SCADA & Telemetry

What is SCADA?

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, or SCADA, is a hardware and software system used to monitor and automate the control of industrial processes and machines. For many manufacturers and municipalities, SCADA systems are a critical component of the overall production process and allow for real-time data analytics.

SCADA systems can be used in many industries, but they are most popular in treatment plants to provide the ability to automate processes and reduce costs. It is difficult to achieve water/wastewater system analysis, planning, oversight and coordination without using a SCADA monitoring system. Older water/wastewater systems are inefficient, meaning they require more staff to operate and more time spent monitoring, just to stay operational.

Plant operators can instantly access the critical information they require after installing a SCADA system. The data from the treatment plant is much more accurate and current because it uses digital monitoring.

Treatment plants can use this information to detect system imbalances, leaks and overflows. The facility’s instrumentation will transmit data to the terminal units. After that, the data will be transmitted to the plant operators. Plant operators can quickly access this information to identify problems early, reducing downtime.

At PRIMEX we design, program, manufacture and install open-architecture SCADA systems. Our Engineering Team has experience across all phases of developing and implementing a successful SCADA project. Our portfolio of services includes:

• User and functional requirements development
• Integration to business systems
• External system and database integration
• Report Generation
• Alarm Notification
• RTU Integration
• Telemetry
• Cybersecurity
• Web-based architecture
• Startup & Commissioning
• Field Service – Troubleshooting

SCADA Software Platforms

We have implemented projects with all of the major SCADA software providers and can work with you to choose the correct platform to meet your needs.

Need to Replace or Upgrade Your SCADA System?

Over time, a SCADA system can become outdated and unsupported, lack functionality and features, present security risks, and be difficult to scale. These are the four reasons why you should upgrade your SCADA system:

• System Compatibility & Support – If your SCADA system is outdated and no longer supported by the manufacturer, it may be incompatible with modern controls hardware. Getting replacement parts or the necessary system updates may be difficult, which can lead to extended downtimes during equipment failures and a higher risk for cyber-attacks.

• Enhanced Functionality – Older SCADA systems may not have the same level of functionality and may include obsolete features as compared to a new SCADA system (example: improved graphics that provide better usability and access to additional data). Additionally, a new SCADA system will often have increased connectivity and allow for integration with complementary programs, such as an ERP system, CRM, SQL databases and modern HMI software.

• Improve System Security – Outdated SCADA systems are vulnerable to data invasions, and likely can’t comply with newer security standards such as encryption and two-step authentication. Upgrading to a modern SCADA system will allow you to take advantage of the new security capabilities.
• Scalability and Future Proofing – Modern SCADA systems can be developed using object-oriented programming. This programming technique entails a template-based system design with easily manageable blocks of code representing various objects or equipment. New code blocks can be added quickly and inexpensively, allowing your SCADA system to grow with you.

Replacing a SCADA system from the ground up is costly and can be an overwhelming undertaking. Retrofitting is often the better choice, but this is a very specialized process. PRIMEX is an experienced integrator who understands what it takes to upgrade an existing SCADA system. We offer multiple approaches and can tailor various elements to create a customized solution that meets your specific business requirements.

Think you might be ready for a SCADA upgrade?

Our team of expert control system engineers can help you assess the capabilities of your existing SCADA system against your current and future operational goals, and if it’s the right time for an upgrade. To learn more about SCADA Systems and our other services, please CONTÁCTENOS.