Journal of Electronics and Informatics
IRO Journals
Volume 7 — Issue 2 — June 2025

Underground Cable Fault Analysis by Distance Calculation and Location Detection using Microcontroller and GPS

https://doi.org/10.36548/jei.2025.2.001
Aswanth S.
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Dhirajlal Gandhi College of Technology, Salem, Tamilnadu, India
Shanmugapriya V.
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Dhirajlal Gandhi College of Technology, Salem, Tamilnadu, India
Praveen Kumar S.
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Dhirajlal Gandhi College of Technology, Salem, Tamilnadu, India
Padmanaban T.
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Dhirajlal Gandhi College of Technology, Salem, Tamilnadu, India
Sowmya A K.
Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Dhirajlal Gandhi College of Technology, Salem, Tamilnadu, India
Manjupriya R.
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Dhirajlal Gandhi College of Technology, Salem, Tamilnadu, India
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How to Cite

S., Aswanth, Shanmugapriya V., Praveen Kumar S., Padmanaban T., Sowmya A K., and Manjupriya R. 2025. “Underground Cable Fault Analysis by Distance Calculation and Location Detection Using Microcontroller and GPS”. Journal of Electronics and Informatics 7 (2): 80-94. https://doi.org/10.36548/jei.2025.2.001.
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Keywords

— PIC16F887
— ESP8266
— GSM
— Voltage Sensor
— Current Sensor
— GPS
Published: 09-05-2025

Abstract

In today’s power distribution systems, underground cables are preferred for their safety and tidy appearance. However, detecting faults in these cables can be slow, costly, and technically challenging. This study introduces a smart fault detection and location system that uses the PIC16F887 microcontroller as its core. It sends a low DC voltage through the cable and uses voltage and current sensors to monitor for irregularities. Based on the changes in readings, the system estimates the fault distance using Ohm’s Law. To pinpoint the exact location, a GPS module is included. The fault details are shown on an LCD and also transmitted through GSM for SMS alerts. Additionally, the ESP8266 Wi-Fi module allows the data to be shared online for remote monitoring. This solution provides faster and more accurate fault detection, reducing repair time and improving the reliability of underground cable systems.

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