A PC-based system to assist researchers in electric power distribution systems analysis

A PC-based system has been developed as an aid to research in power engineering. This system was developed using off-the-shelf hardware cards, and a commercially available software package that provides a high-level programming “shell” for hardware interfacing/control and graphic user interface development. The system consists of a data acquisition unit and a waveform generator. The data acquisition unit can monitor and record actual field measurements, whereas the waveform generator is able to recreate analog versions of stored data in a laboratory environment. The system has been used to test a prototype high-impedance fault detection unit which is under development. The system can also be used as an aid in classroom instruction. The design and development of the system reflects a simple cost-effective way for students to gain valuable practical experience in developing hardware/software-based systems within a reasonable length of time