Open systems and databases [power system control]

An introduction to the issues pertaining to power system open systems and databases is provided. The intent is to assist understanding of some of the underlying factors that affect choices that must be made when selecting a database system for use in a control room environment. The major database information models which are in common use for database systems are described and compared. An overview of the Structural Query Language (SQL) is given. A case that the control center community should follow the workings of the nonformal standards bodies is made, and possible uses and the benefits of commercially available databases within the control center are discussed. The reasons behind the emergence of industry-supported standards organizations such as the Open Software Foundation (OSF) and SQL Access are presented