System Architecture - GE D20 Technical Overview

GE Grid Solutions

1.1 System Architecture

The D20/D200 is based on a distributed processing architecture that consists of one or more
main processors, peripheral I/O modules, termination panels, power supplies and
communications equipment.
The main components of a D20/D200 system are:
• D20/D200 main chassis, equipped with processor(s), power supply, RS-232/485 ports
• Input/output peripheral modules
• Auxiliary equipment
• Communications interfaces
• Application firmware
• Configuration and maintenance software
• User manuals
The main processor communicates with I/O peripherals over proprietary high-speed D.20
communications links. General-purpose RS-232 and RS-485 serial ports provide
communications with a variety of external devices, including substation equipment (IEDs, for
example), local printers, operator terminals, and SCADA computers.
Field data acquired by the D20/D200 is maintained in the system database, where it can be
accessed and processed by different application programs.
1.2 Hardware Design
The D20 and D200 hardware designs are based on:
• Distributed processing architecture which permits the sharing of I/O data processing between
the main processor and I/O peripheral processors
• CMOS logic devices for low power consumption, noise immunity and high reliability
• Advanced 32-bit Freescale™ 68030 (D20ME and ME II) and 68HC11 (D20 I/O peripherals)
single-chip microcontrollers
• Programmable logic devices (PLD) to provide flexibility and reliability, and to reduce the
physical space taken up by logic circuits
• 9600-baud maintenance port
• D.20 HDLC link over a shielded cable or a glass/plastic fiber optic cable
The modular design of the D20/D200 allows for easy expansion when you need additional
processing power or communication ports.
GE Information
D20/D200 Technical Overview
PRPI-019-3.00-10
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