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Distribution Network Automation Terminal Information Point Table

A Distribution Network Automation Terminal Information Point Table organizes all I/O points, communication interfaces, and functional modules of a remote terminal unit (RTU) for monitoring and controlling distribution automation systems.Overview

A Distribution Automation (DA) Terminal Information Point Table is a structured reference used in substation and feeder automation to map all input and output points of an RTU or automation terminal. It defines how field devices, sensors, and actuators are connected, monitored, and controlled. This table is essential for SCADA integration, fault detection, Volt/VAR control, and other DA applications .

Typical Components
  1. Binary Inputs (BI)
    • Status signals from switches, circuit breakers, and relays
    • Examples: breaker open/close, disconnector position, alarm signals
    • Often mapped to IEC 61850 or DNP3 logical nodes
  2. Binary Outputs (BO)
    • Control commands to field devices
    • Examples: trip/close commands for breakers, relay actuation
    • Can include secure command outputs for safety-critical operations
  3. Analog Inputs (AI)
    • Measurements from sensors and transformers
    • Examples: voltage, current, temperature, power factor
    • Supports standard ranges like 4–20 mA, ±10 V, or Pt100/Pt1000 for temperature
  4. Analog Outputs (AO)
    • Control signals for devices requiring continuous adjustment
    • Examples: tap changer control, voltage regulator setpoints
    • Can be voltage or current controlled
  5. Communication Interfaces
    • Protocols: IEC 61850, IEC 60870-5-104, DNP3 TCP/IP, Modbus TCP
    • Supports multiple simultaneous protocols and redundant network configurations
    • Enables integration with SCADA, DERs, and other DA devices
  6. I/O Expansion Modules
    • Modular RTUs allow adding extra I/O rows or 19” racks
    • Each row can host multiple analog or digital modules
    • Supports flexible configurations for feeders, substations, or distributed energy resources
Table Structure ExamplePoint IDTypeDescriptionRange/StatusProtocol MappingNotesBI001Binary InputFeeder breaker statusOpen/ClosedIEC 61850/GOOSELocal and remote monitoringBO001Binary OutputFeeder breaker tripCommandDNP3 TCP/IPSecure outputAI001Analog InputFeeder current0–5 kAModbus TCPCT connectedAO001Analog OutputVoltage regulator setpoint0–10 VIEC 61850Continuous controlBI002Binary InputTransformer temperature alarmAlarmIEC 61850Pt100 sensorApplications
  • Fault Location, Isolation, and Service Restoration (FLISR)
  • Volt/VAR control for reactive power optimization
  • Direct Transfer Trip between substations
  • Predictive maintenance using transformer and feeder monitoring
Best Practices
  • Use modular RTUs to allow flexible expansion of I/O points
  • Map all points to standardized protocols for interoperability
  • Include redundancy in communication and processing for high availability
  • Maintain a centralized Field Network Director (FND) or SCADA system for configuration, monitoring, and zero-touch deployment This table ensures that all field devices and automation points are systematically documented, enabling efficient operation, control, and maintenance of the distribution network.
Distribution Network Automation Terminal Information Point Table

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Technical note

This reference is intended for preliminary specialty-cable research. Compatibility, link budgets, fire performance, installation methods, test limits and applicable standards must be verified for the specific project.

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