SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) is a control system architecture comprising computers, networked data communications, and graphical user interfaces for high-level supervision of machines and processes.
SCADA (Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition) software is a type of industrial control system (ICS) software used for gathering and analyzing real-time data, controlling industrial processes locally or at remote locations, and monitoring, managing, and optimizing complex industrial processes. SCADA systems are crucial in industries such as energy, oil and gas, water, power, manufacturing, and other critical infrastructures.
The primary functions of SCADA software include:
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Data Collection and Handling: Collects data in real-time from various sensors, meters, and other data sources at the field level. This data might include measurements like temperature, pressure, flow rates, voltage, and other important parameters.
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Monitoring: Provides a visual representation of the processes being monitored through graphical user interfaces (GUIs). Operators can view real-time data, graphs, alarms, and other key information about the processes.
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Control: Allows operators to send commands back to the processes. This might involve opening or closing valves, starting or stopping pumps, setting thresholds, etc.
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Data Storage and Retrieval: Logs and stores data for future reference. This historical data is vital for trend analysis, optimization, and compliance reporting.
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Alarm & Event Handling: Notifies operators if certain conditions (defined by set thresholds) are met. For instance, if the pressure in a pipeline becomes too high, an alarm will alert the operator.
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Reporting: Generates regular reports based on the data collected. These reports are useful for analysis, optimization, and compliance.
SCADA software can be designed to run on centralized servers or be distributed across several connected devices. They can also be integrated with other systems, such as enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, to facilitate broader business operations and decision-making processes.