Balance between innovation, security key in the smart grid

Security standards
The important of security standards in the smart grid market is balanced by the challenge of developing them. While it is important for utilities to deploy the right solutions to protect their systems, the constant evolution of smart grid technologies makes it difficult for standards boards to keep up. Furthermore, obstacles, such as the disconnect between providers and customers, complicate the implementation of smart grid security standards.

Communicate for growth
The key to optimizing smart grids, both for demand response and delivery as well as security, is to boost the communication of data across the network. Advanced serial to Ethernet converter solutions and terminal servers can optimize data transmission, ensuring that providers are getting access to all the relevant data coming from the consumer end of the grid, and able to put it too good use.

Of course, financial considerations are also important here. Continued evolution of smart grid technologies can weight heavily on a utility's pockets, but adopting the right supporting hardware will help ease improvements over time. By deploying the right solutions now, energy providers will be able to ease the integration of advanced hardware and strategies later on.

Perle offers a range of cost effective serial-to-Ethernet converters to help meet NERC-CIP compliance for the protection of critical cyberassets in substations. The IOLAN SDS HV/LDC Terminal Server is designed to meet harsh environments associated with Power Substations with attributes such as support for substation AC and DC voltage ranges, extended operating temperatures and meeting emission, immunity and safety approvals associated with substation IT equipment.