Echelon accelerates smart grid modernization efforts with new DCN 3000 platform

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Echelon Corporation, a provider of control networking platform, has announced new DCN 3000 distributed control node, a multi-protocol, IPv6-compatible multi-application platform designed to help electric utilities around the world accelerate and simplify their grid modernization and optimization programs.

The DCN 3000 combines Echelon’s reliable grid technology with increased computing power and flexibility, establishing a more intelligent communication infrastructure between grid devices and the utility head-end through a variety of wireless and fixed connectivity options, the company said.

Echelon DCN 3000 manages smart meters, sensors and other grid devices on the low-voltage grid. The ARM processor and Linux-based platform support the latest security and networking features, as well as drivers and distributed applications that allow utilities to quickly and reliably adapt to changing requirements, integrate new technologies and progress toward their grid modernization goals.

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“The DCN 3000 combines the performance of very high-cost proprietary data concentrators with an extensible, open-system approach that delivers unprecedented value and flexibility to utilities focused on improving customer satisfaction and managing an increasingly fluid environment,” said Michael Anderson, Echelon’s senior vice president and general manager, Grid Modernization.

“This next-generation distributed control node enables utilities to map the low-voltage grid, while monitoring grid health and preventing problems more effectively than previously possible,” Anderson added.

The DCN 3000 is a backward-compatible replacement for the Echelon DC-1000 line of data concentrator products, which are installed throughout Echelon’s worldwide customer base and which power more smart meters than any other data concentrator in the world.

Echelon DCN 3000 is powered by new Linux OS supporting an app/driver platform and USB expansion for adding focused functionality after installation of the DCN 3000. It also includes backup power for Last Gasp, providing 30 seconds of uptime in case of power failure, with notification to system software in a single burst.

Another feature, Low-Voltage Grid Mapping (LVGM), is in built for determining grid topology; identifying connections and associations of meters, segments and feeders; and providing data for use in GIS integrations, detailed load analysis, phase balancing and other grid modernization applications.

The solution ensures the availability of power consumption and power quality data needed to gain visibility at the edge of the grid. Other features include fast, single-message commissioning; and Multi-client Local Data Access (MLDA), with support for up to 16 external clients with secured read/write features.

DCN 3000 will be generally available in March 2014, the company said.

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