eNewsletter

April 2009

End-to-End Security: The Smart Grid and AMI  for the 21st Century
By Jim Alfred, Director of Product Management, Certicom Corp.

A range of global forces are coming together that are leading to the mass deployment of new “smart” infrastructure in the utility industry. Often called Smart Grid and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), the concepts have been the topics of conferences and technology pilots for more than a decade. But a renewed emphasis on energy conservation and efficiency and calls for dramatically increased investment in infrastructure as a key component of government-led fiscal stimulus are giving dramatic new impetus to the desire to invest and deploy now.

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Newmar Releases Site Power Monitor for Remote Monitoring of Electrical Conditions
Newmar has released its new Site Power Monitor, which allows users to Web-enable and integrate intelligence into any site’s AC and DC power system for 24 hour/ seven day a week monitoring, alarm condition notification and data logging of vital electrical functions. All functions are programmable, accessible and managed via the Internet/TCIP or SNMP. The units allows for current conditions and a 30-day history log of AC and DC power status to be viewed remotely before dispatching personnel.
 
The Site Power Monitor is designed specifically for monitoring power supplies, rectifiers, batteries, converters, inverters, UPS’s, distribution panels and AC power at communication sites, base stations and outdoor enclosures via Ethernet or Wireless connection. The palm-sized unit can be rack, DIN-rail or wall-mounted and is easily adapted to virtually any make of power system via nine sensor input ports which allows capture and download of critical data via the internet for analysis and site history data-logging. Web page based programs are easily configured for site parameters with up to 50 user-defined alarm condition settings, with multiple automatic notification options by e-mail and mobile phone.

Sites without Internet access can use the monitor solely as a data-logging instrument that captures and retains a 30-day history file, ready for download to a laptop computer during site maintenance visits, for capturing site history and analysis of failure conditions.

New Cathodic Protection Monitoring System
Moore Industries' new cathodic protection monitoring system (CPMS) is specifically designed to monitor the current and voltage levels of one or two transformer rectifiers in impressed current cathodic protection systems. It provides an engineered, turnkey solution including the monitoring of specific VDC, mV and mA inputs, and the addition of digital communications protocol (dual MODBUS RTU, master or slave and Ethernet) required for monitoring Impressed Current systems.

The CPMS monitors the critical current and voltage levels of one or two transformer rectifiers used in cathodic protection systems. Each module provides four or eight, fully-isolated analog input channels and four discrete (contact closure) inputs. It concentrates this data onto one or multiple communication links, and transmits it long distances back to one or more host DCS, PLC or PC-based control systems.

The CPMS accepts up to four discrete alarm inputs from the monitored system. The CPMS can be programmed with internal set points that relate to normal operating conditions within the cathodic protection system. Should monitored parameters go outside of selected limits, or if power to the cathodic protection system is lost, the CPMS alerts the control system over the data link.

In addition to operating in a standalone mode, the CPMS integrates with any of Moore Industry's’ NET Concentrator System’s analog, temperature, discrete and relay I/O modules to allow up to 124 signal inputs and outputs to be transmitted long distances on one low cost data link. The CPMS also comes standard with dual Modbus RTU (RS-485) ports and one Ethernet (Modbus/TCP) port. An industry-standard OPC interface delivers plug-and-play integration with popular PC-based HMI/SCADA software packages. Additionally, one or both of the CPMS Modbus RTU (RS-485) ports can be configured as MODBUS master ports.

Satel Launches Satellar Digital Radio Modem System
Satel has launched its Satellar digital system, a smart radio modem combining TCP/IP-functionalities, a Linux platform for customer specific applications and a versatile modular structure. Whereas radio modems have been used to simply convey data, essentially replacing a cable in inconvenient locations, Satellar has been designed to do more. The central unit is essentially a computer with sufficient processing power and memory to run sophisticated software applications in addition to the operating system, IP-router and web configuration server.

Since fewer devices are needed on site, costs and complexity may be lowered without compromising functionality. Satellar units are designed to provide an environment for developing a customized solution for each application. At a wind power plant, for example, a Satellar network can monitor and control all wind turbines and allow an operator to adjust turbine settings from the office.

Modularity is another aspect in which Satellar brings a paradigm shift to the radio modem industry. The Satellar digital system offers different units that can be combined to construct a radio modem with the right functionalities for the specific location in question. The radio unit, which is the basic building block, can alone be used to access RS-232-based devices, for example, or act as a radio repeater. The central unit, with its TCP/IP-capabilities and a Linux platform, can be added to locations where more functionality is useful.

900 MHz Wireless Ethernet Radios Provide Communications in High-Interference Environments
Phoenix Contact's RAD-ISM-900-EN-BD is an industrial radio transceiver that brings Ethernet or serial data onto IP-based networks from remote locations, even in high-interference environments. 

The RAD-ISM-900-EN-BD uses the MOTR-9T radio platform, a 1 watt, frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) transceiver.  It operates in the license-free 902 to 928 MHz ISM band.  With the MOTR-9 radio, the user can configure over-the-air data rates up to 500 kbps. Adjustable packet sizes maximize data speed and minimize latency.  The radio also incorporates selectable 128/192/256-bit AES encryption to prevent unwanted intrusion and keep data secure.  

Multiple wireless communication streams allow simultaneous Ethernet, I/O control and serial ASCII device communications; all from a single radio without external gateways or additional serial wireless converters. 

With the radio's IT-friendly embedded software, any network PC with a web browser can configure the devices. The RAD-ISM-900-EN-BD is approved for use in Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations.

Spark-Ignited Gensets from Cummins Comply with New EPA Emissions Standards
Cummins Power Generation’s spark-ignited gas generator sets are certified to the new exhaust emissions standards required by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Cummins Power Generation has received EPA 2009 emissions certificates for five spark-ignited generator set models (GGMA, GGMB, GGMC, GGHE and GGHF) ranging in size from 20 kW to 80 kW. The EPA emissions regulation requires that generator set engines not certified from the manufacturer must be brought into compliance with the regulation by the owner or operator.

Electric Power Utilities Plan to Stay The Course with Projected Capital Spending Plans for T&D
In spite of the weakened economic conditions in countries around the world, electric power utilities are proceeding with investments in both their infrastructure and smart grid automation programs. The majority of the surveyed large public and private utilities are poised to continue their long-term capital investment programs as had been originally planned in January of 2008.

In a new study released by the Newton-Evans Research Company, a significant majority of the 110+ officials from 38 countries participating in the just-completed study indicated that capital spending for control systems, substation automation, smart grid related programs, distribution management, advanced metering rollouts, and infrastructure equipment for transmission and distribution grids will remain as originally projected a year ago. The one area with the outlook for most significant downward change in capital expenditures was distribution infrastructure. On the upside were planned increases for advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) initiatives and for new or upgraded grid control and monitoring systems.

The total amount of capital spending for transmission and distribution of electricity by electric power utilities around the world is currently estimated by Newton-Evans to be in the range of $90 to $105 billion. The 2009 outlook overall is trending toward that same range of spending.

Four key reasons for the continued relatively strong investment in transmission and distribution of electricity are: 1) regulatory pressure and mandates for service reliability improvements; 2) smart grid initiatives aimed at modernizing the power grid infrastructure and enabling energy efficiencies; 3) obsolescence of existing equipment; and 4) long-term investment view being necessary to accommodate future growth in electricity consumption. Frequently, utility capital projects are complex and multi-year in nature, so project deferrals are often out of the question, even when the overall economic outlook is poor.

The study includes feedback sections on investment plans for seven key areas and is further detailed by world region and by utility ownership type and size. Operations and maintenance budget plans are also reviewed. The 85-page report is priced at $395.00, and can be ordered online and downloaded from the Newton-Evans web site.

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. Becomes 100 Percent Employee-Owned
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. (SEL) is now 100 percent employee-owned. Founded by president and CEO Edmund O. Schweitzer, III Ph.D. in 1984, SEL employs 1,800 people worldwide and supports products in 126 countries. SEL employees previously held a partial stake in the privately held company. Transition to a 100 percent employee-owned structure is part of SEL’s long-term strategy for sustained growth, stability and customer focus.

“Transferring ownership of SEL to the employees is the most powerful way that SEL could secure long-run commitment to our industry, employees and community,” Schweitzer said. “Employee ownership will enable all of us at SEL to continue to contribute to making electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical. From a personal perspective, I love what I’m doing and look forward to continuing in my role as president and CEO for many years to come.”

Mouser Electronics and Honeywell Sensing and Control Expand Distribution Agreement to Include Europe
Mouser Electronics, Inc. has expanded its current franchise agreement with Honeywell Sensing and Control to distribute products in Europe. The European distribution of Honeywell Sensing and Control’s products is in keeping with Mouser’s international expansion strategy. Mouser currently has three European Customer Service Centers (Germany, Israel and England) with plans for additional centers in 2009.
       
“We are pleased to extend Mouser’s engagement with Honeywell. Their focus on rapid product introductions and their reach into the electronic design segment is very impressive,” said Bradd Schneider, vice president of Global Sales, Sensing and Control, Honeywell International.

NEMA Publishes ANSI C12.22 Protocol Specification for Interfacing to Data Communication Networks
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has published ANSI C12.22 Protocol Specification for Interfacing to Data Communication Networks. This new application-level standard describes the process of transporting C12.19 table data over a variety of networks. The wide variety of information that it covers will be necessary in the implementation of the smart grid.  

This new standard will advance interoperability among communications modules and meters. C12.22 uses AES encryption to enable strong, secure Smart Grid communications, including confidentiality and data integrity, and it is also fully extensible to support additional security mechanisms the industry may require in the future. 

Multiple vendors offer communication technologies that work in conjunction with C12.22, allowing utilities to choose options that make the most sense for their budget, objectives and service territory. Open standards like C12.22 help utilities evolve their systems over time by enabling new technology to interoperate with existing infrastructure.

“Interoperability allows utilities to utilize multiple communication networks or change communications technologies while maintaining their investment in the meter, said Ed May of the Electrical Metering Section. “In this way, we believe that open standards in general, and ANSI C12.22 in particular, help protect the investment that utilities, ratepayers, and shareholders make in advanced metering.”

Download the Latest Copy of Remote Magazine!

• IP Monitoring and Control Saves Money and Energy For Remote Alaskan School District
• The Next Frontier: A Look at the New Generation of SCADA
• Finding the Perfect RTU for Your Enclosures: 21 Key Criteria for Evaluating Monitoring Gear
• Maximizing Fieldbus Availability
• Watching Out for You
• Battery Power and Monitoring Considerations for Remote Locations
• Video Integrates with SCADA System to Improve Security at Madison, Wis. Water Utility
• New Products and Services

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April 2009
1-2, GlobalCon, Atlantic City, NJ. Contact www.aeecenter.org

1-3, CTIA Wireless, Las Vegas, NV, Contact www.ctia.org

1-3, ISC West, Las Vegas, Nev. Contact www.iscwest.com

6-7, Smart Grid Roadshow, Denver, Colo. Contact www.smartgridroadshow.com

15-17, Advanced Battery Manufacturing, Washington DC, Contact www.infocastinc.com

18-23, Telecom 2009, Las Vegas, Nev. Contact www.teamlightbulb.com/telecom2009

19-23 54th ISA Analysis Division Symposium, Houston, Texas Contact www.isa.org/AnalysisSymp

20-21, Wamicon - IEEE Wireless and Microwave Conference, Clearwater, Fla.
Contact www.wamicon.org

22-23, 2009 Industrial Automation Safety and Security Symposium, Houston, Texas
Contact www.isa.org/safetysymposium

27-29, 7th Latin American Leadership Forum, Houston, Texas. Contact www.cg-la.com/lalf7

27-29, Onsite Energy Solutions 2009, Washignton DC Contact www.infocastinc.com

27-30, Field Service 2009, Desert Springs, Calif. Contact www.wbresearch.com

29 - May 1, ENTELEC, Houston, Tx, Contact www.entelec.org

Offshore Technology Conference
May 4-7
Houston, Texas.

The Offshore Technology Conference is the world’s foremost event for the development of offshore resources in the fields of drilling, exploration, production, and environmental protection.

www.otcnet.org/2009

BICSI Spring Conference & Exhibition
May 10-13
Baltimore, MD

Register Now for the 2009 BICSI Spring Conference & Exhibition, May 10-13 in Baltimore!
Why should you attend the Spring Conference?

• Choose from over 25 educational seminars.
• Attend BICSI Training and Exams scheduled in Baltimore before and after the conference.
• Earn CECs and continue to expand your ITS knowledge.
• Visit the Exhibit Hall and browse the latest products and solutions of the industry.
• Stop by the Cabling Skills Challenge to see the action!

Money-saving Offer!
Buy two BICSI Spring Conference registrations and receive a third complimentary registration. This is ideal for companies or groups registering multiple attendees. Additionally, you could win $1,000! Click here for details.

ELECTRIC POWER Conference & Exhibition
May 12-14, 2009
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
Rosemont, IL.

Connect with the power industry like you never have before at the 11th Annual ELECTRIC POWER Conference & Exhibition! More than 500 leading power industry suppliers. Over 400 speakers. 100+ sessions.  Whatever segment of the industry you work in, ELECTRIC POWER provides unmatched coverage of the strategic and tactical issues that affect your profession.  Register today at www.electricpowerexpo.com

Connectivity Week
June 8-11, 2009
Santa Clara, Ca.

As we enter a new era in the 21st century,  an era of change and action upon a background of challenging economic times around the world,  the need for efficiency has never been so critical. As the challenges of energy supply are now realized as a major factor in world economics,  politics and security,  the control and managewment of energy sourcing,  transmission and consumption become the subjects that are prime for Information Technology.

Please link to www.ConnectivityWeek.com

West Coast Energy Management Congress – EMC
June 10-11, 2009
Long Beach, Ca.

The Association of Energy Engineers is proud to present the largest energy conference and technology expo held in the west coast specifically for business, industrial, governmental, and institutional energy users. The West Coast Energy Management Congress 2009 is designed to help end users, business leaders, and energy managers find solutions to control their energy costs, improve power reliability, upgrade existing systems and equipment, explore renewable energy options, and leverage financing and performance contracting options to implement new and retrofit projects. At the West Coast EMC 2009 you can explore an array of technologies showcased in the expo hall by leading companies and talk with experts face to face to discuss your unique application needs. The concurrent multi-track conference and lineup of seminars offer you an unparalleled training opportunity to stay current on industry trends and to enhance your skill knowledge base.

Featured topics this year include:• Strategic Energy Planning • Landfill • Cogeneration • Profiting from Energy Management • Geothermal •Energy Efficient Buildings • Solar • Absorption Chillers. This year, we have added a lineup of complimentary workshops held on the expo floor to help attendees further explore real-world case studies, success stories, energy and facilities management strategies, and more.

View complete details at www.energyevent.com

American Water Works Association’s Annual Conference & Exposition
June 14-18
San Diego, Calif.

Register now for the American Water Works Association’s Annual Conference & Exposition (ACE09) in San Diego, CA – June 14-18 at the San Diego Convention Center. ACE09 will feature 17 interactive workshops and more than 100 technical sessions, most offering CEUs. Tuesday, June 16 is Operators’ Day at ACE09 and includes full access to technical sessions and the exhibit hall for a special discounted rate for water or wastewater operators. AWWA will also be offering two of its certificate programs at ACE09—Public Officials and High-Tech Operator. Get a hands-on understanding of new products and solutions offered by more than 500 exhibiting companies.

Visit www.awwa.org/ace09 for more information and to register for the conference.

6th Annual Remote Device Monitoring & Management Summit
June 22-24, 2009
Boston, MA

The 6th Annual Remote Device Monitoring & Management Summit is taking place June 22-24, 2009 in Boston, MA. With the status of the current economy, we know that you are facing even greater demands to increase customer satisfaction, service delivery and increased sales performance. The good news however, is that Remote Device Monitoring is continuing to bring about increased opportunity despite a very difficult economic environment. To capitalize on the many benefits including: a strong ROI, enhanced product offerings, greater customer satisfaction and loyalty, and environmentally sound opportunities, you need to know how to optimize processes in order to extract the largest value that will deliver the greatest benefit to your overall organization.

Let the 6th Annual Remote Device Monitoring & Management Summit help you reach your key performance indicators for success.

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