Evaluating and assessing a necessary generation change in network control systems

As a result of the rapidly advancing computer and communications technologies, a major technological shift is expected to take place within the next 5 to 10 years. Among other benefits, it will then be possible for one and the same digital network to be used for voice communication, data exchange and office communications. As a result, the cost of operating a power systems will be reduced considerably. Standardized interfaces and protocols will allow the computer system to be connected to the data network. Companies will increasingly aim at centralizing all data acquisition and maintenance work so as to eventually be able to eliminate redundant data maintenance activities previously performed on different computers. The introduction of open-system capabilities in the mainframe computer system, as a first step in the upgrading process, would allow the power system to be monitored from remote locations. Malfunction and switching-state information would be transmitted in the form text messages. In a second step, graphical representation of the power system´s operating status and even functions allowing network elements to be controlled in the graphics mode could be implemented. This would require a high-capacity data network and appropriate means of ensuring clear identification of transmitting and receiving stations. The power system could then be operated in two rather than three shifts. A stand-by crew on night duty could receive relevant information via a data line, allowing costs to be reduced even further. More importantly, the physical and psychological strain currently placed on the operating staff by their three-shift work will be eased, thus humanizing their working conditions without compromising system security