Digital Substation Design and Automation with IEC 61850

A Coordinated Electric System Interconnection Review—the utility’s deep-dive on technical and cost impacts of your project.

1. What is IEC 61850?
It is an international standard for substation automation that enables communication and integration of IEDs using standardized models and protocols.
2. How does GOOSE messaging work?
GOOSE (Generic Object-Oriented Substation Events) enables high-speed multicast communication between IEDs, replacing traditional copper-based signaling.
3. What is an SCL file?
System Configuration Language (SCL) is an XML schema used to define and exchange system topologies, configurations, and device capabilities.
4. How do you test IEC 61850 systems safely?
By using Mode/Behavior settings such as Test/Blocked, and the Simulation bit, engineers can test without affecting live grid operations.
5. What are Logical Nodes?
LNs are standardized functional blocks (e.g., PTOC for overcurrent, CSWI for switch control) representing automation functions within IEDs.
6. Why is redundancy important in IEC 61850?
Redundancy protocols like PRP and HSR ensure zero-failover recovery and communication reliability in substation networks.
7. Can IEC 61850 integrate with legacy protocols?
Yes, it supports gateways and mapping to protocols like DNP3 and Modbus for backward compatibility.
8. What tools support SCL file generation?
Tools like IET600, DIGSI, and PCM600 help create and manage SCD/ICD/IID files.
9. What are Sampled Values (SV)?
SV are time-synchronized analog measurements (like current and voltage) digitized and sent via Ethernet in real-time for precise protection.
10. What is the difference between Edition 1 and 2?
Edition 2 provides clearer definitions, enhanced testing mechanisms, and better interoperability than Edition 1.
11. What is a Merging Unit?
It digitizes analog signals from instrument transformers and sends SVs over Ethernet to IEDs, enabling full digital protection.
12. How is cybersecurity addressed in IEC 61850?
Recent updates introduce authentication, encryption, and secure engineering access aligned with IEC 62351.
13. What is the role of a process bus?
It replaces hardwired signals with Ethernet-based SV and GOOSE communication between primary equipment and control IEDs.
14. How can Keentel Engineering assist in IEC 61850 projects?
By offering turnkey solutions including design, SCL file preparation, IED configuration, testing, and training.
15. Is IEC 61850 limited to substations?
No, it’s being extended to DERs, wind farms, battery storage, wide-area control, and more.

In 1995, Sandip (Sonny) R. Patel earned his Electrical Engineering degree from the University of Illinois, specializing in Electrical Engineering . But degrees don’t build legacies—action does. For three decades, he’s been shaping the future of engineering, not just as a licensed Professional Engineer across multiple states (Florida, California, New York, West Virginia, and Minnesota), but as a doer. A builder. A leader. Not just an engineer. A Licensed Electrical Contractor in Florida with an Unlimited EC license. Not just an executive. The founder and CEO of KEENTEL LLC—where expertise meets execution. Three decades. Multiple states. Endless impact.