The 2008 revision of IEEE C37.2 Standard for Electrical Power System Device Function Numbers, Acronyms, and Contact Designations

This paper describes the experiences when revising and updating a key IEEE Standard for Electrical Power System Device Function Numbers, Acronyms and Contact Designations. The paper cites the historical evolution of this Standard, dating back to 1928. The wide utilization of modern, multi-function, relays and many new functions made clear the need to update the 1996 verison of this standad. Also, the interweaving of communication facilities into protection and control requirements had to be addressed from function and designation points of view. The paper demonstrates the importance of involvement of IEEE members in the Standards and the need for continuing input from these members to ensure relevance to the present applications, coherence and compatibility with other industry standards and practices.