SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) are two commonly used technologies in industrial automation. Both SCADA and PLC systems are used to control and monitor industrial processes, but they have distinct differences and are used for different purposes. Understanding the differences between SCADA and PLC systems can help you make the best decision for your industrial automation needs.
PLC and SCADA Difference
One of the main differences between SCADA and PLC is the scope of their functionality. SCADA systems are designed for large-scale industrial processes, such as power plants, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing plants. These systems typically include a central computer or server that collects data from remote locations, and a human-machine interface (HMI) that allows operators to monitor and control the process from a central location. SCADA systems can also be used to control and monitor multiple processes at different locations.
PLCs, on the other hand, are used for local control of industrial processes, such as conveyor systems, assembly lines, and machine tools. PLCs are smaller and more compact than SCADA systems, and they can be easily integrated into existing industrial processes. PLCs are also more affordable than SCADA systems, and they can be easily programmed to control and monitor specific processes.
Another difference between SCADA and PLC is the level of control they provide. SCADA systems provide supervisory control, which means they allow operators to monitor and control processes from a central location. PLCs, on the other hand, provide local control, which means they control and monitor processes directly at the site where the PLC is located.
In terms of cost, PLCs are generally more affordable than SCADA systems. PLCs are smaller and more compact, which makes them less expensive to purchase and maintain. SCADA systems are typically more expensive due to their larger size and more complex functionality.
When it comes to security, SCADA systems have more security features built-in, such as encryption and authentication, while PLCs are less secure and more vulnerable to cyber-attacks. SCADA systems have higher security standards to protect the process and data from unauthorized access.
Another difference between SCADA and PLC is their flexibility. SCADA systems can be easily customized to meet specific process requirements, while PLCs are generally more limited in their flexibility. PLCs are designed to control and monitor specific processes, whereas SCADA systems can be configured to control and monitor a wide range of processes.
In terms of data collection and analysis, SCADA systems are better suited for collecting and analysing large amounts of data from multiple sources. PLCs are better suited for collecting and analysing data from a specific process.
These are just a few examples of PLC brands available on the market. There are also many smaller, niche manufacturers that specialize in specific types of PLCs or industries. It’s important to research and compare different brands and models to find the one that best meets the specific needs of your industrial process.
There are many different brands of PLCs available on the market, some of the most popular include:
SCADA Software’s in Market
There are many different SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) software available on the market, some of the most popular include:
Siemens SIMATIC WinCC
Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk View
Schneider Electric Wonderware
GE Intelligent Platforms Proficy
ABB IndustrialIT
Iconics Genesis64
DNP3 Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
Inductive Automation Ignition
OSIsoft PI System
Honeywell Experion
AVEVA InTouch
Yokogawa Exaquantum
Advantech WebAccess
Schneider Electric ClearSCADA
Moxa iView
These are just a few examples of SCADA software available on the market, there are many others. It’s important to research and compare different software to find the one that best meets the specific needs of your industrial process and is compatible with your hardware.
In conclusion, SCADA and PLC are two commonly used technologies in industrial automation, but they are used for different purposes. SCADA systems are used for remote monitoring and control of large-scale industrial processes, whereas PLCs are used for local control of smaller, localized processes. While both technologies have their own strengths and weaknesses, the choice of which one to use will depend on the specific needs of the industrial process. It’s important to consider factors such as cost, security, flexibility, and data collection and analysis when choosing between SCADA and PLC.
