SCADA

SCADA (an acronym for supervisory control and data acquisition) is a <a href="/facts/Control_system/8CEjIDlS">control system</a> architecture comprising <a href="/facts/Computer/SQe1aK05">computers</a>, networked <a href="/facts/Data_communication/1yAhaANd">data communications</a> and <a href="/facts/Graphical_user_interface/wBlQFWDP">graphical user interfaces</a> for <a href="/facts/High-level/gGdp1JAl">high-level</a> supervision of machines and processes. It also covers sensors and other devices, such as <a href="/facts/Programmable_logic_controller/bqh0GAdb">programmable logic controllers</a>, also known as a DCS (Distributed Control System), which interface with process plant or machinery.
The operator interfaces, which enable monitoring and the issuing of process commands, such as controller <a href="/facts/Setpoint_(control_system)/UqfThpJu">setpoint</a> changes, are handled through the SCADA computer system. The subordinated operations, e.g. the real-time control logic or controller calculations, are performed by networked modules connected to the field <a href="/facts/Sensor/RN8SXbjs">sensors</a> and <a href="/facts/Actuators/mF9qVJJR">actuators</a>.
The SCADA concept was developed to be a universal means of remote-access to a variety of local control modules, which could be from different manufacturers and allowing access through standard automation <a href="/facts/List_of_automation_protocols/PBsNE25a">protocols</a>. In practice, large SCADA systems have grown to become similar to <a href="/facts/Distributed_control_system/8cS2KoMS">distributed control systems</a> in function, while using multiple means of interfacing with the plant. They can control large-scale processes spanning multiple sites, and work over large distances. It is one of the most commonly used types of <a href="/facts/Industrial_control_system/YzgsMy2x">industrial control systems</a>.

SCADA open-in-new

SCADA