RTU/Gateway and HMI
RTU/Gateway
Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) and gateways are essential components in substation automation, enabling communication between field devices and control centres. They play a vital role in monitoring, control, and data exchange across electrical networks.Â
Types and Products:Â
-  RTUs – programmable devices used to collect data from sensors, meters, and protection relays. They process and transmit this data to SCADA systems for real-time monitoring and control.Â
- Data Concentrators – these units aggregate information from multiple field devices, normalize it, and forward it to higher-level systems. They are ideal from substations with numerous IEDs and sensors.Â
- Protocol Gateways – convert between different communication protocols, allowing legacy systems to interface with modern digital infrastructure. This ensures seamless integration across diverse equipment.Â
- Communication Servers – manage data flow between substations and control centres. They support remote configuration, redundancy, and secure communication.Â
Key Features:Â
- Support for IEC 61850, DNP3, Modbus, and moreÂ
- Cybersecure communicationÂ
- Data concentration and protocol conversionÂ
- Integration with SCADA, EMS, and cloud platformsÂ
HMIs
Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs) provide operators with graphical interface to monitor and control substation equipment. They are critical for real-time decision-making and situational awareness.Â
Functions:Â
- Visualize electrical parameters and alarmsÂ
- Control breakers, switches, and relaysÂ
- Display historical trends and event logsÂ
- Interface with SCADA and RTUsÂ
Types:Â
- Embedded HMIs – built into IEDs or RTUsÂ
- Standalone HMIs – industrial PCs or touch panelsÂ
- Web-based HMIs – accessible via browsers for remote monitoringÂ
Benefits:Â
- Enhanced operational efficiencyÂ
- Reduced response time to faultsÂ
- Improved safety and situational awarenessÂ
