What Is ADMS?

ADMS, or Advanced Distribution Management System, is a software platform that combines distribution management, outage management, and other grid applications into one environment. 

It gives operators a unified view of feeders, substations, and distributed energy resources, while providing advanced tools for fault management, voltage optimization, and restoration.

Unlike older systems, ADMS integrates functions that were once separate, such as Distribution Management Systems (DMS) and Outage Management System (OMS). This convergence allows utilities to manage distribution networks more efficiently, coordinate outages, and incorporate renewable energy sources with greater accuracy.

Why ADMS Matters in Utilities

Distribution grids face growing complexity. The rise of renewable generation, electric vehicles, and increasing customer expectations put pressure on legacy systems that were never designed for today’s conditions. Operators need modern platforms that help them maintain reliability while managing these new dynamics.

ADMS provides that foundation by consolidating key distribution functions into a single system. It enables operators to view network topology, detect outages, and monitor overall system status without relying on multiple disconnected tools. 

ADMS strengthens grid awareness at the system level, and when integrated with advanced visualization solutions, it gives control rooms a complete picture. This helps operators not just know what is happening, but see it clearly and respond with confidence.

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How ADMS Works

ADMS collects data from SCADA, GIS, historian systems, and field devices, then builds a real-time model of the distribution grid. On top of this model, it runs advanced applications, including:

• Fault location, isolation, and service restoration (FLISR)
• Volt/VAR optimization for energy efficiency
• Distributed energy resource management (DERMS functions)
• Contingency and switching analysis

These capabilities let utilities handle both routine and emergency conditions with greater precision. For example, when a fault occurs, ADMS can identify the likely location, isolate the affected section, and suggest switching operations to restore service to unaffected areas.

During major storms, ADMS supports outage management by aligning crew dispatch, GIS mapping, and restoration priorities. During normal conditions, it optimizes voltage and reactive power flows, helping reduce losses and manage distributed generation. 

For long-term planning, it provides data that helps utilities model future network scenarios and investment needs.

How Primate Improves ADMS

ADMS delivers powerful applications, but the information can overwhelm operators when displayed through traditional dashboards. Primate Technologies integrates ADMS outputs with SCADA, EMS, OMS, and GIS into one visual environment.

Our GridGuardian™ platform validates and processes ADMS data in real time, ensuring the network model is accurate and reliable. BlackBoard™ renders results (such as FLISR recommendations or voltage optimization outputs) into distortion-free vector graphics that remain clear on desktops and large video walls. 

TileViewer extends the same view securely across locations, while TileBuilder ensures updates are displayed instantly, even during fast-moving events.

With Primate, ADMS becomes easier to interpret and act on. Operators no longer fight fragmented displays or delayed updates. Instead, they see a unified, live picture of the distribution grid that supports faster restoration, safer operations, and more reliable service delivery.

Ready to see how Primate makes ADMS clearer and more actionable?