OpenPMU technology platform for Synchrophasor research applications

OpenPMU, the Open Source Phasor Measurement Unit, is a platform for the development of Synchrophasor measurement technology in an open source manner. The OpenPMU design modularizes the key components of a Phasor Measurement Unit (PMU) into three subsystems; measurement, phase estimation and telecoms. The advantage to the researcher is that the interfaces between each subsystem are open and human readable, allowing for rapid integration of new work into an existing framework. This allows for new work to be prototyped rapidly and tested in an online environment. This paper introduces the OpenPMU technology platform. The subsystem modules and the methods of exchanging data are described. Present work on the platform is discussed and an open invitation to join the development process is extended to all.