SEL-3031 Radio Transceiver Now Offers Optimal Point-to-Multipoint and Collocated Radio Operation

March 7, 2011 - PRLog -- PULLMAN, WA — Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc. (SEL) today announced that the SEL-3031 Serial Radio Transceiver is now equipped with point-to-multipoint operation and SEL proprietary Hop-Sync™ technology for optimal operation of collocated radio antennas. Encrypted SEL radios provide economical communications links for secure data acquisition, control, and electrical teleprotection.

Point-to-multipoint operating mode is generally the most economical method to collect data from multiple remote sites. In this mode, one SEL-3031 is the “master” and additional radios are the “remotes.” In point-to-multipoint mode, one full-duplex data channel is provided. Typical applications include low-to-medium speed SCADA and remote telemetry.

Low-latency radio links are required for effective teleprotection, to accelerate clearing times for electrical faults, prevent instability that can cause a blackout, and minimize equipment damage. In point-to-point mode, one pair of radios provides three serial data links for simultaneous operation of up to three different connections and protocols. The standard SEL-3031 introduces only 5 milliseconds of latency to an SEL MIRRORED BITS® communications link. With an optional high-security encryption card, the SEL-3031 still adds only 7.4 milliseconds of latency.

Two radios are collocated and operated as an active repeater for longer distances and to provide line-of-sight radio paths. Collocated SEL-3031 radios also provide high-speed point-to-point links for substation distribution automation controllers to communicate with recloser controls for fast electrical system restoration.

The SEL-3031 is available now with a base price of $1,155. For more information on features, benefits, and applications, visit www.selinc.com/p126.

SEL serves electrical power and automation industries worldwide through the design, manufacture, supply, and support of products and services for power system protection, monitoring, control, automation, communications, and metering. SEL offers unmatched local technical support, a worldwide, ten-year product warranty, and a commitment to making electric power safer, more reliable, and more economical.

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SEL serves power utilities and industrial sites worldwide through the design, manufacture, and support of digital protective relays, automation products, services for power system protection, control, monitoring, integration, and automation.