IEEE PES Technical Report
Authors: IEEE Task Force on Big Data Analytics for Synchro-Waveform Measurements.
Date published: December 2024
Abstract
The concept of synchro-waveforms has recently emerged as a promising frontier in power system monitoring and data-driven applications. By providing access to raw waveform samples, synchro-waveforms can capture not only the typical major disturbances but also the seemingly minor, yet sometimes highly informative, disturbances in voltage and current that are missed by other time-synchronised measurements, such as synchrophasors. As a result, synchro-waveforms can support a wide range of existing and new measurement based applications in power system monitoring, control, and protection.
However, several open issues remain in this field. The true value of synchro-waveforms has yet to be fully realised. At the same time, their much higher data volume and faster reporting rate compared to synchrophasors introduce new challenges in power system data analytics that must be addressed.
This technical report identifies and addresses some of these challenges through a collaborative effort. It explores currently available technologies and case studies in this rapidly evolving area, while also examining future needs in data handling, standardisation, and real-time processing capabilities.
Specifically, the chapters in this report cover the following core subjects: synchro waveform technology and infrastructure; data collection, storage, and communication; different forms of synchro-waveform data representation; basic methods for working with synchro-waveform data; case studies and future applications; and synchro-waveform standardization needs.
This report was prepared with contributions from a diverse group of individuals with varying expertise. While some sections reflect on well-understood concepts, many sections seek to explore preliminary ideas. Together, these contributions provide valuable insights and suggestions for future directions in this field.
This report serves as a resource for industry, academia, and all stakeholders interested in leveraging synchro-waveform data for enhanced situational awareness and other power system applications. Its ultimate goal is to raise awareness within the power systems community and related disciplines about the growing field of synchro-waveforms and the diverse range of emerging topics in this domain.