2018-11-19

Electrical Equipment Operation

and
Maintenance

Main Functions of SCADA

SCADA is a control system architecture that uses computers networked
data communications and graphical user interfaces for high-level process
supervisory management, but uses other peripheral devices such as
programmable logic and discrete PID controllers to interface to the process plant
or machinery.
Data Data
The SCADA concept was developed as a universal means of remote Presentation
access to a variety of local control modules, which could be from different
Acquisition
manufacturers allowing access through standard automation protocols. Networked
In practice, LARGE SCADA systems have grown to become similar to Data
Communication Control
distributed control systems in function, but using multiple means of interfacing
with the plant. They can control large-scale processes that can include multiple
sites and work over large distances.
SCADA Diagram
Basic

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Supervisory Computers Supervisory Computers

This is the core of the SCADA system, gathering

data on the process and sending control commands to the
field connected devices. It refers to the computer and
software responsible for communicating with the field
connection controllers, which are RTUs and PLCs, and
includes the HMI software running on operator
workstations.
In smaller SCADA systems, the supervisory
computer may be composed of a single PC, in which
case the HMI is a part of this computer

Remote Terminal Units Remote Terminal Units

Remote terminal units are connected to the

physical equipment. They connect to sensors and
actuators in the process, and are networked to the
supervisory computer system. RTUs are "intelligent I/O"
and often have embedded control capabilities such as
ladder logic in order to accomplish boolean logic
operations.

Programmable Logic Controllers Programmable Logic Controllers

Also known as PLCs, these are connected to

sensors and actuators in the process, and are networked
to the supervisory system in the same way as RTUs.
PLCs have more capabilities than RTUs, and are
programmed in one or more programming languages.

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Communication Infrastructure Human-Machine Interface

This connects the supervisory computer system to

the remote terminal units (RTUs) and PLCs, and may use
industry standard or manufacturer proprietary protocols.

Failure of the communications network does not

necessarily stop the plant process controls, and on
resumption of communications, the operator can
continue with monitoring and control. Some critical
systems will have dual redundant data highways, often
cabled via diverse routes.

Human-Machine Interface
The human-machine interface (HMI) is the operator SCADA Diagram
window of the supervisory system. It presents plant
information to the operating personnel graphically in the
form of mimic diagrams, which are a schematic
Basic

representation of the plant being controlled, and alarm and

event logging pages. The HMI is linked to the SCADA
supervisory computer to provide live data to drive the mimic
diagrams, alarm displays and trending graphs. In many
installations the HMI is the graphical user interface for the
operator, collects all data from external devices, creates
reports, performs alarming, sends notifications, etc.

SCADA Architecture
SCADA Diagram

1st Generation: Monolithic SCADA System

Basic

2nd Generation: Distributed SCADA System

3rd Generation: Networked SCADA System

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1st Generation: Monolithic SCADA System 2nd Generation: Distributed SCADA System

3rd Generation: Networked SCADA System OUTLINE

01 Introduction

02 SCADA System Components

03 SCADA Architecture
A production phase
04 Applications

Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution

Water Distribution and Reservoir System

Public Buildings Like Electrical Heating and
Cooling

Generators and Turbines

Traffic Light Control System