All about SCADA

SCADA is an acronym that stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. This concept has reference to management as well as procurement of data which can be used to develop the process management criteria. SCADA is a term that varies in usage and this depends on the location. The term has different usage in different countries. For instance, in North America it is a term that refers to a management system for distributed measurement and it operates on a large scale. In other parts of the world this term refers to basic functions which can work in different environments as well as in varying scales. The term usage might not be uniform, but many of the components remain the same.

How it works

For any SCADA process the control and collection of data is essential. Not only does the data have to be collected or acquired but managed as well. There is a supervisory component which is critical in making sense of the collected data as well as for the application of the same. With a sound system of SCADA it is possible to retrieve and use data quickly. It also related to different situations like quality control, market research as well as for business process like sales or for brochure development.

Components of SCADA

There are certain hardware components that need to be part of a system in order for the same to be classified as SCADA. Usually a database exists that has storage and search functions. With the help of a logic controller that is programmable one can assimilate as well as classify data that is collected. There needs to be a network that can house the software system as well as allow access through terminals as well as locally. A central repository has to be formed to allow monitoring the data functions as well as allowing a single point of control for the data. One can use the data remotely or access it in different ways. Usually a human and machine interface is necessary along with protocols for protection. That allows credentials to be verified by those who are trying to access the data.

Availability of free SCADA

Nowadays SCADA free software is also available which can help a basic system to be set up. In every instance there has to be a master system which will have software and servers. It will monitor the communication that happens with the field equipments. Data is gathered and HMI access provided through any SCADA free software.

Due to the need for having control over who can access data from a central system and the levels of security required, one can start off with a free SCADA software. It will allow monitoring of communication between field equipments and the master station. With the help of free SCADA it is possible to allow data to be accessed more quickly. Conclusions can be drawn up in a faster manner than in other kinds of network connections between different systems. For these reasons the software has much usage and demand today.

Hey myself Archer Finch. Even though I took extra care about my systems, but still it was more prone to hacking. With the introduction of the SCADA free systems, my system is now very much safe from all sorts of threats, as most of the free SCADA systems are connected to web based portals or products.