Area Limitations on Smart Grid Computer Networks

Smart grid implementations rely on the real-time monitoring and controlling of the electric power grid. To achieve real time there is need for a messaging system with minimum delays. After mentioning latest implementations and their delays we analyze the role of the different communication protocols needed within smart grids and we describe key factors to a message's delay. Taking into consideration a packet's speed constraints we then calculate a radius, within which, the ETSI communication requirements for smart grids are satisfied.