Distribution System Training

The objective of this module is to draw attention to the need for communication links throughout the distribution system, and to look at the characteristics of the different type communication systems installed. A review is also included of the different types of communication signals which must be processed within the communications network, including analog signals, digital signals, carrier signals, and so on.

On completion of this module, the participant will be able to understand and apply in day-to-day practice, the following concepts:

• The different applications of communication links across the distribution system, including:

1. Voice communication
2. Transfer of data signals
3. Transfers of control signals
4. Distribution automation

• Characteristics of analog signals
• The use of carrier signals for transmission of analog signals
• Examples of amplitude modulation (A.M.) and frequency modulation (F.M.)
• The significance of the term “bandwidth”
• The characteristics of digital signals
• The transfer of digital signals by frequency shift keying (F.S.K.)
• The function and application of multiplexing on communication links
• Characteristics of the hard-wired communication system
• Characteristic of radio communication
• Assignment of certain frequencies to the many users of the frequency
  spectrum

• Microwave communication
• The need for repeater stations with microwave transmission
• The application and limitations of communication by power line carrier
• The characteristics and advantage of communication by fibre-optic cables
• Characteristics and limitations of satellite communication