SCADA Systems
SCADA systems are used to control dispersed assets where centralized data acquisition is as important as control . These systems are used in distribution systems such as water distribution and wastewater collection systems, oil and natural gas pipelines, electrical utility transmission and distribution systems, and rail and other public transportation systems.
SCADA systems integrate data acquisition systems with data transmission systems and HMI software to provide a centralized monitoring and control [..]
Industrial Control System – Network Components
There are different network characteristics for each layer within a control system hierarchy. Network topologies across different ICS implementations vary with modern systems using Internet-based IT and enterprise integration strategies.
Control networks have merged with corporate networks to allow control engineers to monitor and control systems from outside of the control system network. The connection may also allow enterprise-level decision-makers to obtain access to process data. The following is a list [..]
ICS – Control Components
The following is a list of the major control components of an ICS:
- Control Server. The control server hosts the DCS or PLC supervisory control software that is designed to communicate with lower-level control devices. The control server accesses subordinate control modules over an ICS network.
- SCADA Server or Master Terminal Unit (MTU). The SCADA Server is the device that acts as the master in a SCADA system. Remote terminal units and [..]
ICS Operation
The basic operation of an ICS is shown in the figure below. Key components include the following:
- Control Loop. A control loop consists of sensors for measurement, controller hardware such as PLCs, actuators such as control valves, breakers, switches and motors, and the communication of variables. Controlled variables are transmitted to the controller from the sensors. The controller interprets the signals and generates corresponding manipulated variables, based on set points, which [..]
Industrial Control Systems
Industrial control system (ICS) is a general term that encompasses several types of control systems, including supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, distributed control systems (DCS), and other control system configurations such as skid-mounted Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) often found in the industrial sectors and critical infrastructures.
ICS are typically used in industries such as electrical, water and wastewater, oil and natural gas, chemical, transportation, pharmaceutical, pulp and paper, food [..]