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 Challenge
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| Utilities are characterized by their expansive infrastructure, from substations to power plants and transmission lines. While many electric utilities use legacy DNP (Distributed Network Protocol) networks extensively, there are typically a variety of protocols used throughout any such operation, each provided by a different vendor. In a typical scenario, legacy RTU(remote terminal unit) devices collect data at remote locations (such as substations) for transport to a master RTU. However, in some cases, the data from these serial-based RTUs must be available to master devices that are Ethernet-based, with no serial interface. With many of these reliable serial-based RTUs in the field, and a significant investment in newer Ethernet-connected masters, facilitating communications between these devices could ultimately require costly replacements. |
Solution |
| Designed to help these operations utilize all of their existing equipment, regardless of protocol, Precidia's serial networking and routing devices are cost savers for utilities. Since Precidia's products are protocol independent, they bring together serial and Ethernet-based devices from multiple vendors over a common IP network. Managed and monitored by Precidia's management server, these products are easy to install and configure, and deliver features including SSL, automatic routing to a backup for disaster recovery, and remote access to device data. Products ideal for networking in a SCADA environment include: |
| SLynx220 |
| This multi-port serial networking router offers 2 available serial ports, and 2 incoming dial ports. Its features make it ideal for mission critical SCADA applications, with SSL encryption to secure data on private or public networks, as well as routing to multiple IP addresses. The SLynx220 analyzes the protocol to route data from serial SCADA controllers, RTUs, sensors or other devices, to the appropriate EID (Intelligent Electronic Device). The SLynx220 also features automatic dial back-up for enhanced reliability. The SLynx220 is actively managed by NetVu™, Precidia's Management Server. |
| iPocket232 |
| This compact, plug and play adapter connects RS232 equipment to IP networks via Ethernet. The low cost iPocket232 features one RS232 interface, and is ideal when simple serial networking is required. For example, serial-based RTUs that measure gas flow can be connected to an IP network, allowing a SCADA system to poll them for data. The iPocket232 is DIN Rail mountable, and is actively managed by NetVu™. |
| NetVu |
| NetVu is a powerful management server driving enhanced remote management and monitoring for utility operations. NetVu delivers valuable tools to enhance SCADA operations with deployment, monitoring, management and troubleshooting. The configuration for each Precidia device can be pre-configured on NetVu (available from a standard web browser on any PC), so that installation in the field is plug and play. Once deployed, the Precidia device sends periodic 'heartbeats' to NetVu, which can then send an alarm via SMS or email if any interruptions occur. NetVu also allows network administrators to access valuable data on the device's activity, making it ideal for monitoring power allocations in real-time during high-demand periods. |
Application Diagram |
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Benefits |
- Low cost serial networking and routing
- Eliminates cost of upgrading legacy equipment
- Simplified real-time device monitoring and management
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- Highly reliable and secure with alerts
- Lowers installation and support costs
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| Customer Testimonial |
| "The SLynx220 saves us the thousands of dollars that would be required to undertake substation redesign where legacy RTUs are in use. With this device, we can also analyze traffic and customize its flow between RTU and IEDs. The SLynx220 works effectively and delivers a wealth of data that simplifies utility operations. In addition, it can accommodate many of our other protocols". |
David Jimenez
Telecommunications Technician/Electrician
Great River Energy |
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