Description

PSCAD (Power Systems Computer Aided Design) is a powerful and flexible graphical user interface to the world-renowned, EMTDC electromagnetic transient simulation engine. PSCAD enables the user to schematically construct a circuit, run a simulation, analyse the results, and manage the data in a completely integrated, graphical environment. Online plotting functions, controls and meters are also included, enabling the user to alter system parameters during a simulation run, and thereby view the effects while the simulation is in progress.

PSCAD comes complete with a library of pre-programmed and tested simulation models, ranging from simple passive elements and control functions, to more complex models, such as electric machines, full-on FACTS devices, transmission lines and cables. If a required model does not exist, PSCAD provides avenues for building custom models. For example, custom models may be constructed by piecing together existing models to form a module, or by constructing rudimentary models from scratch in a flexible design environment.

The following are some common models found in the PSCAD master library:

• Resistors, inductors, capacitors
• Mutually coupled windings, such as transformers
• Frequency dependent transmission lines and cables (including the most accurate time domain line model in the world!)
• Current and voltage sources
• Switches and breakers
• Protection and relaying
• Diodes, thyristors and GTOs
• Analog and digital control functions
• AC and DC machines, exciters, governors, stabilizers and inertial models
• Meters and measuring functions
• Generic DC and AC controls
• HVDC, SVC, and other FACTS controllers
• Wind source, turbines and governors

PSCAD, and its simulation engine EMTDC, have enjoyed close to 40 years of development, inspired by ideas and suggestions by its ever strengthening, worldwide user base. This development philosophy has helped to establish PSCAD as one of the most powerful and intuitive CAD software packages available.