Time synchronizing unit for measurement and monitoring

The technological advancements combined with convergence of computer and communications have made it possible to overcome erstwhile limitation. In the case of power sector, the integrated measurement, monitoring, protection and control has been a long felt necessity. This is achieved with the aid of various techniques, technologies and protocols all of which can ensure desired performance of SCADA systems for substation and grid operation. Synchronization of time has become an important criterion in the modern era of computer, communications and control system. Especially for billing and fault analysis both in communication and in power sector, time synchronization to a common time tag is becoming a defacto standard. Due to advent of VLSI and communication systems, global positioning system (GPS) based time synchronization solutions are now available at an affordable cost and accuracy to utilities. Central Power Research Institute, Bangalore (India) developed a time synchronizing unit (TSU) that would be the stratum ONE time source for down line equipment and other related functions. The unit was tested at field for its performance. This paper would discuss the development aspect of the TSUs along with test result.