The use of intelligent systems that automatically operate and coordinate the use of all of a utility's distribution components in real time is discussed. Most utility computers and communications systems were designed only to perform specific functions, such as supervisory control and data acquisition and were installed with no, or only limited, capability to communicate with other systems. By connecting all the components into a single communications network, utilities can save as much as 10% of their annual operation and maintenance expenses. The features of automatic distribution are discussed, and their installation is briefly considered.
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