1.2 SCADA - Application

SCADA software/system can be used in different geographical area, from national wide area to small standalone device monitoring.

From software view, it can be separated to 3 types applications: standalone distributed and networked.

Standalone means all software modules located in one computer even just in one program. This model is suitable for small SCADA project in small area.

Standalone System

Distributed system can be used in middle site or large project. In this model, application module is separated in different computer. But they are also installed in same LAN (Local Area Network), because SCADA system need real time response but today’s WAN (Wide Area Network) can not meet this real time requirement or is too expensive.

Distributed System

Networked system is the future direction for SCADA system. In this system, SCADA module can be separated in any place in World Wide Web. This system needs more quick and reliable network. And it also needs the international standard for SCADA system. But in this time, I think it is still a dream.

Networked System

1.1 SCADA - Definition

SCADA stands for Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition. Normally, it is used in several fields:

Industrial Monitoring and Control

Manufacturing Process

图1.1 SCADA framework

Main components are:

SCADA Host: This is the centre computer, it collect, process and stores all data. It can be just a program, or can be a program team.

HMI: This is the client end interface. It stands for Human Machine Interface.

Communication Network: This may be Ethernet, serial port or even wireless network

PLC / RTU: This is the communication equipment. RTU stands for Remote Telecommunication Unit. PLC stands for Programmable Logical Controller. Traditionally, PLC fulfill more control function, RTU can undertake more communication work and can work under more serious environment. But today this difference is dimming.

Device: This is the practical equipment which completes the industrial function, such as pump, valve, or switch.

There are data flows in two ways: Control and Data Acquisition.

0 SCADA - Preface

I want to summarize my past experience and technology, such as C++, SCADA, SDLC. So SCADA will be the first serial. This is first article from a serial. This serial will contain next contents:

SCADA

Definition

Application

Configuration SCADA Software

Framework

Abstraction

Big Names

My Projects & Tools

Electricity

Gas / Oil

So, let us begin.

Why 7117

In July, 2001, we spent 1 month to climb the Nyenchen Tanglha. Finally we reached one top of 4 peaks. Its height is 7117. I also recognized something about myself and some real meaning of life.
7117 is a important symbol for me and for my family.
Now we come to a new country and face to a totally different and difficult environment. I hope we can reach the new top also.
Why we want to climb the mountain? Nothing, just cause it is there.
Why we want to go around the world? Nothing, just cause it is there.