SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) - definition
SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) - definition
SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is an integrated information and Automation system for supervising, controlling and collecting data from distributed technological processes in real time. It is used in a wide range of industrial infrastructures, including power generation, water supply, chemical industry, transport systems, refineries and building automation. The purpose of SCADA is to enable operators to remotely control processes, ensure business continuity and support operational and strategic decision-making.
The SCADA system architecture includes a hardware and software layer. At the physical level, the system communicates with field devices - such as PLC Drivers, RTU, sensors and actuators - using standard data transmission protocols (e.g. Modbus, DNP3, IEC 60870-5, OPC). The software layer enables process visualisation, data collection and archiving, alarm handling, trend analysis and report generation. The SCADA system's graphical interface allows operators to interact with the process through control panels, synoptics and process diagrams.
SCADA systems are designed for real-time operation, with an emphasis on reliability, safety and fault tolerance. They can operate locally or in a distributed structure, with a central supervisory server and multiple operator stations. Today's SCADA solutions often integrate analytical, diagnostic and predictive functions, supporting infrastructure lifecycle management and the implementation of Industry 4.0 concepts. Also of increasing importance is cyber security, due to the increasing connectivity of systems with external networks and their critical importance for the safe operation of industrial and municipal facilities.
Transfer Multisort Elektronik (TME) is one of the world’s largest global distributors of electronic components, electrotechnical parts, workshop equipment, and industrial automation. The catalog includes over 1,500,000 products from 1,300 leading manufacturers. TME’s modern logistics centers in Łódź and Rzgów (Poland), with a combined area of over 40,000 m², ship nearly 6,000 packages daily to customers in more than 150 countries.
TME also invests in the development of knowledge and skills of young engineers and electronics enthusiasts through the TME Education project, and supports the tech community by organizing the TechMasterEvent series, promoting innovation and experience exchange.
