What does FOCT mean in UNCLASSIFIED

A Fiber Optic Current Transformer (FOCT) is a device used to measure and record current in an electrical system. It utilizes optical fiber to isolate the measuring device from the circuit being measured, helping to protect it from potentially dangerous high voltages found in some systems.

The primary advantages of using an FOCT are its accuracy and safety features. Because the voltage levels are isolated from the monitoring hardware, it can be safely used even in circuits with very high voltages present without the need for additional external protection or safety equipment. This helps reduce costs as well as potential risks associated with working around these hazardous areas.

Traditional current transformers require a wire carrying current through them to generate a signal that can then be read by monitoring hardware. An FOCT instead uses optical fibers to get this signal, which offers higher efficiency since the voltage isolation provided makes it much safer than standard CTs when dealing with high voltage circuits. Additionally, since there is no physical connection between the transformer and what's being measured, remote monitoring is more easily achievable with an FOCT compared to traditional CTs.