Communication protocols in Smart Grids
Protocols are used depending on the size of the network
Wide area network, WAN
Protocol
Wireless (cellular networks 2G/3G/LTE, GPRS)
Advantages
The cellular network infrastructure has a large coverage area and is accessible; allows transmitting large amounts of information over long distances
Drawbacks
In order to have monthly access, the energy supplier has to pay for the cellular operator's infrastructure rent; in this case the energy supplier does not have access to the infrastructure.
Notes
In this case, the most optimal solution is the wireless interface
Neighborhood area network, NAN
1
Protocol
ISM Wireless Protocol
Advantages
Extensive coverage area; transformer bypass provided
Drawbacks
High dependency on the region's infrastructure; the so-called "dead zones" interfere with the installation and maintenance of equipment
Notes
Under certain topologies (e.g. US topology), it is possible to actively use
2
Protocol
IEEE 802.15.4g
Advantages
Extensive coverage area; transformer bypass provided
Drawbacks
Has not yet been approved as standard
Notes
Applicable in certain topologies
3
Protocol
ZigBee
Advantages
Low power consumption allows battery operation; affordable price; is a popular standard
Drawbacks
Information transfer rate is not high enough; small coverage area; when obstacles are encountered, communication quality is reduced
Notes
In the conditions of local networks, it is practically inapplicable
3
Protocol
First generation PLC (FSK, Yitran, Echelon)
Advantages
Affordable price
Drawbacks
The proposed reliability level does not allow for secure data transmission; insufficient bandwidth
Notes
For the implementation of intelligent power supply networks, the protocol has insufficient security and weak bandwidth.
4
Protocol
First generation narrowband OFDM (orthogonal frequency division multiplexing)
Advantages
In terms of range, bandwidth and transmission reliability, this solution is a better alternative to the FSK protocol.
Drawbacks
This protocol does not allow the transfer of information through transformers; low level of flexibility of the protocol: not compatible with the first generation.
PLC protocols
Notes
The high cost and low flexibility of the system require significant investment in its implementation.
5
Protocol
PLC Broadband
Advantages
High transmission speed
Drawbacks
This protocol does not allow for the transfer of information through transformers
Notes
In a large-scale architecture, infrastructure costs significantly exceed the cost of alternative solutions
6
Protocol
G3-PLC
Advantages
High level of reliability, long range; ability to transfer information through transformers; low infrastructure costs; frequent transfer of information due to high speed; compatibility with FSK protocol; open standard; IPv6 support
Drawbacks
Not currently approved as a standard (draft IEEE Z1901.2 for data transmission in smart grids).
Notes
In local conditions is the best solution, regardless of the region
Home area network, HAN
1
Protocol
ZigBee
Advantages
A popular solution; this standard provides an affordable price and low power consumption.
Drawbacks
Limited range; when obstacles are encountered, communication quality is reduced
Notes
When using water and gas meters, is the optimal solution for information transfer
2
Protocol
Wi-Fi
Advantages
High transmission speed
Drawbacks
Average coverage area; in the presence of interference in the form of walls and foundations of buildings there are problems with signal passage
Notes
Not able to meet the needs of utility companies, but is an acceptable solution for household applications
3
Protocol
First generation PLC (FSK, Yitran, Echelon)
Advantages
Affordable price
Drawbacks
Low noise immunity
Notes
Not applicable in case of large amounts of interference (home conditions)
4
Protocol
First generation narrowband OFDM (orthogonal frequency division multiplexing)
Advantages
In terms of range, bandwidth and transmission reliability, this solution is a better alternative to the FSK protocol.
Drawbacks
This protocol does not allow the transfer of information through transformers; low level of flexibility of the protocol: not compatible with the first generation.
PLC protocols
Notes
High price and low flexibility of the system require significant investments in implementation
5
Protocol
PLC Broadband
Advantages
The bandwidth is wide enough to ensure full performance
Drawbacks
In the conditions of local networks has an insufficient level of coverage
Notes
Not able to meet the needs of utility companies, but is an acceptable solution for household applications
6
Protocol
G3-PLC
Advantages
High level of reliability; information transfer rate is sufficient in home network conditions; IPv6 support allows interaction with a large number of devices
Drawbacks
Not currently approved as a standard (draft IEEE Z1901.2 for data transmission in smart grids).
Notes
In a home environment is the best solution, regardless of the region
To be continued
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