Implementing 5G-Enabled Smart Grid Testbed Using Raspberry PI and 5G Hat for Smart Grid Communication.

Photo of the Raspberry PI + 5G hat device.

Join us in implementing and testing 5G-enabled Micro-Phasor Measurement Units using Raspberry Pi and 5G Hat for cutting-edge smart grid communications! 

Project description

"Micro-Phasor Measurement Units (-PMUs) are pivotal in monitoring and transmitting high-accuracy voltage and current data within the distribution grid. These units are crucial for applications such as state estimation, protection, and control in smart grids. The Wireless Networks 4 Smart Systems (WN4SS) Lab has developed LTE-enabled -PMUs using Arduino microcontrollers and LTE-cat M (a variant of LTE) modules. Originally utilizing LTE networks, the scope of this project is to enhance the capabilities of -PMUs by enabling them with 5G technology using Raspberry PI and 5G Hat modules.
The student will contribute to the development and enhancement of a 5G-enabled -PMU. This project involves the extension of existing LTE-enabled units to incorporate 5G technology, facilitating faster and more reliable data transmission. The performance of these upgraded units will be rigorously tested over 5G network. Key performance indicators such as end-to-end delay, jitter, and packet loss will be measured under various traffic conditions. This analysis will provide valuable insights into the communication network performance, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of smart grid operations." 

Project outcome

  • Develop and integrate 5G technology into existing LTE-enabled -PMU units.
  • Program the Raspberry PI with 5G connectivity
  • Analyze and document the performance of the communication in terms of end-to-end delay, jitter, and packet loss." 

Project details

Timing, eligibility and other details
Length of commitment Less than a semester; 0-2 months
Start time Anytime 
In-person, remote, or hybrid? Hybrid Project 
Level of collaboration Individual student project 
Benefits Academic credit 
Who is eligible All undergraduate students who have experience with Arduino, General coding experience (Python and C++ preferred), experience with Raspberry PI

Core partners

  • Faculty: Dr. Malandra
  • Wireless Networks for Smart Systems (WN4SS) Lab

Project mentor

Filippo Malandra

Assistant Professor of Research

Electrical Engineering

Phone: (716) 645-1151

Email: filippom@buffalo.edu

Start the project

  1. Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
  2. After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.) 
Start the Digital Badge

Preparation activities

Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase. 

Send an email to the faculty to express your interest and apply for this opportunity. Please share your resume and course transcripts. You will then be contacted and an initial meeting will be set up. 

Keywords

5G Smart Grids, Smart Grid Communication, LTE, 5G, Arduino, Raspberry PI, Network Performance