Frontline has updated its NetDecoder™ protocol analyzer tool to support a wide array of Smart Grid communication technologies. Diagnosis and troubleshooting support for Saia-Burgess S-Bus, BACnet and IEC-60870-5-102 communication technologies are now included. The analyzer also supports other Smart Grid related communication technologies such as:
- DNP3 (both Serial and Ethernet).
- IEC-60870 protocol suite.
The IEC-60870-5-102 is used along with the 101, 103 & 104 protocols mainly in the electric distribution and transmission SCADA networks. DNP3 and the IEC protocol suite form the backbone of most Smart Grid SCADA communications.
On the consumer end of the Smart Grid, communication technologies such as BACnet and S-Bus provide connectivity to design smart, sustainable and energy-efficient homes and buildings. The NetDecoder analyzer had previously supported the BACnet (PTP, MSTP and Ethernet variants) protocols as a separate add-on.
The Smart Grid will consist of multiple interconnected networks, each utilizing its own communication technology. The NetDecoder can capture, analyze and diagnose serial, ethernet and other industrial bus technologies covering the entire range of wired communication networks.