At Endeavor Engineering we have extensive experience with all aspects in the design and operation of SCADA systems. Our experience includes designing new SCADA system functionality or upgrading old systems to those based on newer technologies, such as networked communication.
SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems are described in the IEEE Std C37.1-1994 specifications as "a system operating with coded signals over communication channels so as to provide control of RTU [Remote Terminal Unit] equipment."
Historically, SCADA systems have been designed around a central master communicating with RTUs via dedicated serial circuits. This traditional design is somewhat monolithic in nature and affords limited accommodation to changing requirements.
Presently, SCADA system designs are undergoing a dramatic change toward more diverse and distributed functional elements interconnected through common network technologies. This distributed configuration is much more accommodating to change and can take advantage of many technologies available in the mainstream, such as the Internet and personal computers.
Another critical concern in present-day SCADA systems is security. Gone are the days when it could be assumed that SCADA systems are secure due to their unpublished proprietary technologies and relatively obscure designs. SCADA systems are used to control many of the world's critical infrastructures such as electricity, gas, water, sewer, and more. Due to the growing understanding of their importance to a healthy society and of their vulnerability to those with ill intentions, security is a critical consideration in any SCADA system designs.
If you have a need to get a jump start on a SCADA design, need a complete design solution, or would just like a second opinion, then contact us.