Editing SCADA (section)

{{Short description|Control system architecture for supervision of machines and processes}}
{{Manufacturing}}

'''SCADA''' (an acronym for '''supervisory control and data acquisition''') is a [[control system]] architecture comprising [[computer]]s, networked [[data communication]]s and [[graphical user interface]]s for [[high-level]] supervision of machines and processes. It also covers sensors and other devices, such as [[programmable logic controller]]s, also known as a DCS (Distributed Control System), which interface with process plant or machinery.

The operator interfaces, which enable monitoring and the issuing of process commands, such as controller [[Setpoint (control system)|setpoint]] changes, are handled through the SCADA computer system. The subordinated operations, e.g. the real-time control logic or controller calculations, are performed by networked modules connected to the field [[sensor]]s and [[actuators]].

The SCADA concept was developed to be a universal means of remote-access to a variety of local control modules, which could be from different manufacturers and allowing access through standard automation [[List of automation protocols|protocols]]. In practice, large SCADA systems have grown to become similar to [[distributed control system]]s in function, while using multiple means of interfacing with the plant. They can control large-scale processes spanning multiple sites, and work over large distances. It is one of the most commonly-used types of [[industrial control system]]s.