Mixed Signal/Analog
ADCs Simplify Power-Line-Monitoring System Design for Substation Control
Analog Devices has introduced simultaneous-sampling ADCs that simplify the design of next-generation power-line-monitoring systems. The need for more efficient utility substations and “smart grid” management is growing as worldwide electricity demand increases. Electric utility companies need power-line-monitoring systems to monitor and control energy consumption, cost, and quality, as well as to protect expensive equipment from power surges and severe storms.
“AAlso available in six- or four-channel options, ADI’s 16-bit, eight-channel AD7606 and 14-bit, eight-channel AD7607 simultaneous-sampling ADCs achieve SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) performance of 90 dB. The optional oversampling mode further improves SNR performance, reduces code spread, and enhances anti-alias rejection. Multi-channel integration facilitates three-phase I&V (current and voltage) measurement and neutral monitoring in substation equipment. This enables power-line monitoring systems to observe and manage abnormal events occurring on a power grid, such as electrical faults or short circuits. The AD7606 and AD7607 simultaneous-sampling ADCs operate on a 5-V analogue supply, 1.8-V to 5-V logic supply, and feature a front-end, anti-alias filter with high input impedance and input clamp to ±16.5-V. In addition, an internal reference and a reduced decoupling capacitor requirement provide a higher level of integration compared to alternative solutions. The new devices offer true bipolar analogue input ranges of ±5 V and ±10 V that allow for the preservation of phase information while sampling bipolar voltages and currents over a wide dynamic range.