Enhancing small hydro automation using distributed micro-controllers and simulation

The past ten years has seen significant advances in low-cost micro-controllers, data communications and personal computing. Applying these technologies to small hydro automation, affordable multifunctional distributed processing solutions is now a commercial reality. The ability to reduce costs is facilitated by innovative low-cost simulation tools. The successful application of these technologies to the control and protection of a 2MVA hydro generating unit is described.

Keywords: small hydro, automation, simulation, microcontrollers, distributed processing, governing, SCADA, data buses, personal computing tools, control, multifunctional protection, Francis turbine