Evaluation of steady-state and dynamic performance of a synchronized phasor measurement unit

It is critically important to understand steady-state and dynamic performance of phasor measurement units (PMUs) to ensure reliable and secure operation of the synchrophasor based wide area monitoring, control, and protection systems. The recently published IEEE Standard C37.118.1 provides necessary guidelines to characterize both steady-state and dynamic performance of a PMU. This paper presents a performance evaluation methodology according to the IEEE Standard C37.118.1 and discusses the practical issues in the test environment. Results of the steady-state and dynamic responses tests on an actual PMU are also presented. The PMU performance evaluation approach of this paper is simple, repeatable, and can be performed at any facility with commonly available standard signal playback equipment. The method is based upon using test signals that are mathematically generated from a signal model and play backed into the PMU with precise global position system (GPS) synchronization.