Frequency measurement of distorted signals using Fourier and zero crossing techniques

An approach to the design of a digital algorithm for network frequency estimation is proposed. The algorithm is derived by using the Fourier and zero crossing techniques. The Fourier method is used for digital filtering and the zero crossing technique is applied to the cosine or sine components of the original signal, which is usually corrupted by higher harmonics. The algorithm showed a very high level of robustness as well as a high measurement accuracy over a wide range of frequency changes. It can be used for frequency tracking in power networks when higher harmonics are present in the voltage or current signals. The theoretical basis and practical implementation of the technique are described. The performance of the developed algorithm has been verified by the computer simulations, and the field and laboratory tests.