Data in the RCU database includes information about the switchgear and the RCU itself. Usually a
subset of this data is mapped into the protocol used by the SCADA system.
The functional block diagram shown in figure 12 identifies the main elements of the RCU.
A short range radio with built-in antenna that is used by the microprocessor to communicate to a
PC to enable configuration of the RCU. The short range radio is inside the electronics
compartment.
A short range radio with built-in antenna that is used by the microprocessor to communicate to
the switchgear mounted on the line above the RCU. The short range radio is inside the
electronics compartment.
The microprocessor retrieves data from the switchgear for sending to the SCADA system. The
microprocessor is inside the electronics compartment.
The data interface between the microprocessor and the long range radio (or modem). This has
a variety of possible interfaces. The data interface is inside the electronics compartment.
The long range radio which connects to an external antenna to communicate with the SCADA
system. The long range radio is outside of the electronics compartment and is mounted on a
removable radio tray.
A power supply system which can take power from either a solar panel or from a 115 V or 230 V
AC source and uses it to charge a standby battery. The power supply system provides power to
all the parts of the RCU including the long range radio or modem. The power supply is inside the
electronics compartment. The standby battery is in a separate compartment.
An Operator Control Panel (optional) which connects to the microprocessor to provide additional
status displays and controls for an operator.
3.5 RCU Internal Database and Controls
The RCU maintains an internal database which can be accessed by a SCADA protocol. The
database consists of three parts:
Points from the switchgear such as open/closed or line current.
Points from the RCU itself such as door open or remote control active.
Controls such as switchgear Trip/Close or change to switchgear protection mode/group.
Refer to the relevant protocol manual ([1] [8] [8] [9] [10] for more detail on the database and controls.
3.6 RCU Connect Utility
To interface to the switchgear and to the SCADA system, the RCU requires a configuration which is
set up using a utility running on a PC called RCU Connect. RCU Connect is used to specify the
information that the RCU needs to operate,
RCU Connect is also used to commission and test the RCU. Instructions on how to use RCU Connect
and the configuration parameters are in chapter 7.
RCU Connect cannot change switchgear policies or settings, nor can it operate the switchgear.
Switchgear can be operated from a PC using Siemens Connect (for Fusesaver) or CMRConnect (for
CMR). Refer to the Siemens Fusesaver Operating Instructions or the Siemens CMR Configuration
Instructions.
RCU Connect uses wireless communication from the PC for which a USB Antenna (the same one
that is used for communication between a PC and a switchgear) is required. To enable
communications either the RCU door must be opened or the SCADA master must send an
appropriate as this allows RCU Connect to start communications at any time over the next 10
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