Data Acquisition System Planning

Listening

The first step in planning a successful project is to gain a thorough understanding of the client’s need.  California RealTime Engineering makes it a high priority to listen to the client.

Data Gathering

Another important step is acquiring a solid set of data of existing conditions. This would typically include drawings, spreadsheets of existing data taken by operators, operator logs and charts. A site visit with a walk-down of the complete mechanical system is essential.

Conceptual Plan

This is the first presentation to the client. The amount of material and the format presented will depend on the client. It may be as simple as a 3 page narrative with proposed system block diagrams for alternatives. It could be a 20 page formal report with Appendices. Cost estimates for alternative solutions would be included. A submittal to the client followed by a review meeting would complete this step. A decision by the client would enable the start of the Final Plan.

Final Plan

Acceptance of the Conceptual Plan would enable the development of a detailed “Final” plan. This plan would include a more detailed System Block Diagram. It would also include equipment elevations (e.g. server racks), selected communications media (e.g. spread spectrum radio, telecom circuit interconnections, routers). Final cost estimates would be included.

Data Acquisition System Design and Material Specification

Once a Final Plan has been agreed upon, design details can be developed.  At this stage, procurement of materials and system configuration can begin. Bench testing of the configured system with client review and acceptance are essential pre-installation elements. Field installation at the client’s facilities follows. Final testing of the installed  system requires interfacing with communication media (telecom, radio, fiber optic cable, etc.) and may involve coordination with different entities (client’s dispatcher, CAISO engineering, etc.  After all entities have accepted the field tests, the system is ready for production status.

Realtime Telemetry Requirements Consultation
California Independent System Operator (CAISO)

The processes that CAISO requires generator owners to complete in order to deliver power to the grid are somewhat rigorous, especially in the area of documentation.  Allowing time in the schedule for all of the requirements must not be minimized.  We can assist the client with certain documents and telemetry specific requirements. We can recommend other resources for assistance in meeting other requirements.

Remote Intelligent Gateway (RIG) Engineering
California Independent System Operator (CAISO)

The CAISO requirements for realtime telemetry have changed since the inception of de-regulation in California wholesale electricity market in 1998. The Remote Intelligent Gateway or RIG was specified by CAISO as the realtime data interface required for each generator with a gross output greater than 10 megawatts. This provided the means for CAISO to input live data to its’ energy management system (EMS). Each generator owner is responsible for implementing their own RIG in accordance with CAISO’s requirements. We can assist the generator owner in meeting the requirements for implementing the RIG from project planning to final testing.

Industrial Control System Engineering

Data acquisition in industry has increased exponentially over the decades since the computer became available to the industrial world. We can provide expertise in recommending and implementing realtime data acquisition and control solutions to meet the client’s needs.