SAM600 Process Interface Unit
SAM600 version 3.0 combines the functionalities of a merging unit and a switchgear control unit in a single device — giving utilities and system operators at all voltage levels the flexibility and investment protection they need on the path to the digital substation.
Key highlights
- Improve grid reliability
- Enhance safety
- Reduce cost
- Product details
- Resources
- FAQ
Overview
Modernizing the grid with SAM600
Process Interface Units and merging units are at the heart of digital substation adoption — enabling the advanced automation and communication applications that help utilities and system operators tackle the challenges of modern power grids.
SAM600 version 3.0 is Hitachi Energy's answer: a one-box process interface unit that combines backup protection, high-resolution power-quality metering, and high-speed disturbance recording with flexible merging unit and switchgear control functionalities. It integrates seamlessly with protection and control IEDs through IEC 61850 Ed. 2.1 and IEC 61869, and it is configured with the same PCM600 tool used across the full Hitachi Energy’s IED portfolio.
Key capabilities
One-box, modular hardware architecture
SAM600 can be configured as a merging unit, a switchgear control unit, or both — supporting different installation philosophies and feeder layouts. Its modular hardware enables on-site servicing and repairs, optimizes panel layouts, and reduces system costs through direct circuit breaker tripping.
Protection, metering, and recording in one device
Backup protection packages for single- and double-breaker applications extend SAM600's role beyond data acquisition into active fault clearance support. Power-quality sampled-value streams at 14.4 kHz (F14400S6 profile) deliver high-resolution metering alongside protection — from the same device. The high-speed disturbance recorder captures up to 30 analog and 150 I/O channels per record at 4.8 kHz or 14.4 kHz, buffering up to 100 records in COMTRADE 2013 format.
Support for latest standards
SAM600 is fully compliant with IEC 61850 Ed. 2.1, IEC 61869, and IEC 61850-90-3 (PTP), enabling seamless integration into existing digital substation architectures. Its advanced analog input system supports both protection and power-quality applications.
Tailored application packages
Three packages — Merging Unit, Process Interface Unit, and Metering Merging Unit — with Standard, Plus, and Advanced feature tiers cover the full range of digital substation use cases. Four physical access points support HSR, PRP, and RSTP for versatile communication architectures.
Cybersecurity
Secure boot ensures only signed, trusted firmware executes on the device. Role-based access control integrates with LDAP and Active Directory. Communication services are configurable per port, and unused ports can be disabled entirely.
Browser-based user interface
The comprehensive WebUI supports parameterization, analog simulation, network traffic capture, and disturbance record export — enabling efficient commissioning and fault tracing without additional tools. Configuration is handled via PCM600, consistent with the broader Hitachi Energy IED portfolio.
Benefits
Improve grid reliability
A solid foundation for digital substations
Advanced device and communications supervision with 1 ms breaker control cycle times for rapid fault clearance. Sampled values published at 4.8 kHz and 14.4 kHz support both protection and metering. Backup protection packages provide an additional safety net during primary protection outages.
Enhance safety
Safer solution for demanding environments
Fewer live connections and copper cables reduces risk for people and infrastructure. Intuitive connector design prevents wrong connections. Only signed firmware executes on the device, and unused ports can be disabled to minimize attack surface.
Reduce cost
Optimized lifecycle cost and sustainability
Single-box design interfaces directly with primary switchgear, optimizing spares and onsite maintenance. Intelligent module design enables 80% faster module exchange. Standard five-year warranty is extendable to ten years, with a rapid-response service program included.
Features
Two form factors. Take your pick.
3U 1/2 rack form-factor: Eight hardware slots — ideal for small feeders, single breakers, or busbar voltage applications.
3U full-rack form-factor: Up to 16 hardware modules — ideal for large feeders such as transformers, or as a backup unit.
Designed to last
Type-tested for demanding environments, including direct switchyard installation:
- Conformal coating per IPC-A-610 Class 2
- Continuous operation –40 °C to +70 °C; up to +85 °C for 16 hours
- IEC 60255-1 Class 2 vibration approval
- RoHS- and REACH-compliant, EPD certified, plastic-free packaging
Scalable configuration
| Package | Standard | Plus | Advanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merging Unit | M10 | M15 | M19 |
| Process Interface Unit | U10 | U15 | U19 |
| Metering Merging Unit | M10 | — | M19 |
- Merging Unit — One or two IEC 61869-9 streams, three-phase breakeroperation, backup protection, disturbance recorder 4.8 kHz
- Process Interface Unit — Up to four IEC 61869-9 streams, single-phasebreaker operation for one or two circuit breakers at 1 ms, BOSO trip-coil supervision,primary apparatus supervision, backup protection
- Metering Merging Unit — Up to three IEC 61869-9 streams at up to 14.4kHz, high-speed disturbance recorder, optional correction-factor overlays
Your digital substation partner – for today and tomorrow
To find out more about which services and additional offerings would be best for your organization, please get in touch with our team.