Microprocessor Applications in RTU Comunications And in Master Station Control

A description is given for recent microprocessor applications in Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) comunications and in master station equipment configuration control. The Communication Input Output Controller (CIOC) is used for RTU data acquisition and subsequent front end processing. With modular firmware, it can be programmed to handle arbitrary communication protocols and message structures. In communication with the CIOC is a Configuration Manager(CM). It monitors and controls the switching of major control equipment including the CIOC´s. This enables either automatic or manually instructed substitution of spare items for failed items. Both the CIOC and the CM are microprocessor based. Integration testing of the applications has been conducted and satisfactory results have been obtained. Discussions are also given to indicate related future applications.