Overview
IEC TS 61850-2:2003 - "Communication networks and systems in substations - Part 2: Glossary" is the terminology backbone of the IEC 61850 family. As a Technical Specification, it compiles the specific terms, definitions and abbreviations used across the IEC 61850 series for Substation Automation Systems (SAS) and is of core relevance to the Smart Grid. The glossary ensures consistent semantics for communication, device modelling and system design across vendors and projects.
Key topics and requirements
- Standardized terminology: Clear definitions for fundamental concepts such as IED (intelligent electronic device), abstract communication service interface (ACSI), logical node, data object, data attribute, bay, bus, client/server, broadcast, connection, and conformance test.
- Scope alignment: Terms are defined to apply uniformly across all parts of IEC 61850 (Part 1 through Part 10 listed in the specification), supporting interoperability between parts like configuration language, communication mappings and conformance testing.
- Interoperability enabler: Provides the common vocabulary required for consistent interpretation of functional and protocol specifications (e.g., mapping to MMS, sampled values).
- Support for testing & configuration: Definitions that directly support conformance testing, configuration lists, communication stack concepts and identification of access points and connectivity nodes.
- Cross-reference to existing standards: Where appropriate, terms reference ISO/IEC and IEEE definitions to maintain alignment with OSI model and electrical terminology.
Applications and practical value
- Use the glossary when writing or interpreting IEC 61850 specifications, technical requirements, test procedures, and vendor documentation to avoid ambiguity.
- Essential during substation project phases: system design, device selection, configuration, commissioning, and maintenance.
- Supports procurement by providing precise vocabulary for RFPs, data models and compatibility lists.
- A baseline for interoperability testing labs and certification bodies performing conformance tests and validating multi-vendor systems.
- Useful in Smart Grid integration projects where consistent semantics for communication, protection and control are critical.
Who should use this standard
- Protection & control engineers and substation automation architects
- IED and substation equipment manufacturers
- System integrators and testing laboratories
- Utility technical teams, procurement and standards committees
- Educators and consultants in Smart Grid and power system communications
Related standards
- IEC 61850 (other parts - Part 1 through Part 10 listed in the TS)
- References to OSI model standards (ISO/IEC 7498-1) and protocol mappings (e.g., MMS)
Keywords: IEC 61850-2, IEC 61850 glossary, Substation Automation Systems, SAS, Smart Grid, IED, conformance testing, abstract communication service interface, substation communication standards.