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Connection Between the Host Computer and the OPAL-RT Simulator

The host computer and the OPAL-RT simulator (i.e. target) can be linked in several ways, as shown in figure 1 below.

• LAN Connection: In this configuration, the host computer communicates with the OPAL-RT simulator through a Local Area Network (LAN). This connection allows the host computer to locally or remotely manage or have access to more than one real-time simulator connected to the LAN. Conversely, multiple host computers running RT-LAB can access a simulator through this configuration (Figure 1a).

• Network switch connection: The simulator target and the host computer can be connected to the same physical network switch, which in turn does not need to be connected to a LAN (Figure 1b).

• Direct connection through Ethernet interface: If there is no need to access the real-time simulator from multiple terminals or if simply neither a LAN nor a network switch is available, users can directly connect the host computer and the simulator through an Ethernet adapter (Figure 1c). A standard Ethernet cable suffices if the host’s Ethernet adapter supports Auto-MDIX (Auto-Medium Dependent Interface Crossover), which is the case for most modern equipment. Users are advised to verify the system documentation. In case the adapter does not support Auto-MDIX or if the user is not sure, an Ethernet crossover cable must be used (Auto-MDIX will also support a crossover cable). Further instructions on the configuration of the host computer are covered here.

LAN and Network Switch Connection

The LAN and Network Switch connections are recommended since they do not require any special configuration of the network adapter.
If the host Ethernet adapter is configured to obtain an IP address automatically, it will be capable of detecting a simulator connected to the same switch or local area network (LAN).

For both these configurations, connect the OPAL-RT simulator’s Ethernet port to a network switch. The network switch in turn is linked to the host PC or the LAN where the intended host is connected, as exemplified in figure 2 below.

Encoder Link Between the OPAL-RT OP8219 and the Festo 8540 Dynamometer

OPAL-RT OP8219 Inverters/Decoders Interface Panel provides inputs for two ABZ encoders, which are ultimately accessible to the OPAL-RT simulator via a set of digital inputs.
In turn, Festo 8540 dynamometer includes a 1024-pulses-per-revolution ABZ encoder output that can be used for control purposes to establish the position/speed/acceleration of the dynamometer itself and any machine coupled to its shaft (i.e. the 8505 WRIM). The connection between the 8540 dynamometer’s encoder output and OP8219’s encoder input is straightforward using the provided cable, as shown in figure 3.

Control Connections Between OPAL-RT’s Hardware and Festo 8857 Inverter

OPAL-RT OP8219 Inverters/Decoders Interface Panel provides two 6-pulse inverter outputs that can control Festo 8857 IGBT inverters.
The voltage levels of the inverter outputs are specifically conditioned to directly drive the 8857 inverter.
Connection between the OP8219 and the 8857 inverter is straightforward: employ the provided DB9 cables to connect the selected OP8219 inverter output to the corresponding inverter input in the 8857 inverter, as shown in figure 4.

Power Connections

Compatible OPAL-RT Simulator and OP8219

Make sure to connect both the OPAL-RT simulator and the OP8219 to a 120/208 AC power outlet.
The back of the OP8219 displays a set of 4 LEDs indicating that all the DC levels (+5, +12, and ±15 V) required for the correct operation of the OP8219.

FESTO 8857 Inverter Modules

Festo 8857 inverter modules need to be connected to a 24 V AC source to supply the power for the control logic and IGBT switching.
The power inputs of the 8857 modules can be daisy-chained to be connected to the 24 V AC power output in Festo 8525 power source module, as shown in figure 5.

Festo 8525 Power Source

Make sure to connect Festo 8525 power source to a suitable 120/208 AC power outlet.
The RCP-EC2K kit includes Festo 8895 power splitter, which can split a single incoming three-phase power circuit into two circuits.
The rating of the 8895 splitter allows the connection of both the 8525 power source and the 8540 dynamometer.