A new approach for classification of data transmission media in power systems

Smart Grid denotes the integration of all elements connected to a power grid with a communication infrastructure. Recent communication systems are developed by multi layer architecture. The lowest layer in such systems is transmission media. The characteristics of the communication systems will be seriously influenced by the characteristics of its media. This paper classifies communication media of power systems as dependent or independent ones. A dependent media is part of power system which is normally owned by Independent System Operator (ISO) or distribution companies. In contrast, as an independent media, it is not normally part of power system and can be public or provided by data service providers. In this paper, first, a brief summary of popular media used in power systems is presented. Then, the two main classes of media are compared with each other.