Power quality-two different perspectives

The problem of short-duration transients or momentary disturbances and their effect on sensitive customer (user) equipment such as computers are examined. One perspective, from the utility side of the meter, covers any power system disturbance which originates on that side of the meter and which adversely affects customers' equipment. The other perspective is from the customer side of the meter. In that regard, the causes of the disturbances are usually restricted to the customer's premises. The authors suggest effective ways to satisfy these special customer power requirements. It is hoped that this will provide some insights into the distinction between those power-related problems which are in the control of the utility and those which are controllable only by the user. Solutions on both sides of the meter are presented since often utility engineers must cross over the line to varying degrees to meet their customers' needs.< >