Smart Sensors

The primary function of the GridAdvisor family of Smart Sensors is to provide utilities a method to remotely monitor the status of their distribution system and respond quickly and efficiently to faults and blown capacitor bank fuses.

The OutageAdvisor Trip Current Reset faulted current indicator is a cable mounted sensor that indicates the passage of fault current by sending a message via an existing communications network as well as tripping a visual indicator.  The OutageAdvisor is based on the Cooper Power Systems’ S.T.A.R. faulted circuit indicators that have been actively used for more than 10 years in systems throughout the United States.

The VARAdvisor sensor is a current transformer sensor mounted on the combined neutral of a capacitor bank.  The VARAdvisor measures combined neutral for blown capacitor fuses.  When a blown capacitor fuse is detected, the VARAdvisor sends a message via an existing communications network to inform the utility the capacitor bank needs service.

All Cooper Power System Smart Sensors feature:

• Single Hotstick Installation: Allows for quick and simple installation
• Environmental Standards: Assures accurate and reliable performance over the entire specified temperature range, -35°C to +85°C, per IEEE Standard 495-1986™
• Remote System Monitoring: Allows for data to be collected remotely about distribution system status
• Overhead and Underground: GridAdvisor sensors can be use for both overhead and underground applications

These sensors are specifically designed to provide multiple communications options including, cellular (GSM, CDMA) and Cellnet UtiliNet®.

Depending on the sensor and application that it facilitates a utility may choose to view the data on an existing enterprise software platform such as SCADA/DMS/OMS or on vendor software platforms that are hosted and accessible via the Internet.