Life Cycle Management Tools for Synchrophasor Systems: Why We Need Them and What They Should Entail

A synchrophasor system solution generally incorporates precise timing sources, Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs), Phasor Data Concentrators (PDCs), communication network and phasor based applications. Even though all components may pass the laboratory tests, there is no guaranty that everything will work properly together after installation and deployment in the field. To preserve an acceptable level of service quality, the system components need to be tested keeping in mind different stages of the deployment. This paper discusses various aspects of a comprehensive life-cycle management model for Synchrophasor technology, ranging from the component to the overall end-to-end system level, and rigorous procedures for testing and evaluating such mission critical systems. In this effort, a unique PMU calibration lab is constructed to execute standardized PMU acceptance tests according to IEEE and IEC standards, such as the IEEE C37.118.1a among others. Field end-to-end calibrator is introduced using an accurate reference PMU called “Gold PMU” to perform field acceptance and periodic maintenance tests utilizing the nested testing concept. To illustrate the value of synchrophasor life-cycle management tools, use cases for state estimation and fault location application end-to-end tests are implemented to evaluate impact of accuracy deterioration and component failure on the performance of the synchrophasor system.