Abstract
M.Tech. (Electrical Engineering)
In this research we determine ways to improve the reliability of smart grids through the use of fiber optical communication. We first explore the network requirements of smart grids in South Africa through qualitative interviews. The calculations and simulations were based on the following: how the signal level drops, the losses into the fiber optic systems connector and the splice losses while using fiber optical communication. The distance measured in kilometers was used to determine the fiber’s quality, loss per unit. The lower the loss per unit length, the stronger the signals at the receiving end. Fiber has proved its abilities of being the best communication network tool as it can transmit signal over long distances without being boosted or disturbed, its capacity is far greater and lighter and smaller than copper. The focus was on the reliability of smart grids through the use of Fiber optical communication. Qualitative interviews were conducted with experts from power companies also regarding wired and wireless networks used. The interviews also revealed that Fiber optical communication can give accurate real time data when connected to smart grids. Some interviewees, who were in power companies, were not familiar with fiber optical communication and ZigBee wireless communication network. Comprehensive calculations were performed to confirm the effectiveness of fiber optical communication. ZigBee like any other wireless proved that it has its own weakness by not being reliable as it can be easily tampered or easily disturbed by natural circumstances, natural forces and natural structures. We determine fiber optical communication’s reliability in terms of their rates distances, coverages and data. The tests and simulations that were conducted using fiber optical communication Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) showed that the reliability of the fiber that can be used for smart grid.