scope:

Scope and object

This technical report is intended to provide basic guidance for the introduction of improvements in the IEC standards related to HV switchgear and controlgear. Such improvements are required to allow the users of switchgear to benefit from all the possibilities provided by electronic equipment.

A large number of so-called non-conventional devices are arising or are expected to be installed in the future. There is an urgent need to standardise interfaces and particularly communication protocols which may be used by these devices to avoid confusing situations and to improve the interoperability of such devices. Communication is being considered by different working groups within SC 17A and TC 57. This report should be taken into consideration by these working groups.

Today's technology allows the implementation of all, or part of, switchgear and controlgear associated auxiliary equipment by means of electronic devices. This report introduces new clauses in order to cover these technologies. It also defines the different classes of functions to be ensured, as well as the associated boundaries, which will:

 • provide the user with a guarantee of operating security, independently of the chosen technology. This will require, if the case of transducers is taken as an example, the presence of clauses concerning accuracy, response time, testability, etc.;

 • allow manufacturers to ensure the required functions by means of their own techniques, without being dependent upon widespread unofficial standards: free choice to use or not to use optical fibres, digital links or traditional links, communication networks, etc.