The importance of IEC 61850 interoperability testing

Abstract

This paper discusses the factors affecting interoperability between multi-vendor devices, the necessity for interoperability testing, and the types of interoperability should be conducted. It is recommended that proof-of-concept interoperability should be preformed before full scope integration, and it is crucial to adopt interoperability testing as part of site commissioning test. Interoperability testing is the next step forward after conformance test to ensure an IEC 61850 based substation automation system will interoperate as it is designed in the field. Conformance test can reduce the number of costly issues and problems during integration, site commissioning and operation. Devices passed conformance test may still subject to issues during integration, commissioning and operation. Conformance test does not mean interoperability test. Conformance testing cannot replace interoperability testing.