ATSCADA – SCADA SOFTWARE

With the rapid development of automation technology, many businesses have invested in SCADA systems  in the process of managing and operating factories, environment, transportation, etc. This not only improves efficiency. and system reliability but also minimizes production downtime. Contributes to process optimization and enhances competition in the industry.

What is SCADA?

SCADA  (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is a popular automation system in industries. The system has the function of controlling, monitoring and collecting data in the industrial field. SCADA includes both software and hardware devices, allowing businesses to:

• Control local/remote operational processes.
• Monitor, collect and process real-time operational data.
• Direct interaction with devices such as sensors, valves, pumps, motors through human-machine interface (HMI).
• Store events in the database.

SCADA systems play an important role in maintaining performance, processing data, optimizing processes… To make quick, timely decisions and minimize downtime during operations.

What are the components of a SCADA system?

Control and monitoring center:

Includes servers or computers connected to each other.

Including components such as HMI, PLC, technical stations, operating stations, high-end monitoring and control of the manufacturing plant.

Remote Terminal Unit (RTU):

Connect to sensors.

Receive and convert signals from sensors into digital signals.

Capable of sending and receiving command signals.

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC device):

Receive input signals and execute programs written by engineers. Give operating signals to other devices such as pumps, motors, inverters.

Telecommunication system:

Connect RTU/PLC devices to the control/monitoring center.

This includes signal transmission lines such as fiber optic cables, WAN circuits or wireless telecommunications systems such as satellite or radio.

Server collects data:

Use industrial protocols to connect software.

Allows clients to retrieve data from remote devices.

Human-Machine Interface (HMI Screen):

Displays data and information to the operator.

Allows operators to monitor and adjust the system, as well as collect data.

Other operating equipment:

Includes equipment such as pumps, fan motors, inverters and other devices controlled and monitored by SCADA systems.

These components work together to create a complete SCADA system. Able to monitor, control and collect data from industrial processes or systems. Depending on each need and actual operating process, the components of the SCADA system will vary. 

Learn about SCADA system structure

Executive structure level:

Includes sensors and other measuring devices such as temperature, pressure, water level, motors, valves and controllers.

The function of devices at this level is to measure parameters and directly control mechanical, electrical or other automation devices based on data collected from sensors and measuring devices.

Control level:

Includes devices such as RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) and PLC combined with HMI.

The function of this level is to receive signals from sensors and measuring devices, receive control commands from the control center, and directly control devices at the actuator level.

Monitoring level and data collection:

Includes host system and human-machine interface (HMI).

The function of this level is to monitor the operation of the entire system, display data and information from devices at the actuator level and control level. Send control commands to control-level devices, and collect system data for analysis and reporting.

Features of SCADA software

Consider  SCADA software  as the “brain” of the SCADA system. The software does all the control, monitoring and data collection. Vietnamese brand SCADA software ATSCADA is developed by ATSCADA Lab’s team of engineers. 

• The software is an automation development tool that runs on the Microsoft Windows platform.
• The software has libraries, rich graphics and many design tools.
• The software monitors and displays information from devices, sensors, and processes in real time on the user interface.
• Control devices and processes remotely through the user interface. Send control commands to devices such as pumps, valves, motors, and inverters.
• Displays operational status, including graphs, events, alarms and production reports.
• Collect data from sensors, measurement devices, and other equipment related to the process or system.
• Store collected data for analysis and reporting.
• Back up data periodically and automatically to ensure safety and easy recovery when needed.
• The software provides security features to protect data and systems from external threats.
• The software monitors specific events and conditions and generates alerts or notifications when critical events occur or thresholds are exceeded.
• These alerts can be displayed on the user interface or sent via email or text message.

Application of SCADA software

SCADA software applications are divided into three basic categories. Specifically: sequential logic control, adjustment control and monitoring, operation, data acquisition (SCADA). Here are some ways to implement these applications:

Each application is deployed using a separate system:

• Sequential logic control applications: Use PLCs to perform simple control tasks, monitor and execute logic sequences.
• Adjustable control applications: Use controllers to adjust processes and systems based on feedback from sensors.
• SCADA application: Use a separate SCADA system to monitor, operate, and collect data from processes and systems.

Using an integrated control system monitors:

• Each application has a separate function in the control system.
• Integrated control systems can use devices such as PLCs and controllers to perform both sequential logic control and regulation control functions.
• SCADA software is integrated into the system to provide the ability to monitor, operate, and collect data from processes and systems.

The second implementation is often favored in modern and large-scale production control systems. Because it offers high flexibility and the ability to integrate control and monitoring functions into a single system.

What are the benefits of SCADA software?

• Thanks to the ability to analyze production processes, businesses use this information to increase production efficiency as well as technical development.
• Enterprises limit and prevent errors in the production process. Contribute to improving product quality.
• By installing SCADA software, businesses will not need too many personnel to manage and monitor field devices or devices located in remote locations. At the same time, many costs are optimized for remote inspection and maintenance. 
• Open design software helps investors easily expand and change depending on production scale. Thanks to that, it helps eliminate significant wastage fees over time.

Note when choosing to buy SCADA software

When choosing SCADA software to manage and operate the system, there are some important notes that operators need to consider:

Update SCADA software:

Consider how fast technology is evolving and how long the software has been in use. Software also needs to be regularly updated and upgraded to ensure performance and security.

Find out about the supplier’s support services:

• Make sure the SCADA software provider has good support services and responds quickly during use.
• Check the supplier’s ability to expand and upgrade. To ensure the software meets new and evolving requirements in the future.

Note the data storage capabilities of SCADA software:

The system’s data storage needs and ensuring that the SCADA software is capable of storing the necessary amount of data.

Test the software’s flexibility in data management and retrieval to ensure that operators can easily access and analyze information.

Note compatibility with other devices/systems:

SCADA software is compatible with other devices and systems such as: PLC, RTU to be able to integrate operations effectively.

Check if the software supports common communication protocols and standards. Flexibility in connecting to devices from different manufacturers.

Reputable SCADA system supplier in Vietnam

ATPro Corp is a trusted partner in designing and supplying the leading SCADA systems on the market. With many years of experience in the industry and a focus on meeting customer needs. ATPro is committed to providing the best products and services.

We always focus on detailed and dedicated consulting. To ensure customers clearly understand the product and how it works. Visit each installation site to conduct surveys and provide the most optimal solution for customers. Our team of engineers are well-trained and have extensive experience in system design and installation. The construction process took place in the most professional and safe way.

We commit that 100% of the equipment we provide is genuine, of clear origin and fully certified. With preferential prices and the best support service, ATPro is confident to be a reliable partner for all your projects. Please contact ATPro today for the best advice and support!

Who needs to use SCADA system?

The following are some industrial fields that need to use SCADA systems

Manufacturing industry:  Factories and manufacturing plants in fields such as industrial automation, manufacturing, food processing, pharmaceuticals, automobiles, etc. And many other industries use SCADA to monitor Monitor and control production processes.

Electricity industry:  Transformer stations, thermal power plants, hydroelectric plants, and energy production facilities, etc.

Water treatment industry:  Water treatment plants, water supply and drainage,…

Oil and gas industry: Oil refineries, gas production facilities, and oil and gas exploitation facilities, etc.

Chemical industry:  Chemical manufacturing plants use SCADA to monitor and control chemical production processes.

Automobile industry and information technology : Automobile factories and electronic component factories,…

Traffic and transportation : Traffic and transportation system, including railways, highways, and seaports,…

Infrastructure and construction such as:  high-rise buildings, bridges, hydroelectric dams to monitor and control construction and operating processes.

What do you need to pay attention to when investing in SCADA?

Some important things that businesses should note before investing in a SCADA system:

First, it is necessary to determine the production scale and specific characteristics of the operating industry to choose a suitable system.

You should choose a SCADA system that is flexible and scalable. To meet the development and changes of the business in the future.

Consider the system’s security features. Ability to protect data and systems from security threats.

Consider good integration with existing devices and systems in the environment, such as PLCs, industrial computers, sensors, and communications networks.

You should install a hardware or system failure warning feature. This will help businesses quickly and promptly fix the problem.

Data parameters are intuitive and vivid, helping technicians easily monitor and work effectively.

Always prioritize choosing a SCADA system supplier that has a good, long-term warranty and after-sales policy and has cooperated with many other customers. This will help operating businesses determine their reputation when choosing a supplier.

Evaluate the cost of deploying and operating a SCADA system compared to the benefits it brings. Consider the return on investment (ROI) to ensure that the investment in the SCADA system is reasonable and profitable.

Hopefully the above article will help readers clearly understand the system, applications and characteristics of the SCADA system. To serve the selection of systems suitable for production needs. If you have any questions about equipment products or automation systems, do not hesitate to contact ATPro Corp for dedicated support.

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