Optimizing plant performance through power distribution monitoring

The introduction of the microprocessor into metering, protection and control products throughout the power distribution system has provided stand-alone devices with the ability to communicate the information used to perform their standard functions back to a central monitoring point cost effectively. The author focuses on the benefits to overall plant productivity and efficiency as a result of these devices and their inexpensive communication capabilities. Topics covered include device evolution, communications the value of monitoring using so-called smart devices, and the cost of power monitoring