Overview
EN IEC 62056-8-8:2020 specifies how the DLMS/COSEM application layer and the COSEM object model (as defined in IEC 62056‑5‑3, -6‑1 and -6‑2) are mapped and used over the lower-layer protocols of the ISO/IEC 14908 series. In practice this creates a DLMS/COSEM communication profile for control networks (including powerline channels) enabling standardized electricity metering data exchange over ISO/IEC 14908 networks. The standard is part of the IEC 62056 suite and follows the structure of IEC 62056-1-0 and IEC TS 62056-1-1.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Protocol layering and mapping
- Defines how DLMS/COSEM application services operate over the ISO/IEC 14908 protocol stack (physical, data link, network, transport).
- Specifies a Service Mapping and an Adaptation Layer to ensure correct message encapsulation and flow.
- Identification, addressing and registration
- Covers addressing schemes, object referencing and registration/connection management for COSEM application associations.
- Application services
- Rules for ACSE-based association establishment/release (COSEM-OPEN/RELEASE), xDLMS services and transferring long application messages.
- COSEM object model and OBIS
- Normative guidance on mandatory COSEM objects, object_list structure and OBIS relation for meter data semantics.
- Security
- Multi-layer security considerations: DLMS/COSEM security mechanisms, adaptation layer protections and lower-layer options.
- Includes Annex D describing the OSGP‑AES‑128‑PSK security suite (key derivation, secure channel initialization, authenticated encryption).
- Implementation and migration
- Informative annexes provide examples, interface classes for ISO/IEC 14908, implementation guidance and migration paths.
- Media considerations
- Guidance for media access, bandwidth, timing and use of powerline channels (references include ISO/IEC 14908-3 and EN 50065-1 for low-voltage signalling).
Applications and who uses this standard
- Utility companies implementing smart metering and grid monitoring systems.
- Meter manufacturers and firmware developers building DLMS/COSEM-compliant devices for ISO/IEC 14908 networks (including powerline communications).
- System integrators and network engineers designing field-area networks and head-end systems.
- Regulators and procurement teams specifying interoperable metering interfaces and security requirements.
Related standards
Keywords: DLMS/COSEM, ISO/IEC 14908, electricity metering data exchange, communication profile, COSEM object model, OBIS, smart meters, powerline communications, OSGP‑AES‑128‑PSK.
