Partial discharge detection using software defined radio

Partial discharge (PD) is an electrical discharge that occurs within part of the dielectric separating two HV (High Voltage) conductors. PD causes damage to the dielectric which typically deteriorates with time. If left untreated, PD may result in catastrophic insulation failure, destruction of HV equipment, and disruption of power supply. The emergence of wireless network technology and software defined radio has opened new opportunities in PD monitoring and early detection of failures. This paper proposes the use of Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP) technology for PD detection.