Working with SCADA systems when not properly trained and qualified can almost be as dangerous as working with PLCs without proper PLC training. Some times it can be even more costly to a company. Of course, while explaining the best way to learn SCADA systems below, I will reference our own company’s approach. As our goal was to develop the best and remain very cost-effective.
To learn SCADA systems the best way: Consist of three phases.
1. A strong foundation in PLC SCADA basics
2. Vendor-specific SCADA training
3. More advanced SCADA topics and related courses
Like with most technical subjects, how well you do with continuing education, adaptation of that knowledge and how well you succeed in the workplace, is proportional to the quality of your foundational training like SCADA basics. So, I will expand on the criteria for the first phase, foundational SCADA basics.
Definition of SCADA
A set of equipment that provides an operator at a remote location with sufficient information to determine the status of a specific piece of equipment or an entire substation, and to take action on the equipment or network.
Exemple SCADA Graphics:
SCADA systems typically include signaling hardware (inputs and outputs), controllers, networks, human-machine interfaces (HMIs), communications equipment, and software. In general, the term SCADA refers to the entire central system. A central system typically monitors data from various sensors close by or off-site. An industrial measurement and control system consisting of a central host or master station , one or more field data acquisition and control units or remote controls (often called a remote station, remote terminal unit, or RTU) ); and a collection of standard and/or custom software for monitoring and controlling remote field data items. Contemporary SCADA systems primarily exhibit open-loop control characteristics and primarily use long-distance communications, although there are some closed-loop control elements.
SCADA-like systems are commonly used in factories, sewage treatment plants, etc. These are often referred to as distributed control systems (DCS). They have similar functions to SCADA systems, but the field data acquisition or control unit is usually located in a narrower area. Communication can take place over a local area network (LAN) and is usually reliable and high-speed.
DCS systems typically use extensive closed-loop control. SCADA systems, on the other hand, typically cover large geographic areas and rely on various communication systems that are often less reliable than LANs. In this case, closed-loop control is less than ideal.
SCADA generally belongs to the branch of instrumentation engineering. The term SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. SCADA systems are used to control and monitor chemical or transportation processes and can be found in factory environments such as power generation,water supply systems, gas and oil pipelines or any other distributed processes.
Where is SCADA used?
When you think of SCADA, you probably associate it with industrial automation. But you might be surprised how many different types of businesses can use SCADA systems to process data.
In this white paper, you will get a list of the six most common industrial processes that use SCADA equipment, such as: B. Oil and Gas Industry and Communication Infrastructure. Even these examples don't show you how rich and complex SCADA data can actually be. However, they do introduce you to SCADA systems and the types of places where they are used.
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