An enterprise SCADA system consolidates data from all equipment and sites (hereinafter, “assets”) within a portfolio onto a single platform (unlike a site-level SCADA system which only gathers data from an individual asset). In doing so, it provides asset owners and operators a centralized view to monitor their entire portfolio. This comprehensive overview enables owners to quickly assess the performance of all their assets while operators can address issues across multiple assets without individually accessing each associated system. This streamlined approach simplifies the monitoring and control of dispersed assets.
Hardware Options and Network Security
To run your enterprise SCADA system, you’ll need computing infrastructure (i.e., servers on-premises, in a data center, or in the cloud). You’ll also need firewalls to secure your network. Communication across the network can be secured using VPN tunnels or newer communication protocols such as MQTT. For more details on how MQTT can simplify your network architecture, see here and here.
Numerous governmental agencies in North America provide requirements and best practices (hereinafter “standards”) around securing industrial network communications including the National Security Agency (NSA) and North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). These standards should be adhered to by the IT team responsible for setting up the enterprise system. For more information about NSA best practices, see here.
Software Options and Communication Protocols
Common enterprise SCADA software platforms include AVEVA System Platform (fka. Wonderware), Inductive Automation Ignition and Trihedral VTScada. To collect data from a remote site or asset, these systems must connect to the site-level SCADA system. This connection is typically established using industrial protocols like MQTT, OPC UA, Modbus TCP/IP, or DNP3. While most SCADA systems include drivers to facilitate the use of these protocols, not all SCADA platforms are created equal on that front (for more information, contact us). In cases where the native drivers are inadequate, third-party drivers in the form of polling engines exist. For more information on the different options available on the market, see here.
Standardization
If you have multiple disparate enterprise SCADA systems, consolidation is worth considering as it can help simplify system administration, ensure the system stays secure, and minimize licensing and administration costs. For a case study on how we have helped customers in this regard, see here.
Conclusion
Enterprise SCADA systems can help you take your operations to the next level by centralizing the monitoring and control of your assets. Contact us now to learn how we can help you personalize a solution for your business!
Enterprise SCADA
If you have any questions or want to discuss your needs, please contact us.
CSE ICON is a professional services company focused on the design, development, and implementation of Operational Technology used in the processing and manufacturing industries. Our mission is to bring people and data together, helping our customers continuously improve and increase profitability.