Integration of GIS data into a PSS Sincal electrical model

Planning of Distribution Systems is a complex task and may be optimised by the use of software tools such as GIS (Graphical Information Systems) and an electrical model of the system. Simultaneous use of these two packages is not ideal and can be problematic, especially if both are not updated with exactly the same information. PSS Sincal is a distribution and planning software package developed and maintained by Siemens. This paper details an algorithm developed by ESBI to integrate GIS data into a working PSS Sincal electrical model. PSS Sincal has an open database structure which provides the ability to integrate the software with other programs, such as GIS. However, the software does not have ready built modules to carry out this task. In order to enable this integration between PSS Sincal and GIS, all functionality must be derived by the user.