Evolution of SCADA systems.
The four types of SCADA systems
There are different types of systems that can be considered
as SCADA architectures.
First
generation: monolithic SCADA systems
Previously, manufacturers have used minicomputers to
optimize their processes and equipment.
At the time, monolithic SCADA systems were very popular and
they did not use common network services. The systems were therefore
independent, that is, one computer could not connect to other systems. The
remote sites were connected through a backup mainframe system.
This ensured the redundancy of the first generation SCADA
system. The monolithic concept was mainly used in the event of failure of the
primary mainframe system. Use of this older form of SCADA system was limited to
monitoring system sensors as well as signaling any operation if programmed
alarm levels were exceeded.
Second generation: distributed SCADA systems
For this second generation of SCADA systems, the sharing of
control functions is distributed among several systems connected to each other
via a local area network (LAN). They were therefore called
distributed SCADA systems.
Individual stations were used to share real-time
information, process orders and perform monitoring tasks to raise alarm levels
in the event of problems. What differentiates them from older systems is the
reduced cost and size of the station.
Yet network protocols were not standardized, and the
security of installations could only be determined by very few people other
than developers. In other words, the security of the second generation SCADA
installation has been ignored.
Third generation: networked SCADA systems
Current SCADA systems are now networked and can communicate
over a Wide Area Network (WAN) over data lines or by telephone.
These systems typically use Ethernet or fiber optic
connections to transmit data between nodes. They also use Programmable Logic
Controllers (PLCs) to monitor or adjust routine signaling systems for critical
decisions.
While the first and second generation SCADA systems were
limited to single networks or buildings, the third generation SCADA uses the
Internet, often implying a security concern.
Fourth generation: SCADA 4.0 systems based on the Internet of Things (IoT)
The emergence of a fourth generation of SCADA systems has
drastically reduced the cost of infrastructure through the adoption of IoT
technology and cloud computing.
System integration and maintenance is therefore very easy
compared to previous systems. The latest technological advancements in SCADA
systems now allow real-time status reporting, the use of more complex
control algorithms, and increased security of sensitive information in large
enterprises.
In addition, these systems can be implemented on traditional
PLCs.
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