Zigbee performance during severe interruptions in electric power systems

Abstract

The goal of this paper is to investigate the reliability of ZigBee based wireless sensor networks in transforming existing power systems into future smart grids. The performance of the communication network for specific propagation environment and frequency band is investigated. The interrupting RF signals generated from harsh normal and abnormal operating conditions in power system environment are investigated. High noise level in 13 to 16kV HV systems, impulsive transients of 10 to 34kV according to IEEE Std. 792 turn-to-turn tests as well as partial discharge activities in 4 to 24kV free space are tested using real laboratory data. The interruption limits of ZigBee coordinator and device units during these conditions are defined.