MGC – Megger GOOSE Configurator

The MGC tool enables users to sniff and capture GOOSE messages from the network, essential for network monitoring, troubleshooting. It also allows to configure FREJA and SMRT test sets for GOOSE subscriptions or publications.

MGC allows users to map GOOSE messages to binary inputs (subscriptions) or outputs (publications) of FREJA/SMRT for receiving/sending (subscribing/publishing) GOOSE messages. It is also possible to map the sending of a GOOSE message to the status of a BI, allowing easy and comfortable simulation of the status of the BI to be sent by the FREJA/SMRT. 

The "MERGE" feature compares network captured GOOSE messages with SCL-imported GOOSE messages, helping identify discrepancies between expected and observed messages for effective troubleshooting and configuration validation.

MGC performs SCD file validation by comparing expected GOOSE messages (described on the SCD file) with captured GOOSE messages from the network, highlighting discrepancies that require investigation and correction. This comparison is part of the so-called “Merge” algorithm.

MGC allows to activate (or deactivate) the IEC 61850 SIMULATION parameters and/or the test flag in the quality string, ensuring compatibility with the simulation and test mode mechanisms described in IEC 61850 Edition 2.

MGC's intuitive interface, network sniffing capabilities, and merging features streamline troubleshooting processes, ensuring reliable substation communication configurations.

The MGC addresses cybersecurity concerns during live substation maintenance by using dedicated equipment with embedded software/firmware and a local HMI, enabling non-intrusive testing without direct PC connections to the substation's operational IEC 61850 Ethernet bus. This approach mitigates cybersecurity risks associated with traditional methods that involve direct PC connections. This method, pioneered by Megger as early as 2009, incorporates non-intrusive testing methodologies like GOOSE sniffers to securely detect and validate GOOSE messages, ensuring accurate documentation validation.

The advantage lies in the simplicity and clarity it offers during commissioning. When multiple people, tools, and software are in use simultaneously, it can be challenging to track changes in IEC 61850 GOOSE traffic. With a dedicated standalone GOOSE sniffer, always active and monitoring, any unexpected alterations or missing signals can be immediately detected. This real-time insight into GOOSE messages is crucial for commissioning and troubleshooting, as it is recognized by the long on Megger's experience in this field.

As of now, Megger doesn't offer an "MMS testing tool." For MMS testing, we recommend tools from companies specializing in SCADA and RTU systems, as they understand MMS complexity and can provide non-disruptive solutions for IEDs thanks to their long experience in providing SCADA systems and tools.

Megger aims to offer 24/7 IEC 61850 testing devices once compliance with the tough IEC 61850-3 is achieved for hardware and EMC requirements (Communication networks and systems for power utility automation - Part 3: General requirements). Meeting these requirements is crucial and it's uncertain if many devices on the market currently fulfil them. Meanwhile, it's advisable to check if suppliers have considered these specifications in their procurement requirements, to avoid that they install non-compliant IEC 61850-3 devices in their substations.