A reliable architecture based on Precision Time Protocol for WAMPAC synchronization

Abstract

Wide Area Monitoring Protection and Control (WAMPAC) systems play an increasingly important role in electric power system. They allow the measurement and the analysis of real time data to improve power system‘s reliability and efficiency. To work properly, every element of a WAMPAC system must be synchronized to a common reference time. Currently, the most common synchronization source is GPS, a system greatly vulnerable to cyber-attacks. To fully exploit WAMPAC systems‘ potential, cyber security issues must be taken into account. One possible solution could be the utilization of Precision Time Protocol (PTP) over Ethernet, as an alternative synchronization source.