DNP3 Communication on PowerLogic P5 Protection Relays

Issue:

How to configure and use DNP3 protocol for PowerLogic P5 relays, including supported features, security considerations, and integration requirements.

Product:

PowerLogic P5 Protection Relay

Environment:

SCADA systems using DNP3 over Ethernet (TCP/IP) or serial (RS-485/fiber)
Industrial networks with multi-protocol support
Configuration tools: eSetup Easergy Pro, Web HMI

Cause:

DNP3 is widely used for event-driven communication in utility automation. Incorrect configuration of addressing, deadbands, or security settings can lead to communication

failures, missing events, or control issues.

Resolution:

• Protocol Support:
• Available on Ethernet (TCP/IP, port 20000) and serial RS-485/fiber
• Selectable in COMMUNICATION menu or via eSetup Easergy Pro/Web HMI
• Multi-Protocol:
• Can run with IEC 61850, Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP on separate IP ports
• Supports up to 8 TCP clients and 3 IP addresses simultaneously
• Data Exchange:
• Real-time measurements, alarms/status, controls, time-stamped events
• Disturbance records, SOE files, setting group changes
• Supports unsolicited/event reporting and class 0–3 polling
• Data Model:
• 64 Binary Inputs, 32 Double-Bit Inputs, 32 Analog Inputs, 32 Counters, 32 Binary Outputs
• Extensive mapping for protection, measurement, control, and configuration
• Function Codes:
• Read (1), Write (2), Select (3), Operate (4), Direct Operate (5), Restart (13/14), File operations (25/26/28/30)
• Time Sync:
• UTC-based, DNP3 time sync (group 50), NEED_TIME bit handling
• Security:
• No native encryption; use VLANs, firewalls, TLS tunnels, and IP whitelisting (up to 8 CIDR ranges)
• Configuration Parameters:
• Bit rate: 1200–115200 bps, parity, 2/4 wire, slave address (1–65519)
• Deadband, unsolicited response, SBO timeout (60s), multi-fragment support
• Integration:
• Fully documented mapping tables for SCADA integration, including scaling and enumerations

Released for: Schneider Electric Canada