Challenge
With the advent of high-bandwidth packet-based technologies, such as Carrier Ethernet, there is a clear trend within many utilities to move away from segregated information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT) networks towards an integrated or converged network model. A common network supporting both IT and OT services increases the efficiency of assets and resources but can compromise the performance required by protection applications.
Solution
SEL and Ciena have partnered to offer an end-to-end utility network solution that combines hardened SEL substation devices with a Ciena Carrier Ethernet core network. This approach delivers mission-critical traffic with ultra-low and deterministic latency, provides the environmental immunity required for harsh environments, and integrates network management capabilities.
Solution Components
The joint SEL–Ciena solution combines components from each company’s respective areas of expertise. The substation-hardened and reliable SEL ICON Integrated Communications Optical Network (which operates as an edge multiplexer), SEL-2740S Software-Defined Network Switch, and SEL-5056 Software-Defined Network Flow Controller integrate with Ciena’s highly scalable Carrier Ethernet routers and Blue Planet Analytics software, including the Network Health Predictor.
Benefits
Thanks to the efforts of SEL and Ciena, utilities no longer have to compromise on the performance of protection applications. Working together, SEL and Ciena have developed a true end-to-end unified platform that enables safe and reliable IT/OT convergence for even the toughest applications, like current differential protection and direct transfer trip schemes. This combined solution is also ideal for leased analog services that must migrate to Ethernet leased circuits.
Burns & McDonnell Report
SEL ICON VSN Interoperability Test Report