SCADA systems Industrial control system

supervisory control , data acquisition (scada) control system architecture uses computers, networked data communications , graphical user interfaces high-level process supervisory management, uses other peripheral devices such programmable logic controllers , discrete pid controllers interface process plant or machinery. operator interfaces enable monitoring , issuing of process commands, such controller set point changes, handled through scada supervisory computer system. however, real-time control logic or controller calculations performed networked modules connect field sensors , actuators.

the scada concept developed universal means of remote access variety of local control modules, different manufacturers allowing access through standard automation protocols. in practice, large scada systems have grown become similar distributed control systems in function, using multiple means of interfacing plant. can control large-scale processes can include multiple sites, , work on large distances. 1 of commonly-used types of industrial control systems, there concerns scada systems being vulnerable cyberwarfare/cyberterrorism attacks.

referring functional hierarchy diagram in article:

level 1 contains plcs or rtus

level 2 contains scada software , computing platform.

the scada software exists @ supervisory level control actions performed automatically rtus or plcs. scada control functions restricted basic overriding or supervisory level intervention. example, plc may control flow of cooling water through part of industrial process set point level, scada system software allow operators change set points flow. scada enables alarm conditions, such loss of flow or high temperature, displayed , recorded. feedback control loop directly controlled rtu or plc, scada software monitors overall performance of loop.