Some experience with a British a.c. network analyser

Some analysis of the probable performance of a power system has always been a necessary preliminary to the detailed design of the apparatus. Such analysis has become increasingly important as the complexity of systems has grown, and is more vital than ever to-day, in the interests of economy as well as those of technical adequacy. For some years it has been the practice in the United States to test the soundness of proposals for new construction upon circuit models. Elsewhere, reliance has mostly been placed upon analytical methods, but it has often been found impossible to make a comprehensive study without a prohibitive amount of work. After reviewing briefly the kinds of analysis which may be needed, and the methods of solution available, the paper describes a British a.c. network analyser and discusses some examples of studies made with its aid. Details are given of a procedure which has been found satisfactory.