SCADAHMIsystemer

SCADAHMIsystemer are industrial control systems that integrate Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) capabilities with Human-Machine Interface (HMI) functionality to monitor and control large-scale processes. They collect data from field devices such as sensors and actuators via remote terminal units (RTUs) or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and present it to operators through graphical interfaces. They also enable control commands, alarm handling, and data logging for performance analysis.

Key components include field devices, PLCs/RTUs, communication networks, central SCADA software, HMIs, historians, and reporting tools. Typical architectures are layered with field devices at the edge, a supervisory layer for data aggregation, and a presentation layer for operators. Common communication protocols include Modbus, DNP3, IEC 60870-5, and OPC UA, while interfaces may run on local HMIs or web-based clients.

SCADAHMIsystemer are used across utilities (electricity, water, gas), manufacturing, oil and gas, and building management. They enable real-time monitoring, process visualization, trend analysis, and event-driven alarms. They support predictive maintenance and operational optimization but require robust cybersecurity, including access control, network segmentation, encryption, patch management, and anomaly detection, due to the potential impact on safety and reliability.

Standards and best practices in the field include IEC 62443 for industrial cybersecurity and related guidelines. The field continues to evolve with IIoT, cloud-based SCADA, and edge computing, balancing data accessibility with security and reliability.