple model of the widget fabricator, the switch
that turns on the light would be a discrete input. In real life, discrete inputs are used to measure
simple states, like whether equipment is on or off, or tripwire alarms, like a power failure at a critical
facility. Some sensors measure more complex situations where exact measurement is important.
These are analog sensors, which can detect continuous changes in a voltage or current input. Analog
sensors are used to track fluid levels in tanks, voltage levels in batteries, temperature and other
factors that can be measured in a continuous range of input. For most analog factors, there is a
normal range defined by a bottom and top level. For example, you may want the temperature in a
server room to stay between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature goes above or below
this range, it will trigger a threshold alarm. In more advanced systems, there are four threshold alarms
for analog sensors, defining Major Under, Minor Under, Minor Over and Major Over alarms.

1.11.2 Data Communication

In our simple model of the widget fabricator, the “network” is just the wire leading from the switch to
the panel light. In real life, you want to be able to monitor multiple systems from a central location, so
you need a communications network to transport all the data collected from your sensors. Early
SCADA networks communicated over radio, modem or dedicated serial lines. Today the trend is to
put SCADA data on Ethernet and IP over SONET. For security reasons, SCADA data should be kept
on closed LAN/WANs without exposing sensitive data to the open Internet. Real SCADA systems
don’t communicate with just simple electrical signals, either. SCADA data is encoded in protocol
format. Older SCADA systems depended on closed proprietary protocols, but today the trend is to
open, standard protocols and protocol mediation. Sensors and control relays are very simple electric
devices that can’t generate or interpret protocol communication on their own. Therefore the remote
telemetry unit (RTU) is needed to provide an interface between the sensors and the SCADA network.
The RTU encodes sensor inputs into protocol format and forwards them to the SCADA master; in
turn, the RTU receives control commands in protocol format from the master and transmits electrical
signals to the appropriate control relays.

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1.11.3 Data Presentation
The only display element in our model SCADA system is the light that comes on when the switch is
activated. This obviously won’t do on a large scale — you can’t track a lightboard of a thousand
separate lights, and you don’t want to pay someone simply to watch a lightboard, either. A real
SCADA system reports to human operators over a specialized computer that is variously called a
master station, an HMI (Human-Machine Interface) or an HCI (Human-Computer Interface). The
SCADA master station has several different functions. Themaster continuously monitors all sensors
and alerts the operator when there is an “alarm” — that is, when a control factor is operating outside
what is defined as its normal operation. The master presents a comprehensive view of the entire
managed system, and presents more detail in response to user requests. The master also performs
data processing on information gathered from sensors — it maintains report logs and summarizes
historical trends.An advanced SCADA master can add a great deal of intelligence and automation to
your systems management, making your job much easier.

1.11.4 Control
Unfortunately, our miniature SCADA system monitoring the widget fabricator doesn’t include any
control elements. So let’s add one. Let’s say the human operator also has a button on his control
panel. When he presses the button, it activates a switch on the widget fabricator that brings more
widget parts into the fabricator. Now let’s add the full computerized control of a SCADA master unit
that controls the entire factory. You now have a control system that responds to inputs elsewhere in
the system. If the machines that make widget parts break down, you can slow down or stop the widget
fabricator. If the part fabricators are running efficiently, you can speed up the widget fabricator. If you
have a sufficiently sophisticated master unit, these controls can run completely automatically, without
the need for human intervention. Of course, you can still manually override the automatic controls
from the master station. In real life, SCADA systems automatically regulate all kinds of industrial
processes. For example, if too much pressure is building up in a gas pipeline, the SCADA system can
automatically open a release valve. Electricity production can be adjusted to meet demands on the
power grid. Even these real-world examples are simplified; a full-scale SCADA system can adjust the
managed system in response to multiple inputs.

Summary:
This section provides the introduction to SCADA , its evolution, features, benefits and applications. SCADA has
many applications in various disciplines for monitoring and control in real time. Application of SCADA for real
time control of power networks is a challenge and subsequent sections describe the design and development of
SCADA system for computerized monitoring and control of a power system.

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 LECTURE 2: SCADA HARDWARE
2.1 Introduction:
A SCADA system consists of a number of remote terminal units (RTUs) collecting field data and
sending that data back to a master station, via a communication system. The master station displays
the acquired data and allows the operator to perform remote control tasks. The accurate and timely
data allows for optimization of the plant operation and process. Other benefits include more efficient,
reliable and most importantly, safer operations. This results in a lower cost of operation compared to
earlier non-automated systems.

SCADA system essentially has five levels or hierarchies, as listed below

1. Field level instrumentation and control devices: These analog and digital sensors situated at
each remote site
2. Marshalling terminals and RTUs: These provides an interface to the field devices

3. Communications system: Communications systems form the backbone of SCADA. The widely
used systems are wire, fiber optic, radio, telephone line, microwave and possibly even
satellite. Specific protocols and error detection techniques are used for efficient and optimum
transfer of data pathway for communications between the master station and the remote sites

4. The master station(s): The master stations gather data from the various RTUs provide an
operator interface for display of information and control of the remote sites

5. Information Technology (IT) Applications: The commercial information technology (IT) or data
processing department computer system.

2.2 SCADA Hardware Functions

There are many functions of SCADA; some of them are listed below.
a. Data Collection: collecting of the information via a RTU (remote terminal unit)
b. Data Transfer: transferring it to the central site
c. Data Processing: Carrying out any necessary analysis and control
d. Information Display: Displaying that information on operator screens or displays
e. Control Actions: Required control actions are then conveyed back to the process

2.3 Remote Terminal Units (RTU)

An RTU (sometimes referred to as a remote telemetry unit) as the title implies, is a standalone data
acquisition and control unit, generally microprocessor based, which monitors and controls equipment
at some remote location from the central station. Its primary task is to control and acquire data from
process equipment at the remote location and to transfer this data back to a central station. It
generally also has the facility for having its configuration and control programs dynamically
downloaded from some central station.

There is also a facility to be configured locally by some RTU programming unit. Although traditionally
the RTU communicates back to some central station, it is also possible to communicate on a peer-to-
peer basis with other RTUs. The RTU can also act as a relay station (sometimes referred to as a store
and forward station) to another RTU, which may not be accessible from the central station. The RTU
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provides an interface to the field analog and digital sensors situated at each remote site. The
communications system provides the pathway for communication between the master station and the
remote sites. This communication system can be wire, fiber optic,
radio, telephone line, microwave and possibly even satellite. Specific protocols and error detection
philosophies are used for efficient and optimum transfer of data.

The master station (or sub-masters) gather data from the various RTUs and generally provide an
operator interface for display of information and control of the remote sites. In large telemetry
systems, sub-master sites gather information from remote sites and act as a relay back to the control
master station. Small sized RTUs generally have less than 10 to 20 analog and digital signals,
medium sized RTUs have 100 digital and 30 to 40 analog inputs. RTUs, having a capacity greater
than this can be classified as large.

RTU Hardware:
The RTU Hardware consists of a set on inputs, outputs, memory and communications. There are
further classified as following

Inputs
a. Analog inputs (AI)
b. Counter inputs (CI)
c. Digital inputs (DI)

Outputs
a. Analog outputs (AO)
b. Digital outputs (DO)

Memory
a. Static and Dynamic Memory
b. Control processor and associated memory

Communications and Other equipment

c. Communication interface(s)
d. Power supply
e. RTU rack and enclosure

2.3 SCADA RTU

The SCADA RTU is a small rugged computer which provides intelligence in the field, and allows the
central SCADA master to communicate with the field instruments. It is a stand alone data acquisition
and control unit. Its function is to control process equipment at the remote site, acquire data from the
equipment, and transfer the data back to the central SCADA system. There are two basic types of
RTU - the "single board RTU" which is compact, and contains all I/O on a single board, and the
"modular RTU" which has a separate CPU module, and can have other modules added, normally by
plugging into a common "backplane" (a bit like a PC motherboard and plug in peripheral cards).

2.4 A typical single board RTU.

The single board RTU normally has fixed I/O eg 16 digital inputs, 8 digital outputs, 8 analogue inputs,
and say 4 analogue outputs. It is normally not possible to expand its capability. The modular RTU is
designed to be expanded by adding additional modules. Typical modules may be an 8 analog in
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module, a 8 digital out module. Some specialised modules such as a GPS time stamp module may be
available.

Hardware functionality in an RTU

The SCADA RTU is a small ruggedized computer. It has the following hardware features:

Memory
CPU and volatile memory.
Non volatile memory for storing programs and data.

Interface
I/O interfaces to DI/DO/AI/AO's.
Real time clock.

Communications
Communications capability either through serial port(s) or sometimes with an on board modem.
Power Equipment
Secure Power supply with battery backup.
Watchdog timer to ensure the RTU restarts if something fails.

RTU Software functions

All RTU's require the following functionality. In many RTU's these may be intermingled and not
necessarily identifiable as separate modules.Real time operating system, which can be a specific
RTOS, or it may be code that started out life as one big loop scanning the inputs, and monitoring the
communications ports. Driver for the communications system, which is the link to the SCADA Master.
Device drivers for the I/O system connecting to the field devices. SCADA applications like scanning of
inputs, processing and storing of data, responding to requests from the SCADA master over the
communications network. Some method to allow the user applications to be configured in the RTU.
This may be simple parameter setting, enabling or disabling specific I/O's or it may represent a
complete user programming environment. Diagnostics. Some RTU's may have a file system with
support for file downloads. This supports user programs, and configuration files.

2.5 Basic operation

The RTU will operate scanning its inputs, normally at a fairly fast rate. It may do some processing
such as change of state processing, time stamping of changes, and storage of the data awaiting
polling from the SCADA master. Some RTU's have the ability to initiate reporting to the SCADA
master, although more common is the situation where the SCADA master polls the RTU's asking for
changes. The RTU may do some alarm processing. When polled by the SCADA master, the RTU
must respond to the request, which may be as simple as "give me all your data", to a complex control
function to be executed. RTU's are specialty devices manufactured often by small suppliers in batches
of as little as one hundred. They are made for niche markets, and at the smaller end can be subject to
intense cost pressures. Therefore not all RTU's support all functionality. Larger RTU's may be capable
of processing hundreds of inputs, and even controlling smaller "sub RTU's". These are obviously more
expensive. The processing power of an RTU ranges from small 8 bit processors with minimal memory
to larger sophisticated RTU's capable of time stamping data to millisecond accuracy.

RTU Standards
As indicated RTU's are specialty devices. There has been a lack of standards, especially in the
communications area, and generally RTU's from one supplier cannot be mixed with RTU's from
another supplier. An industry has grown up developing protocol converters and emulators. Recently
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some standards have begun to emerge for RTU's. Some standards are i) DNPs and IEC870 for
communications and ii) IEC1131-3 for programming RTU's.

Difference between PLC and RTU

A PLC (programmable logic controller) is a small industrial computer which originally replaced relay
logic. It had inputs and outputs similar to those an RTU has. It contained a program which executed a
loop, scanning the inputs and taking actions based on these inputs. Originally the PLC had no
communications capability, but they began to be used in situations where communications was a
desirable feature. Communications modules were developed for PLC's, supporting ethernet (for use in
distributed control systems) and the Modbus communications protocol for use over dedicated (wire)
links. As time goes on we will see PLC's support more sophisticated communications protocols.

RTU's have always been used in situations where the communications are more difficult, and the
RTU's strength was its ability to handle difficult communications. RTU's originally had poor
programmability in comparison to PLC's. As time has gone on, the programmability of the RTU has
increased.

2.6 Features of SCADA

The important features of SCADA are the following:
1. Alarm Handling
2. Trend Curves Patterns
3. Data Access and Retrieval
4. Computer Networking and Processing

Alarms Handling
Alarm handling consists essentially of time stamped alarms to 1 millisecond precision. Single network
acknowledgment and control of alarms with Sharing and Displaying of Alarms to all clients in
chronological order. It performs Dynamic allocation of alarm pages and keeps track of deviation and
rate of change monitoring for analog alarms. It has the option of Historical alarm and event logging. It
is capable of performing On-line alarm disable and threshold modification with the option of preparing
Event-triggered alarms and Alarm-triggered reports

Trends curves
Trend curves and patterns consists of Trend zooming and display of data. It performs Export and
Archiving of historical trend data with Event based trends for Short and long term trend display. It has
the option of On-line change of time-base and retrieval of archived historical trend data.

Real Time access and archiving and database Management.

Real time access and data retrieval consists of Direct, real-time access to data by any network user
as well as Third-party access to real-time data. It has Network DDE compatibility for read, write and
exec with DDE to all I/O device points. ODBC driver support and Direct SQL commands or high level
reporting

Computer Networking and processing

Computer Networking and processing aspect of supports all compatible networks and protocols. It
has Centralized alarm, trend and report processing – data available from anywhere in the network and
Dual networks for full LAN redundancy. Open architecture design with Real-time multitasking are
important features with Client/server fully supported with Distributed project updates and Concurrent
support of multiple display nodes
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 LECTURE 3: SOFTWARE AND PROTOCOLS.

3.1 Introduction:

SCADA software is the most important aspect which runs on the hardware. Earlier SCADA was
mostly hardware and less on software. Presently, SCADA is 85% software and 15 % hardware.
SCADA software can be divided into two types, proprietary or open.

The important SCADA protocols can be classified into the following

DNP (Distributed Network Protocol) 3
IEC (International Electro Technical Commission) 60870

3.2 ISO MODEL

The working these protocols are based on the ISO or open systems interconnection model (OSI) are
shown below.

Fig.3.1a Schematic module of OSI model Fig.3.1b OSI seven layer model

The OSI Reference model has seven layers, the details of which are given below. The different layers
are categorized based on the functions they perform
No Layer Name Description
1 Application Layer This layer provides the network services to the user’s application
programs, even though actual application programs do not reside in this
layer.
2 Presentation Layer The presentation layer primarily takes care of data representation,
including encryption.
3 Session Layer The sessions layer performs the control of the communications or
sessions between the users takes place.
4 Transport Layer The transport layer manages the communications between the two end
systems
5 Network Layer The Network Layer is primarily responsible for the routing of messages
6 Data Link Layer The data link layer is responsible for assembling and sending a frame of
data from one system to another
7 Physical Layer The physical layer defines the electrical signals and mechanical
connections at the physical level

Page 1 of 4
3.3 DNP3 Protocol
DNP3 stands for distributed network protocol and it consist of a set of communication protocols used
between components which are used in process automation systems like electric utility, chemical
process plants, etc. The purpose of DNP3 is to accomplish communication between various types of
monitoring, data acquisition systems and control equipment. This protocol forms an integral part in
SCADA systems while interconnecting the RTUs and IEDs named as the Inter –Control Center
Communications (ICCP) protocol. ICCP is a part of IEC 60870 and is widely used in inter- master
station communications.

IEC 60870 was primarily design to allow important reliable communication between in electric utility
automation systems under situations of information distortion and transmission. Security of these
protocols is an important aspect to be considered. DNP3 protocols were not designed to be secure
from hackers and threats. There was a need to introduce security authentication to the DNP3
protocol. Presently it is in complaint with IEC 62315-5 and is regarded as a a set of best practices for
implementing SCADA-RTU master station communications.

3.3.1 Important Features of DNP3:

1. DNP3 protocol is characterised by important features that makes it interoperable with related
protocols like MODBUS, etc. This makes it more efficient and efficient for communicating
between components in SCADA systems.
2. DNP3, with reference to the widely used OSI model for communicating networks, corresponds
to layer 2, which provides multiplexing of various features like error checking, link control, data
fragmentation, etc.
3. DNP3 provides a transport function (layer 4) and Application layer (Layer 7) corresponding to
SCADA applications.
4. DNP3 has improved bandwidth efficiency which is accomplished through event oriented data
reporting.
5. DNP3 has good ability to handle error detection.

The DNP Protocol performs time synchronization with RTU, where time stamped variants of all data
point objects are reconstructed through a sequence of events. The DNP3 protocol has the added
advantage of supporting RTUs of different nature and complexity through four levels of subsets of the
protocols for RTU compliance. However this protocol tends to become more complex with increased
number of RTUs and interconnection.

3.4 IEC60870 PROTOCOL

IEC standard 60870 is widely used for controlling electric power transmission grids and other process
plants. This standard can be used for interoperating various equipment from different suppliers
through standardized protocols. IEC standard 60870 has six parts, defining general information
related to the standard, operating conditions, electrical interfaces, performance requirements, and
data transmission protocols. IEC 60870 provides a communication profile for tele-control messages
between two directly connected systems. This protocols provides tele-control and tele-protection of
electric power systems through associated tele-communication.

IEC 60870-5 has five parts:

IEC 60870-5-1: Transmission Frame Formats
IEC 60870-5-2: Data Link Transmission Services
Page 2 of 4
IEC 60870-5-3; General Structure of Application Data
IEC 60870-5-4; Definition and Coding of Information Elements
IEC 60870-5-5; Basic Application Functions

The two widely used protocols for SCADA Applications are

HDLC (High Level Data Link Control)
MODBUS

3.5 HDLC
HDLC (High Level Data Link Control) is a bit oriented code transparent synchronous data link layer
protocol developed by ISO. HDLC provides connection – oriented and connection – less service.
Though HDLC can be used for point to point multi point connections, but is preferable to use one to
one connections, known as asynchronous balanced mode (ABM). It forms the basis for all modern
protocols.

3.6 MODBUS PROTOCOL

MODBUS

MODBUS is a serial communications protocol originally published by MODICON in 1979 for use with
its programmable logic controllers. MODBUS protocol is simple and robust which has become a
widely used standard communication protocol for connecting industrial electronic devices. The
advantages of MODBUS protocol from an industry point of view are
1. Industry centric.
2. Open Source
3. Easy to use and deploy
4. Vendor independent

MODBUS allows communication between several devices connected to the network through RTUs in
SCADA. In this protocol, the master may initiate a MODBUS command to activate the connected
element / device. The command contains the MODBUS address of the device. Only the indented
device will act on receiving the command though other devices receive them. The MODBUS
command ensures that the command is received unchanged through an inbuilt checking information.

No standard way exists for a node to find the description of a data object,
there is no way for a field device to "report by exception"
Modbus is restricted to addressing 247 devices on one data link, which limits the number of field
devices that may be connected to a master station
Modbus transmissions must be contiguous which limits the types of remote communications devices
to those that can buffer data to avoid gaps in the transmission.
Modbus protocol provides no security against unauthorized commands or interception of data.

Page 3 of 4
 Companies develop proprietary software to communicate to their hardware. These systems
are sold as ‘turn key’ solutions. The main problem with this system is the overwhelming
reliance on the supplier of the system.

Open software systems have gained popularity because of the interoperability they bring to the
system. Interoperability is the ability to mix different manufacturers’ equipment on the same
system.

The widely used open software for SCADA systems are Citect and Wonderware.

Key features of SCADA Software are

• User interfaces
• Graphics displays
• Alarms
• Trends
• RTU (and PLC) interface
• Scalability
• Access to data
• Database
• Networking
• Fault tolerance and redundancy
• Client/server distributed processing

Summary:
This section describes the introduction to SCADA , its evolution and features and applications.

Page 4 of 4
 LECTURE 6: POWER SYSTEM AUTOMATION
6.1 Introduction:

Power System Automation is one of the important aspects in an electrical power network that needs
careful investigation. In power system automation, data acquisition system plays a major role as a
base of the power system automation. From the recent trends and developments in Power System
Automation, Computerized system Automation is most efficient compared to normal systems.
Computerized Power Network for Data Acquisition system helps the system and controller to meter
and monitor the values for further manipulations for full-scale power system automation and system
controlling.

The Computerized Data Acquisition for Metering and Monitoring of Power System Automation can be
divided into three general categories as Data collection, Metering & Monitoring. The Data collection
system collects the data from the Power system Network using the Digital Power Monitors through the
current transformers and potential transformers. The collected data will be Metered by the Digital
Power Monitor where the Monitor consists of a Micro Controller with the peripherals like memory, A/D
converter and Sample and hold circuitry. According to the programming done in the Microcontroller
the Power Monitor will store the parameters in the memory and it will do all the logical and arithmetic
calculations to manipulate the parameters and to calculate the different Power data’s like KWH,
KVAR, KVA, PF etc,. The collected parameters of the Power System and the calculated power data
can be monitored on the screen of the Digital Power Monitor. The values will be sent to the Computer
System using the Communication system like Serial Communication RS485 and RS 232 for n no of
Power Monitors using the Data Converter.

This section describes power system automation protection and control which is aimed at the
improvement of the management of power networks is being adopted by increasing by number of
supply authorities. Automation, Protection, Local control, Operator interfaces, Communication,
Remote control and Monitoring functions, most of which were previously utilized with relays or
modules for each function, are now integrated into multi-function PLC (programmable logic Controller)
based units and interconnected on various types of local area networks. The components of the
system will have a better communication with each other sharing information through the local area
network and systems work similarly because one sensor is enough to collect one network information
and transferred the information through out the network using LAN and communication mediums
instead of one sensor per each component as before. To achieve we need a better system apart from
different systems like protection, Communication, RTU’s, IED’s etc. called as Data acquisition system
with out the perfect data communication system the components of the total system cant perform the
right tasks at right time because of the disturbance in the collected. To overcome this problem we
have designed a better Data Acquisition system with the efficient technology and with the perfect
communication systems to transfer the data. The system is named as “Computerized Power Network
Data Acquisition and Monitoring for Power System Automation”. The system acquires the data from
the power network (data acquisition) for monitoring. The software was developed to do all the
manipulations and the parameters and data of the system can be viewed in different forms (analog,
digital, graphical). The software developed will be used to view the captured data’s from the Power
Monitor in different forms like Analog Metering, Digital data and in graphical form. The software will
generate the reports for all the different types of manipulations like power fail, CT or PT fail Low PF
etc, the software will save the data 6 times per day in form of reports.

Page 1 of 15
6.2 BENEFITS OF POWER SYSTEM AUTOMATION

Important benefits of automation can be listed as follows

1. Improved quality of service and reduced manpower requirements
2. Improved reliability with reduced system implementation costs
3. Maintenance/expansion of customer base and Reduced operating costs
4. High value service provider and reduced maintenance costs
5. Added value services with the ability to defer capacity addition projects
6. Improved customer access to information and also improved information for engineering
decisions
7. Enterprise information accessibility along with improved information for planning decisions
8. Flexible Billing Options and reduced customer outage minutes

6.3 POWER SYSTEM AUTOMATION

Power System Automation is a system for managing, controlling and protecting the various
components connected to the power network. It obtains the real time information from the system,
local and remote control applications with advanced electrical system protection. The core of power
system automation stands on local intelligence, data communications with supervisory control and
monitoring.

Structure of Power System Automation

The functional structure of power system automation will be as shown in fig 6.1.
 Electrical Protection
 Control
 Measurement
 Monitoring
 Data Communications

Fig 6.1 Functional structure of Power System Automation

Electrical Protection
Electrical Protection is the most important concept of the Power system Automation, to protect the
equipment and personnel and to limit the damage at fault. It is a local function and it has the capability
to function independently from the Automation if necessary, although it is a part of Power system
Automation the function of electrical protection never restricted in Power system Automation.

Control
Page 2 of 15
Control application of a Power system Automation includes local and remote control. Local control
consists of actions the control device can logically take by it self (Bay interlocking, switching
sequences, and synchronizing check). Human intervention is limited and the risk was greatly reduced.
Remote control functions to control Substations remotely from the SCADA. Commands can be given
directly to the remote control devices (open and close of circuit breakers, relay settings, requests for
information from the SCADA station). This eliminates the personnel performance switching
operations, actions can be performed faster. A safe working environment is created for personnel and
the operator or engineer at the SCADA has a complete over view of the entire Power network.

Measurement
Measurement is one of important concept in Power system Automation. The real time information
about a substation or equipment is collected and displayed in the control center and stored in a data
base for further manipulations, It erases the personnel to go to substation or switching area collect the
information cutting down workloads. The information collected can assist in doing network studies like
load flow analysis, planning ahead and preventing disturbances in the Power network. Previously the
word ‘Measurement’ refer to voltage, current and frequency, and the word ‘Metering’ refer to power,
reactive power and energy (KWh). The different terms used because different instruments were used
for these applications, now the two functions are integrated in modern devices hence the terms are
used interchangeably in the text.

Monitoring
Monitoring is specified for the maintenance of the Power system Automation. It monitors sequence of
records, status and condition of the system, maintenance information and relay settings etc. The
information can help in fault analysis, what where when why it happened. It is used to improve the
efficiency of the system.
Data Communication
Normally Communication forms a core for any system, in Power system Automation Data
communication forms core of the power system Automation. With out communication the local device
and protection tasks can be performed individually. But with out data communication there is no
mean to say Power system Automation.

6.2 ARCHITECTURE FOR POWER SYSTEM AUTOMATION

Figure 6.2 shows the generalized architecture for Power System Automation. There are three levels
which are connected to each other through communication medium.

Page 3 of 15
 Fig 6.2. Architecture for Power System Automation

Level 1: This level contains the field equipment and Switch gear, CTs, PTS, etc. Monitoring and
measurement of system parameters are carried out at this layer.

Level 2: This level contains the protection and control equipment. Protective relays, RTUS and IEDs
constitute this layer. The collected information for layer 1 is processed here.

Level 3: This level contains the Operator Display and Engineering Workstation for executing the
programs. This level is also called as the Energy Management Systems (EMS) Level or Layer, where
network analysis programs are run for operating the system

Power system automation is concerned mostly with levels 1 and 2. The RTUs and IEDs on receiving
information determine the tasks to be carried out for automation. The usual tasks in automation are
1) Switching (on or off) of Equipment like Capacitors, Reactors
2) Network Switching (on or off) or Reconfiguration of Transmission or distribution lines
3) Changing settings on equipment (Transformer on-load tap changing),

Page 4 of 15
6.3 Classification of Power system Automation

a) Substation Automation
b) Distribution Automation

Substation Automation
Substation automation is not a new concept. Substations have been equipped to perform automatic re
closing, bus sectionalizing, load transfers, capacitor switching, etc. for many years. In the past, these
and other functions were implemented using a combination of control panels, auxiliary relays,
switches, lights, meters, transducers and extensive wiring and cabling. In many applications today,
this perception is probably because developments in substation equipment have expanded the
potential capabilities of substation. Automation far beyond that which could previously be reasonably
accomplished. The principal development is generically defined as an Intelligent Electronic Device
(IED) which typically consists of one or more Programmable Logic Controllers and communications
ports; with the ability to transmit data and execute control commands, and frequently provide a local
user interface. Typical examples are relays, meters, and specialized sensors. Prior to the introduction
of Numerical relays, the protection and control of a very small substation consisting of one incoming
line, one transformer and two feeders would require four large panels filled with relays, switches and
lights. Only one panel is required when Numerical relays are used. Interestingly, at the same time the
space requirements are reduced by a factor of four, so the installed cost.

Advances in communications technology are used to tie everything together into a useful network.
Within the substation, a single high-speed Local Area Network (LAN) is used to transmit data and
control commands, replacing the extensive and costly cables that had been required. At the present
time, a number of different LAN techniques and protocols are in use. The industry is actively working
on development of a new standard LAN definition that will be based on the use of Ethernet and
Manufacturing Messaging Specification (MMS) and will be compatible with the Utility Communications
Architecture (UCA). There are already many techniques for moving data out of the substation to a
master station or to other substations. These include the use of leased or dedicated telephone lines,
dial-up phone lines, cellular telemetry techniques, satellite transmissions, various flavors of radio
techniques and fiber-optic networks. Basically, this variety of communications methods results in the
ability to transmit large amounts of information at a rapidly declining cost per bit. The combination of
PLC based devices and communications technology creates the ability to obtain more information
about the power system and the equipment being used. Power system variables include magnitude
and angle of voltages and currents, real and reactive power, frequency, power factors etc. Information
is available regarding the initiating event for relay operation, the location of faults, and fault analysis.
Specialized sensors and transducers are used to build a database relating to equipment condition and
use; so that analysis techniques can be used to determine equipment condition and base
maintenance activities on actual condition rather than time schedules. Within the substation, the use
of Programmable Logic Controllers or other types of computers opens up a vast array of automation
possibilities. Complex schemes for dead bus and dead line re-closing can be implemented, with the
sequence being based on actual power system conditions that exist at the time. Re-closing of circuits
can be modified based on cold load pickup requirements. Load transfers between busses and
transformers can be made to protect against transformer overloads. Bus voltages and power factors
can be tightly controlled to minimize losses or voltage variations. Supplementary measurements and
inputs can be used to initiate automatic equipment re energizing after a transformer or bus differential.

Distribution Automation
Distribution Automation systems have been defined as system that enable an electric utility to
monitor, coordinate and operate system components in a real time mode from remote locations the

Page 5 of 15
distribution automation is modular and may be implemented in phases to include remote monitoring
and control of substation, feeder and consumer devices and loads.

The goals of Distribution Automation are:

 Reduced costs
 Improve service reliability
 Better consumer service
 Enhance government relations

Distribution Automation system postulates are:
 Deferred capital expenditures
 Reduced operations and maintenance expenses
 Improved outage response and restoration
 Enhanced system efficiencies
 Enhanced consumer satisfaction
 Improved data information
 Positive public image

Distribution Automation system de postulates are:
 Prevent outages
 Alleviate the need for a sound maintenance program
 Replace good operation practices
 Eliminate the need for appropriate planning
As utility managers and engineers interested in effective approaches to increasing efficiency and
productivity the latest “high tech” developments must be continuously reviewed by the utility.
Increased competition has led large existing and potential commercial consumers to carefully
evaluate both the direct cost of electric service and the monetary value of reliable electric service.
These activities in conjunction with increased awareness by residential consumers of even the
shortest loss of electric service have resulted in increased emphasis by regulatory agencies in
qualifying the cost to consumers of outages. It is important to identify the costs and benefits of each
project including the value of improved reliability to the consumer.

1.4 Problem Description

The problem at hand is to develop a better Data Acquisition System. This involves the hardware and
the software used in a Data Acquisition system and Power System Automation. This paper focuses on
developing the hardware and software for the system. The software component can be considered
the soul of the data acquisition system as it is the very presence of software as the decision making
entity in the system that makes the system unique. All existing data acquisition systems had to
undergo hardware changes in order to change the settings or functional parameters. This involved the
tedious task of rewiring the existing system. The fact that data acquisition system makes the base of
the power system automation in all the causes of various applications and simple software to monitor
the total system with the acquired data makes the problem at hand simple. For instance, earlier, if the
data to be collected from the system or from the components of the system the controller or engineer
should go to the field with a large equipment and the time take for the collection of data will be very
high and where the data collected data is not accurate it will not matches with the calculated values
and the decision making for any thing is to difficult where the data what we have is not sufficient to do
some thing these are the problems exists in the previous data acquisition system.

Data acquisition refers to acquiring, or collecting, data. This data is collected in the form of measured
analog current or voltage values or the open or closed status of contact points. Acquired data can be

Page 6 of 15
used locally within the device collecting it, sent to another device in a substation, or sent from the
substation to one or several databases for use by operators, engineers, planners, and administration.

In order to overcome the situation digital technology has been adopted for the better data acquisition
system. The digital system will have a sampling rate where it samples each data collected from the
systems, takes the average of the data and gives the perfect accurate value of the system value
which can be useful to do any manipulations at the effective. The computerized power network uses
the PLC based Data Acquisition technology which collects the data from the Power system through
the sensors and transducers and sends the data to the PLC the system will manipulate the data and
sends the data to the human interface system. The controller will have the better understand on the
system situation and he can take perfect decision at right time. The Digital systems are programmable
so they have the capability to understand the situation of the system and they can take the pre
commanded decisions without the interference of the human, which increases the efficiency of the
total system.

Monitoring
The word monitoring in Data Acquisition means the over view of all the system. The acquisition
system will collect the data from the Power system network and store the online data in the main data
base, and it will be monitored at the controller section on the HMI. As the acquisition system is self
programmed the decisions can be made by the system also where normally the controller won’t have
that information. So the system monitoring will have the complete view on the total system means the
online system parameters, decisions taken by the system, time of system shutdown, switch on relay
trip fault location, type of fault, power drawn by the bus bars etc. where using this the controller can
say that what the system is doing at any particular time while he have the perfect command on the
total system

. Meter Placement
The placement of meters also plays a role in the Power system Automation and Data Acquisition
system. If the meters are placed as such with out any perfect survey some of the meters m ay be over
loaded and some of them may ideal so unnecessary things will arise in the system. The solution is to
have optimal placement of meters using the developed software for the optimal placement of meters
we can find out where the meters to be placed from the n number of nodes where the system will
have the better working part and cost effective.

1.5 IMPLEMENTATION OF POWER SYSTEM AUTOMATION AND PROTECTION USING SCADA

The Computerized power network data Acquisition and monitoring for Power system Automation have
been implemented using part of software and hardware. The hardware involves different type of
digital, communication equipment with a Computing system. The software involves the data collection
and monitoring software with the AMP (Automatic Meter Placement).

5.1. Hardware Development

The Computerized Power Network for Data Acquisition Metering & Monitoring System for Power
System Automation have been adopted to a small proto type substation model as shown in fig.6.3a
and fig 6.3b. The details of Data Acquisition Metering & Monitoring System are shown in fig.6.4a and
fig 6.4b. The Power Monitors were connected at the Generation and Distribution end. The data will be
collected by the system using the Data Converter and the RS 485 and RS 232 serial Communication
systems.

Page 7 of 15
 Main Source MHTBB Reserve Source RHTBB

CT1 CT2

CB1
CB2
HTBB
IS2 IS1
PT1
CB3

CT3

TRANSFORMER

CB4

CT4
LTBB

PT2
CB5 CB6

CT5 CT6

LOAD 1 LOAD 2

Fig 6.3(a). 33/11 KV Substation Fig. 6.3(b). 33/11 KV Proto type Substation

The selected 33/11 KV substation single line diagram. In the Computerized Power Network for a scale
down Substation model, the Power monitors were connected at the 33KV Bus Bar and at 11KV Bus
Bar. The two meters were connected to the Data Converter through RS485 Connectors and the Data
converter is connected to the Computing system through RS232 connector the RS232 and RS485 are
the two types of different Serial Communication Systems used in the Power Network

Fig. 6.4(a) Data Acquisition System For SCADA Model Fig. 6.4(b) Data Acquisition System For SCADA Model

The Power Monitors will collect the data from the Power Network and the data will be manipulated
and different power system data’s will be calculated the data can be viewed on the LCD display of the
Power Monitor. The data will be sent to the Computing system through the Data converter and
RS485, RS232 two way Communication systems.

The simplified model for the Computerized Data Acquisition is shown in fig 6.5a. A simplified model
corresponding to figure 6.3a was developed in hardware and information for CT and PT were

Page 8 of 15
collected and sent tp the computer for processing. Fig 6.5b shows the digital meter which transmit
and receive information from the hardware model to the computer and vice versa

Fig .6.5(a) Schematic of Hardware Setup Fig .6.6(b) Monitoring and metering interface.

5.2. Software Programming

The Software is developed using Visual Basic and the Micro Soft access is used as the data base for
the software. The software consists of two parts one is automatic meter placement AMP and the
second one is Data Acquisition. Using the Data Acquisition software we can do all the manipulations,
report generations and we can view the same parameters and data in the software as an analog and
digital meters as shown the software will generate the failure reports daily schedule online reports and
the data reports for 6 times in a day. The online parameters and data can be viewed as analog and
digital data as shown in fig 6.7a and fig 6.7b

Fig 6.7(a) Three phase parameters in graphical view Fig. 6.7(b) Three phaseparameters in icon view

5.3. Control through Automation

Control refers to sending command messages to a device to operate the control instruments and
power system devices the meters. Traditional supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA)
system relay on operators to supervise the system and initiate commands from an operator console
on the master computer. Field personnel can also control devices using front panel push buttons or a
laptop computer.

1.6 Simulation
The simulation is done using the developed hardware for 2 power monitors with the proto type
33/11KV substation model in the presence the Human Machine interface (HMI) and software and the
Page 9 of 15
different outputs have been verified and generated for the implementation and simulation studies like
report generation, power factor control and relay coordination etc.

6.1. Report Generation

The software will save the online data as a text file in the form of report for further reference, the
software will generate daily reports at 6 different timing in a day to plot the load curve and etc,. Fig
6.8(a) and 6.8(b) show the graphical view and on line reports by the software. The online parameters
and data can be viewed as a comparison chart. The online parameters can be viewed as a graphical
representation for different parameters as three phase parameters line parameters power factor
power KWH, KVA, KVAR. It will give the report generation in different forms for different fault
conditions or any abnormal conditions. Failure reports like online reports, power fail, CT fail, PT fail
and Low PF can be viewed as shown in fig 6.9a and 6.9b

Fig 6.8(a) Three phase currents in graphical view Fig 6.8(b) Online reports

Fig 6.9(a) Failure reports data base Fig 6.9(b) Failure reports

Page 10 of 15
 Fig .6.10(a) low power factor reports data base Fig .6.10(b) low power factor reports

6.2. Power factor Control

The power factor can be controlled using the meter and software developed whenever there is a low
power factor i.e., below 0.6 the meter will give alarm with a report saying that low pf as shown in fig. 9

6.3. Relay Coordination

The software and the meter hardware have the availability to control or operate the relays from the
HMI using the meter as the hardware. Whenever a fault occurred in the system the software will send
signal to the relay to trip

Page 11 of 15
6.7 SCADA Based Model for Automation and Digital Protection
A SCADA based power system automation model has been developed as a part of the course. A
laboratory based model for EMS-SCADA was used to supplement the course. . The stage by stage
development of the SCADA system which is used for EMS applications and SCADA testing is
presented and discussed.

Fig.6.14 SCADA based model for Automation and Digital Protection

Fig 6.14 shows the complete model of the SCADA based Automation and Digital protection System.
The schematic for the hardware is shown in fig 6.15.

Fig. 6.15 Schematic diagram for SCADA based model for of Automation and Digital Protection

Page 12 of 15
Local and remote monitoring and control were achieved from this model. Bothe Ethernet based
communication and fiber optic based communication were employed for automation and protection
respectively

Fig. 6.16 Integrated SCADA Hardware Model

Fig 6.16 shows the complete model and panels for Power System Automation, which consists of four
phases and Digital protection System,

1. Real time monitoring and Data Acquisition

2. Control, Automation ad switching of circuit breakers, capacitors and loads
3. Numerical Relaying and Protection
4. Web based remote monitoring and control

Fig. 6.17a Data Acquisition System For SCADA Fig. 6.17b Numerical Relay and Protection Panel

Page 13 of 15
Fig 6.17a shows the Data Acquisition System, (DAS) through digital meters. Fig 6.17b shows the
panel for numerical relaying and protection. The SCADA interface, operator setting and two numerical
over current relays can be observed.

Fig.6.18 Modular development of the Hardware model of SCADA System

Fig 6.18 shows the local and remote control modules housed in different locations. Real time
monitoring and decision making by the operator can be achieved by this system.

This complete model of SCADA based automation and numerical protection can be effectively used
by integrating numerical algorithms develop in house and testing them on the hardware model.
Several digital and numerical protection relaying algorithms have been developed by the students and
integrated into this model.

Page 14 of 15
References
1. A study on IEC 61850 based communication for intelligent electronic devices - Gwan-Su Kim,
Hong-Hee Lee; Science and Technology, 2005. KORUS 2005. Proceedings. The 9th Russian-Korean
International Symposium on; 26 June-2 July 2005 Page(s):765 – 770
2. Overview of IEC 61850 and Benefits - Mackiewicz, R.E.; Power Systems Conference and
Exposition, 2006. PSCE '06. 2006 IEEE PES; Oct. 29 2006-Nov. 1 2006 Page(s):623 - 630
3. IED Modelling for IEC61850 Based Substation Automation System Performance Simulation -
T.S. Sidhu, Fellow, IEEE and Yujie Yin, Student Member, IEEE; Power Engineering Society General
Meeting, 2006. IEEE;18-22 June 2006 Page(s):7 pp.
4. Remote Data Monitoring and Data Analysis for Substations - A Case Study in Implementation -
Dolezilek, D.; McDermott, B.;Power Systems Conference: Advanced Metering, Protection, Control,
Communication, and Distributed Resources, 2006. PS '06,14-17 March 2006 Page(s):496 - 500
5. Advanced SCADA concepts - Sciacca, S.C.; Block, W.R.; Computer Applications in Power, IEEE
Volume 8, Issue 1, Jan. 1995 Page(s):23 – 28

Page 15 of 15
 LECTURE 4: APPLICATIONS of SCADA

1.1 Introduction:

SCADA is widely used in different areas from chemical, gas, water, communications and power
systems. The list of applications of SCADA can be listed as follows.

1. Electric power generation, transmission and distribution: Electric utilities use SCADA
systems to detect current flow and line voltage, to monitor the operation of circuit breakers, and
to take sections of the power grid online or offline.
2. Water, Waste Water Utilities and Sewage: State and municipal water utilities use SCADA to
monitor and regulate water flow, reservoir levels, pipe pressure and other factors.
3. Buildings, facilities and environments: Facility managers use SCADA to control HVAC,
refrigeration units, lighting and entry systems.
4. Oil and Gas Trans & Distributions:
5. Wind Power Generation
6. Communication Networks:
7. Industrial Plans and Process Control:
8. Manufacturing: SCADA systems manage parts inventories for just-in-time manufacturing,
regulate industrial automation and robots, and monitor process and quality control.
9. Mass transit and Railway Traction: Transit authorities use SCADA to regulate electricity to
subways, trams and trolley buses; to automate traffic signals for rail systems; to track and
locate trains and buses; and to control railroad crossing gates.
10. Traffic signals: SCADA regulates traffic lights, controls traffic flow and detects out-of-order
signals.

4.2 SCADA in Power Systems:

SCADA is widely used in power systems. The applications for SCADA keep increasing day after day.
Some of the applications are

Comprehensive operational planning and control

Fuel resource scheduling
Optimum power flow
Network security
Economic dispatch
Generation dispatch control

4.3 Expected Benefits of SCADA for Power Systems

Improved quality of service
Improved reliability
Reduced operating costs
Maintenance /Expansion of customer base
Ability to defer capacity addition projects
High value service providers
Improved information for engineering decision
value added services
Flexible billing option
Improved customer information access
Reduced system implementation costs
Reduced manpower requirements
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4.4 Typical features of a substation SCADA system are as under
Substation parameter monitoring
Controlling electrical network components remotely
Safety tagging
High resolution time stamping
Sequence of event reporting for post event analysis
Additional features of substation control system
Demand side management
Volt/VAR control
Preventive maintenance
Fault detection isolation and restoration

4.5 SCADA for Power Utility Network:

The aim of power network utilities(PNU) software is to provide the electrical utility with tools which will
enhance the operation of the system in a very cost effective way.in the present scenario of low
budgets for power utilities to produce and distribute quality power at the minimum cost.This goal can
be achieved by proper operation of the electrical network and at the same time having real time data
about state of the network.This real time data can then be used for supervisory controlled changes of
the network parameters with effective guidance from distribution automation tools.The PNU software
utilizes the real time SCADA data.the real time network topology network component details & user
defined strategies to achieve the above mentioned goals.PNU uses a combination of mathematical
and logical techniques to provide the user with a host of applications for the purpose of distribution
automation.

4.6 Features of Power Network Utilities

 Component Modeling
 State Estimation
 Bad data suppression
 Contingency analysis
 Fault isolation/islanding
 Load shedding
 Volt/Var scheduling
 Dispatcher power flow
 Short circuit analysis
 Network topology processor

4.7 Objectives:
There are many objectives of SCADA System.

1. Improved overall System efficiency (capital & energy)

2. Increased penetration energy sources including renewable energy sources.
3. Reduced Energy Requirements in both the Transmission and Generation
4. Increased Relativity of sequence to essential loads.

4.8 Components of SCADA

There are many parts or components of a SCADA system, which include hardware (input and output),
controllers, networks, user interface, communications equipment and software. All together, the term
SCADA refers to the entire central system. The central system usually monitors data from various
sensors that are either in close proximity or off site (sometimes miles away).
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An industrial SCADA consisting of the following
1) a central host or master station unit or, master terminal unit (MTU);
2) one or more field data gathering and control units or remotes (usually called remote stations,
remote terminal units, or RTU's);
3) a collection of standard and/or custom software used to monitor and control remotely located
field data elements.
Contemporary SCADA systems exhibit predominantly open-loop control characteristics and utilize
predominantly long distance communications, although some elements of closed-loop control and/or
short distance communications may also be present.
Major components of SCADA:
1) A collection of equipments that is provide the operator at remote location with enough
information to determine the status of particular piece of equipment or entire substation or a
plant or a dynamic network and cause actions to take place regarding that equipment or
network without being physically present.
2) An arrangement for operator control and separation of remotely located apparatus using
multiplexing techniques once a relatively small number of interconnecting channels.
3) Collecting Data from remote electrical equipment and controlling then through suitable
communication medium.

Functions of SCADA
A SCADA system performs four functions:
1. Data acquisition
2. Networked data communication
3. Data presentation
4. Control

These functions are performed by four kinds of SCADA components:

1. Sensors (either digital or analog) and control relays that directly interface with the managed
system.
2. Remote telemetry units (RTUs). These are small computerized units deployed in the field at
specific sites and locations. RTUs serve as local collection points for gathering reports from
sensors and delivering commands to control relays.
3. SCADA master units. These are larger computer consoles that serve as the central processor
for the SCADA system. Master units provide a human interface to the system and automatically
regulate the managed system in response to sensor inputs.
4. The communications network that connects the SCADA master unit to the RTUs in the field.

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 LECTURE 5: IEC61850 Standard for SCADA
5.1 Introduction to IEC 61850
IEC 61850 is a standard for the design of substation automation and a part of the International Electro-
technical Commission’s (IEC) Technical Committee 57 (TC57) reference architecture for electric power
systems. Its is essentially a set of abstract data models which can be mapped onto a number of protocols.
Multiple protocols exist for substation automation, which include many proprietary protocols with custom
communication links. Interoperation of devices from different vendors would be an advantage to users of
substation automation devices. Hence a ‘standard’ for protocols was formed in the mid-90s – IEC 61850.

5.2 IEC 61850 - Fundamentals

IEC 61850 was developed using this in mind; hence fits the workability of IEDs like a glove! ‘Fundamental
architectural construct – “abstraction” of data items, which are independent of any underlying protocols. The
abstract definitions then allow “mapping” of the data objects and services to any other protocol that can meet
the data and service requirements. It was ‘Inspired’ by OSI 7 layered model. Fundamental architectural
construct – “abstraction” of data items, which are independent of any underlying protocols. The abstract
definitions then allow “mapping” of the data objects and services to any other protocol that can meet the data
and service requirements.

5.3 Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs)

In the earlier years, low bandwidth led to DAS comm. protocol optimizations; cost was the time it took to
configure, map and locate the various data-bits received. With increased bandwidth, emphasis shifted to the
components being able to “describe” themselves. With growing number of vendors and protocols, pertaining
to standards became a necessity – especially one which caters to the requirements for SA.IEC 61850 was
developed using this in mind; hence fits the workability of IEDs like a glove!

Intelligent Electronic Devices (IEDs) have been installed in the substations for more than a decade for
complete monitoring and control of power networks. Earlier Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) were
very popular in performing different monitoring, automation and control tasks in the substation. Now- a-days,
they are being replaced by IEDs. New Substation installations are equipped with IEDs which essentially
consists of microprocessor based protective relays, metering devices, programmable logic controllers, fault
and event recorders, etc. Power System Automation using IEDs help technology continuously monitor power
systems include modular hardware design, programmable logic capabilities, built in relay software testing
features and the availability of continuously increasing non-protective functions. The improved sampling rate,
processor speed, memory and other parameters, allow the relays to become indeed "intelligent", and work
with full capacity not only during system faults but also under "normal" system conditions, thus becoming the
lowest level in the distributed intelligence based Power System Integration System. Substation architecture
for data acquisition, protection and control architecture shown in Fig. _ below.

5.4 IED and SCADA

SCADA (Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition) is a combination of Telemetry and Data Acquisition.
Telemetry is a technique used for transmission and receiving of measured parameters such as voltage,
current, power, speed etc., Data Acquisition Method used to access and control information/data from the
equipment that is being controlled and monitored. Distributed Controlled System (DCS) is a specific type of
SCADA system for process control.

Difference between SCADA and DCS is that SCADA covers larger geographical areas involving a variety of
Telecommunication links such as radio and telephone on the other hand DCS is more confined to a particular
plant/process and mostly uses LAN for communication

The main components of a SCADA System are the following

1. Field Instrumentation
2. Remote Stations
3. Communications Network
4. Central Monitoring Station

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5.5 IED Based Substation Automation
Intelligent Electronic Devices are most widely used in the substation for monitoring and protective relaying.
They provide the bottom layer of intelligence in the substation and power system integration systems. IEDs ,
as protective relays perform the essential processing of the analog data from the substation environment,
such as currents and voltages. Analog or digital filtering techniques are applied to obtain the fundamental
components of current and voltage wave forms. These are further processed for protective relaying functions.
Typical functions of protective relaying are differential protection, inverse-time over current, etc. The main
advantages of IEDs are their ability to exhibit multi function relaying property. An IED based multifunctional
protective relay consists of sequence component filters, which will help generate the positive, negative and
zero sequence currents and/or voltages used in different protection schemes. These IEDs provide the real
time monitoring and forms the ‘intelligence’ to the substation. IEDs can also be used as devices for power
quality monitoring, real time control and advanced protection functions.

5.6 Substation Automation System (SAS) using IED:

The important requirements for SAS using IEDs are the following
High-speed IED to IED communication and Networking throughout the utility enterprise
High-availability, Guaranteed delivery times and Multi-vendor interoperability
Support for Voltage / Current samples data and Support for File Transfer
Auto-configurable / configuration support and Support for security.
With growing number of vendors and protocols, pertaining to standards became a necessity – especially
one which caters to the requirements for SA.

IEC 61850 – Object Structure

Each element of data within the logical node conforms to the specification of a common data class (CDC) per
IEC 61850-7-3. Each CDC describes the type and structure of the data within the logical node. Each CDC has
a defined name and a set of CDC attributes each with a defined name, defined type, and specific purpose.
Each individual attribute of a CDC belongs to a set of functional constraints (FC) that groups the attributes
into categories

ACSI and MMS

The Abstract Communication Service Interface (ACSI) models of IEC 61850 define a set of services and the
responses to those services that enables all IEDs to behave in an identical manner from the network behavior
perspective. IEC 61850-8-1 maps the abstract objects and services to the Manufacturing Message
Specification (MMS) protocols, a public and ISO standard protocol, of ISO9506.

IEC 61850 – Other features

The Sampled Values and GOOSE applications map directly into the Ethernet data frame for time-critical
processes. the MMS Connection Oriented layer can operate over TCP/IP or ISO; the Generic Substation
Status Event (GSSE) is the identical implementation as the UCA GOOSE and operates over connectionless
ISO services. All data maps onto an Ethernet data frame using either the data type “Ethertype” in the case of
Sampled Values, GOOSE, TimeSync, and TCP/IP or “802.3” data type for the ISO and GSSE messages.

The Process Bus

The Process layer of the substation is related to gathering information, such as Voltage, Current, and status
information, from the transformers and transducers connected to the primary power system process – the
transmission of electricity.IEC 61850 defines the collection of this data via two different protocol definitions,
namely, Part 9.1 which defines a Unidirectional Multidrop Point-to-Point fixed link carrying a fixed dataset
and Part 9.2 which defines a “configurable” dataset that can be transmitted on a multi-cast basis from one
publisher to multiple subscribers. Hence, possible to remotely acquire status information of IEDs too! (apart
from the Sampled Values)

SCL Substation Configuration Language (SCL

Substation Configuration Language (SCL), based on XML, specified by IEC 61850-6-1 to describe
configurations. The various SCL files include: system specification description (SSD) files, IED capability
description (ICD) files, substation configuration description (SCD) files, configured IED description (CID) files.

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SCL – Benefits
The benefits of SCL are Automation, Remote Configuration, Offline Configurations, Sharing of IED
configurations, Custom configurations, Elimination of discrepancies

Key Features and of IEC 61850

Abstract Model - Protocol Independent, Descriptive Strings for all data, Standardized Object Names, Self-
Describing Devices, Wide Range of High-level Services and SCL (Substation Communications Language)

Major Benefits of IEC 61850

Eliminates Procurement Ambiguity, Lower Installation cost, Lower Transducer cost, Lower Commissioning,
Migrations, Integration and Extension costs, Inter-device operability, Implementation of New capabilities

Current challenges with IED

Initial integration efforts by most vendors focused solely on providing data access and control of SCADA type
data to replace separate SCADA hardware like RTUs. Choosing to use SCADA protocols like Modbus, DNP
and UCA led to the problem that data not supported by these protocols were “trapped” inside IEDs and made
unavailable. As a result, IEDs tended to get underutilized.

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