Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) software can be explained as a remote monitoring and control system that manages and regulates automated processes in all kinds of factories. Manufacturers use SCADA to keep overview operations that need high-level supervisory control and real-time data acquisition. SCADA is beneficial for a wide range of industries and applications since facility owners can smoothly combine SCADA systems with almost all different forms of production equipment. SCADA can even work with a few domestic applications, such as smart fridges and home security systems.
Rather than collecting and filing data by hand, SCADA automatically collates and delivers data about a facility’s processes and functions to a central hub. This system then transmits digitized information in real-time, while simultaneously automatically compiles backlogs of all collected data for easy analysis later.
5 primary components for data collection -
Field Instrumentation
Field Instrumentation refers to the variety of monitors and transmitters on the factory floor that SCADA applications employ. These sensors identify changes in productivity or processes and relay them to the central hub. Field instrumentation comes in several forms, including proximity sensors, temperature and pressure sensors, machine vision systems, energy monitors, amongst others.
HMI (Human Machine Interface)
HMI devices are master units that help humans in supervising the SCADA data acquisition process. Operating as the system’s central processor, the HMI also allows users to alter and modify the system if required. Operators also use HMIs to view the accumulated data through graphical user interfaces, usually computer monitors, and compile reports for later use.
Controllers - RTU’s/PLC’s
RTUs and PLCs compile data transmitted by field instrumentation, developing it for display and analysis by the human-machine interface. RTUs need microprocessors to convert data attained from sensors into usable data for the central hub. PLC operate in a way that allows users to use an interface that is directly linked with sensors without affecting the entire SCADA system.
Network Connectivity
The SCADA system relies on maintaining integrated network connectivity throughout its operation. Facilities can accomplish this using both wired lines and wireless options, linking conversion units to the master unit through either landlines or the internet. Most facilities have specialized networks on which they operate their SCADA operations, which offers added security.
Database
After analyzing and processing the data gathered by a SCADA system, a secure database is needed to store it. Historian software collects time-stamped data within the HMI, helping arrangement into the optimal format before storing it in a database.
#SchneiderElectric is a leading business in the domains of energy management, manufacturing & industrial processes, automation, and electric protection. The brand has extensively explored the use and functions of SCADA systems to augment industrial processes. #LifeIsOn