Power systems monitored over the web

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Feb 14, 2002

PowerLogic Power Server is a web server, data concentrator and communications gateway that enables PowerLogic electrical network management systems to be monitored via standard browser software.

PowerLogic Power Server, launched by Merlin Gerin, is a web server, data concentrator and communications gateway that enables PowerLogic electrical network management systems to be monitored via standard browser software such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.

The main benefits are lower capital and implementation costs, increased reliability and the ability to monitor an electrical supply system via the Internet from almost anywhere in the world.

By eliminating the need for bespoke software, PowerLogic web-based monitoring typically halves the cost of implementing software and PCs.

Until now, PCs had to be configured with client software but, with PowerLogic web-based monitoring, users no longer need to pay for software licences.

With the launch of Power Server, PowerLogic is the first totally web-based electrical network management system.

Power Server is fully plug-and-play, enabling faster implementation, which saves engineering costs.

Furthermore, any PC can be used for monitoring, eliminating the need for dedicated PCs, which also cuts costs.

Standard browser technology allows an electrical network to be monitored from almost anywhere.

Using a laptop PC, an engineer can easily access all data by viewing the relevant web page via an Internet connection.

In addition, PowerLogic Power Server is able to send SMS text messages to mobile phones to provide instant alarm information.

Once alerted, an engineer can use any available PC to check the network's status via the Internet.

PowerLogic Power Server also brings increased reliability to the electrical network and its monitoring system.

By continuously monitoring up to 64 devices including circuit monitors, power meters, circuit breakers, relays and virtually any Modbus device, Power Server provides comprehensive historical data to enable condition-based maintenance programmes to be implemented to minimise downtime.

Also, Power Server is based on an industrial grade server that is protected against the harsh electrical environment found in many switchrooms in which, for example, tripping circuit breakers can cause electrical spikes that would damage a conventional PC.

Merlin Gerin reckons PowerLogic is the industry's most comprehensive and sophisticated power management system able to cater for almost any monitoring or metering requirement.

PowerLogic integrates all the intelligent components of an electrical distribution system to enable users to reduce downtime, cut energy costs and help maintain power quality.

PowerLogic provides monitoring of power meters and analysers; real time monitoring and control of LV and MV circuit breakers and relays; and monitoring of PLCs and other devices.

Devices such as power meters and circuit breakers can be connected directly to a PowerLogic system via Modbus over RS485 or LAN/WAN.

Scaleable system architecture allows a system to be built up with devices being added to match needs or when budgets allow.