The characteristic tests are intended to be performed at the rated frequency and at “off-frequency” of the power system.
The test methods defined to measure the basic accuracy are clearly described by the standard as “non-realistic” from the power system simulation point of view, but are considered good enough for the purpose of measuring the basic accuracy of the distance protection relay.
The test methods defined for assessing other relay performances (operate time, transient overreach etc.) are instead based on realistic simulations of the power system.