UR8HH Cybersecurity-Enhanced Multifunctional Power Relay

Description

UR8HH

The GE UR8HH functions as a secure, centralized protection and control hub, positioned at the core of critical power infrastructure—bridging field devices (current transformers, circuit breakers) and control systems (SCADA/DCS) while enforcing strict access controls. Unlike the GE UR8FH (its base-model counterpart), the GE UR8HH builds on multifunctional protection (overcurrent, differential, distance logic) by adding embedded cybersecurity features: role-based access control (RBAC), secure boot, firmware integrity verification, and encrypted communication channels (TLS 1.3 for Ethernet, signed Modbus/DNP3 messages).

UR8HH

It integrates seamlessly into existing UR-family architectures, using the same backplane compatibility as the GE UR8FH but with expanded I/O (16 analog inputs, 32 digital I/O) to handle more complex monitoring tasks. The relay processes real-time data in under 80ms—faster than the GE UR8FH—and supports IEC 61850-9-2LE (sampled values) for high-speed substation automation, enabling peer-to-peer communication between relays without relying on a central CPU. Its built-in cyber event logging tracks all configuration changes and access attempts, providing auditable records for compliance audits.

UR8HH

Main features and advantages:

Choosing the GE UR8HH delivers strategic value that extends beyond basic protection. Engineered for critical infrastructure, its redundant power supplies and fault-tolerant design ensure 99.999% availability—critical for assets like grid interconnections or hospital backup systems where downtime is catastrophic. The embedded cybersecurity features eliminate the need for external firewalls or intrusion detection systems, reducing hardware costs and complexity: RBAC ensures only authorized technicians can modify settings, while secure boot prevents malware from compromising firmware. Compared to retrofitting the GE UR8FH with third-party cyber tools, the GE UR8HH cuts integration time by 50% and reduces long-term maintenance overhead, as all cyber and protection features are managed through a single interface (GE EnerVista UR Setup with secure login). Its expanded I/O also future-proofs your system: additional analog/digital channels let you add new sensors (e.g., partial discharge monitors) without replacing the relay, protecting your investment as your power system evolves.

UR8HH

Application fields:

The GE UR8HH is purpose-built for environments where security and speed are non-negotiable. In electric utilities, it protects EHV transmission lines and substation transformers, complying with NERC CIP by encrypting data and logging all access—critical for avoiding regulatory fines. In nuclear and fossil fuel power plants, it monitors generator excitation systems and turbine controls, using its fast fault response to prevent equipment damage and its cyber defenses to block unauthorized access to safety-related systems. It’s also a staple in data center power distribution, where it safeguards UPS systems and critical bus bars: its encrypted communication with SCADA systems prevents cyberattacks that could disrupt cloud services, while its 80ms fault detection minimizes downtime for mission-critical applications. In each use case, the GE UR8HH outperforms the GE UR8FH by balancing stricter security, faster response, and greater scalability—essential for today’s smart, connected power grids.

UR8HH

Related products:

GE UR8FH – Base-model multifunctional relay (without enhanced cybersecurity) for non-critical HV/MV applications, compatible with GE UR8HH’s configuration tools.

GE UR8HJ – Redundant-pair variant of the GE UR8HH, designed for 2-out-of-3 (2oo3) voting schemes in nuclear safety systems.

GE UR8HK – High-temperature version of the GE UR8HH, rated for -50°C to +85°C (-58°F to +185°F) for desert or arctic substations.

GE UR8HL – Add-on cyber monitoring module for the GE UR8HH, providing real-time threat detection and SIEM integration.

GE UR8HM – Low-power variant of the GE UR8HH (10W max draw) for remote off-grid applications (e.g., wind farms with limited power).

GE UR8HN – Expanded-protocol version of the GE UR8HH, supporting additional protocols like OPC UA for IoT integration with smart grid platforms.

GE UR8HP – Precision timing variant of the GE UR8HH, incorporating GPS/PTP (IEEE 1588) for sub-millisecond synchronization in wide-area monitoring systems.

GE UR8HQ – Legacy-compatible version of the GE UR8HH, supporting older protocols (e.g., IEC 60870-5-101) for integration with aging SCADA systems.

Installation and maintenance:

Before installing the GE UR8HH, verify that your control system meets NERC CIP or IEC 62351 requirements—this ensures seamless integration of the relay’s cyber features. Confirm the 19-inch rack has 350mm of depth to accommodate the relay’s extended housing (critical for fiber optic cable management) and check that cooling airflow is unobstructed (the GE UR8HH generates more heat than the GE UR8FH, so additional fans may be needed in dense panels). Update your EnerVista software to version 8.0 or higher—older versions won’t support the relay’s cyber configuration tools.

For maintenance, perform monthly cyber health checks: review the relay’s event log for unauthorized access attempts and validate firmware integrity via EnerVista’s built-in verification tool. Quarterly, test redundant communication paths (Ethernet/fiber) to ensure failover works seamlessly, and annually, conduct a full cybersecurity audit (including penetration testing) to maintain compliance. Always back up configurations to a secure, offline location—never store backups on the same network as the relay.

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