subject: SCADA - When Are SCADA Systems Used [print this page] SCADA - When Are SCADA Systems Used SCADA - When Are SCADA Systems Used
SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, these systems can be found in many businesses. If you are unaware of the applications of SCADA in routine activities they are widely used in applications like traffic signals and distributing power for electrical power distribution grids. Civil engineering regularly use SCADA systems.
What does a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition do?
SCADA systems often manage a number of pumps and switches in whichever application they are controlling and this is referred to as the RTU otherwise known as a Remote Telemetry Unit. Data is provided to humans through the RTU. The RTU supplies information to the operator, to prompt a set task to be carried out . SCADA does not perform the process alone, in most cases humans are required to carry out part the process, the SCADA system prompts this step .
Where can you see the use of SCADA in everyday life?
Whilst many individuals won't have heard of SCADA, they will without doubt have experienced the benefits. SCADA systems control many everyday processes such as:
Waste water treatment
Traffic lights
Chemical industry
Automotive industry
Paper and mill industries
Food processing
SCADA or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems are often used in large industries like:
Oil
Gas
Mining
Power Plants
How has SCADA moved with technological advances such as the Internet?
In more recent times, SCADA systems control more processes without the requirement of human interaction . This has come about with new technology like DCS (Distributed Control System) and intelligent RTUs (Remote Telemetry Unit) and PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers). With less human intervention needed, RTUs can carry out tasks from the information held in the master station.
Until recently plenty of SCADA or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems have used radio and direct serial and modem connections although as today's technology moves forward much of the communication requirements are now being met through the use of Ethernet.
Good SCADA engineering wouldn't normally connect to the Internet in order to reduce security risks. This tends to lessen
the threat of cyber terrorism from illegal access to the SCADA system.
