Network-Distributed Time Synchronization With SEL ICON

The SEL ICON time synchronization solution delivers a robust, reliable foundation for a utility’s critical applications through network-distributed time synchronization and real-time, system-wide status monitoring. ICON uses multiple time sources with wide network communications to build a timing system that can distinguish suspect timing signals to maintain secure and dependable time—reducing the impact of localized GPS outages and providing greater network visibility and awareness to system operators.

Join presenter Paul Robertson in our webinar to learn more about this solution’s applications, capabilities, and benefits.

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Uninterrupted Time Synchronization

Rather than relying solely on individual time references from dozens or hundreds of GPS clocks, the ICON distributes a single, primary time source to substation IEDs over the existing WAN. Our proprietary time comparison algorithm constantly checks all available time inputs against a weighted average, then automatically rejects degraded or compromised time inputs to guarantee that substation devices receive only the highest quality time reference. Even during a localized GPS outage due to spoofing attacks, antenna failures, or jamming, substation devices remain synchronized.

System-Wide Visibility and Awareness

System operators have access to a constant stream of information about their network’s overall health and hygiene with the ICON’s associated SEL-5051/5052 Client/Server Network Management System (NMS) Software. In the event of a degraded or compromised time input, the SEL-5051/5052 software immediately sends an alert to operators with information about where the timing mismatch occurred and which source is incorrect—which means less time troubleshooting, reduced crew work hours, and a quicker resolution of the issue. All the while, substation IEDs remain unaffected and continue operating normally.

Support for Multiple Time Sources and Transports

To address current and future time synchronization requirements for substation devices, the ICON solution supports Precision Time Protocol (PTP) Telecom input, IRIG-B and IEEE 1588 PTP Power Profile outputs, and both SONET and Ethernet transport.