Application Note on IEEE 1613-2009 and IEEE 1613.1-2013

Electromagnetic compatibility standards for smart grid devices

The interoperability, reliability, and survivability of smart grid devices are enhanced when utility communications devices meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements. Requiring devices to pass EMC tests at levels replicating the electromagnetic environments where they will be installed should be an integral element of smart grid development.

This Application Note introduces the EMC test requirements in IEEE Std. 1613.1-2013 and IEEE Std. 1613-2009 (together with its amendment IEEE Std. 1613a-2011). These IEEE standards set environmental and testing requirements for communications networking devices used in electric power transmission and distribution facilities, including substations. The IEEE standards are now more closely aligned with International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) test methods required in the European Union and most other parts of the global economy.

What’s in the report

• Descriptions of the EMC test requirements in the IEEE standards
• Possible benefits for utilities and manufacturers who adopt the IEEE pair
• Benefits that test laboratories could realize from creating a suitable test bed for the IEEE pair
• Benefits stemming from the alignment of the IEEE and IEC standards
• Guidelines to help manufacturers test their products using an accredited testing laboratory, including descriptions of the usual steps in planning, setting up, performing, witnessing, and documenting the tests