In order to better fit the development of smart substations， the auto-tuning arc-suppression coil（AAC） faces new development requirements. Two design schemes of AAC for smart substations are proposed， in consideration of the features of IEC 61850 protocol， communicational features of smart substation and special functions of AAC. First， local-control scheme is implemented with concentration layout between primary equipment and secondary equipment; Second， remote-control scheme is implemented with primary equipment and secondary equipment arranged distributively， where the controller is divided into main control unit and intelligent measurement/control unit. After deep analysis of advantages and disadvantages of the two designed schemes， the local-control scheme of AAC should be given priority for smart substation below 35 kV， as it enjoys simpler structure， lower cost and better technical economy indices.