Overview
IEC TS 61850-2:2019 - "Communication networks and systems for power utility automation - Part 2: Glossary" is the technical specification that defines the terminology used across the IEC 61850 standard series. This second edition (2019) replaces the 2003 edition and provides a consolidated, updated glossary of terms and abbreviated forms for Power Utility Automation Systems (PUAS), substation automation, and Smart Grid applications. The document is a living reference intended to ensure semantic consistency across IEC 61850 parts and related engineering artifacts (SCL, IED descriptions, logical nodes).
Key topics and technical scope
- Comprehensive glossary of terms and abbreviations specific to IEC 61850 and power utility automation (e.g., ACSI, abstract data model, logical node, IED, SCL).
- Edition changes and updates: introduction of new definitions, updating existing definitions for homogeneity across the PUAS domain, removal of deprecated terms, and clarifications/corrections to the first edition.
- Domain alignment: definitions reflect the broader power utility automation domain (not just substations), covering communication systems, devices, functions, services and tools.
- Living document nature: intended to evolve as new IEC 61850 parts are developed; cross-references to resources such as IEC Electropedia and ISO Online Browsing Platform.
- Terminology for engineering artifacts: covers terms used in configuration (SCL: System Configuration Language), IED descriptions (ICD, IID, CID), testing (FAT/SAT), and conformance statements (MICS, PICS, SICS).
Practical applications
- Ensures consistent interpretation of terms across standards, procurement documents, system designs, and vendor deliverables.
- Serves as a reference for system specification, configuration and testing in substation automation and Smart Grid projects.
- Supports development and interoperability of IED firmware, configuration tools, and system integration by providing agreed semantic definitions.
- Useful for authors of technical documentation, training materials, conformance testing procedures and regulatory/compliance documents.
Who should use this standard
- Utility engineers and system integrators working on substation and PUAS projects
- IED manufacturers and firmware developers
- Tool vendors (SCT, system specification tools, configuration tools)
- Test laboratories and certification bodies
- Standards authors, consultants and technical trainers
Related standards and resources
- Other IEC 61850 parts (Part 1, 3–10, 7‑1 to 7‑4, 8‑1, 9‑2, 9‑3, 10)
- IEC Electropedia (terminology resource) and ISO Online Browsing Platform
Keywords: IEC TS 61850-2:2019, IEC 61850 glossary, power utility automation, substation automation, Smart Grid, IED, SCL, logical node, communication networks.