Ad
related to: scada vs dcs
Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
A distributed control system (DCS) is a computerized control system for a process or plant usually with many control loops, in which autonomous controllers are distributed throughout the system, but there is no central operator supervisory control. This is in contrast to systems that use centralized controllers; either discrete controllers ...
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. In larger SCADA systems, the master station may include several HMIs hosted on client computers, multiple servers for data acquisition, distributed software applications, and disaster recovery sites.
Networking allows the use of local or remote SCADA operator interfaces, and enables the cascading and interlocking of controllers. However, as the number of control loops increase for a system design there is a point where the use of a programmable logic controller (PLC) or distributed control system (DCS) is more manageable or cost-effective.
Determinacy involves assuring that each device is guaranteed access to the network, and in many cases mechanisms to allow priority information (such as alarms) through the system. Compatibility allows SCADA and Distributed Control Systems (DCS) from various manufacturers to communicate with control and measurement equipment from others.
Process controls (basic as well as advanced) are implemented within the process control system, which may mean a distributed control system (DCS), programmable logic controller (PLC), and/or a supervisory control computer. DCSs and PLCs are typically industrially hardened and fault-tolerant.
Consolidation of data from different sources (Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Laboratory, Distributed Control System (DCS)...) Integration of off-line data (laboratory, calculations, future load profiles) Access via the company-wide intranet also from offices. Via Web (Thin client) or Tcp / Ip (Fat client) Enriching / refining raw data
The distinction between SCADA and DCS is somewhat accurate but incomplete. Yes, SCADA systems coordinate control devices such as PLCs and RTUs or specialized primary control devices - but in many ways so do DCSs. SCADA systems are also usually found in control applications that are geographically distributed.
OPC servers provide a method for different software packages (as long as it is an OPC client) to access data from a process control device, such as a programmable logic controller (PLC) or distributed control system (DCS). Traditionally, any time a package needed access to data from a device, a custom interface or driver had to be written.
Ad
related to: scada vs dcs