Motivated by the effects of deregulation over power quality and the subsequent need of\nnew types of measurements, this paper assesses different implementations of an estimate for the\nspectral kurtosis, considered as a low-level harmonic detection. Performance of a processor-based\nsystem is compared with a field programmable gate array (FPGA)-based solution, in order to\nevaluate the accuracy of this processing function for implementation in autonomous measurement\nequipment. The fourth-order spectrum, with applications in different fields, needs advanced\ndigital signal processing, making it necessary to compare implementation alternatives. In order to\nobtain reproducible results, the implementations have been developed using common design and\nprogramming tools. Several characteristics of the implementations are compared, showing that the\nincreasing complexity and reduced cost of the current FPGA models make the implementation of\ncomplex mathematical functions feasible. We show that FPGAs improve the processing capability\nof the best processor using an operating frequency 33 times lower. This fact strongly supports its\nimplementation in hand-held instruments.
Loading....