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The need for an effective communications architecture is critical to Smart Grid.  Without a strong communications architecture many of the Smart Grid initiatives would be impossible.  A communications architecture that provides proper coverage and reliability assures that SCADA, DLA, Mobile Workforce and interfaces with the consumer meter and appliances will provide a return on investment.  In short the communications network optimizes all other features of Smart Grid.

Security
Security is a key consideration that any utility must consider when choosing a communications scheme. Data integrity violations or data interceptions could compromise the automation of the system cause severe damage.

Communication Technologies
There are many different communication technologies to consider when implementing a network. The choices range from licensed radio to unlicensed radio frequencies, microwave, and broadband and power line carrier schemes. A utilities network can incorporate any combination of these schemes.

Communication Protocol
The communications protocol must be considered by the utility when implementing a network with down line automation. The common SCADA protocol is DNP3 while TCP/IP is favored for other data transfer applications.

Data Management
Any down line automation plan with mobile computing will need to have a data management process in the communication scheme. This can be a combination of integrated applications to handle all of the data such as OMS, SCADA, CIS or MDM.


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