The acronym SCADA, means Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition. SCADA systems have provided the means for controlling and monitoring remote devices for several decades.

Power transmission and distribution systems use SCADA to monitor and control the delivery of power from the generation sites to your home. Natural Gas and product pipeline systems are controlled by SCADA. Water and wastewater systems in your area may use SCADA.

SCADA systems use a Master Station or Master Terminal Unit to control any number of RTU's (Remote Terminal Units). The MTU is located at a control center which is normally operated by dispatchers. These operators monitor the current status of the entire system using CRT's Some systems have large Map Boards with visual indicators (Lamps or LEDS) that are driven by the MTU. In large operations the Map Board may be huge wrapping around the entire control center. The dispatchers use the system to make changes in the operating status of the system and if necessary dispatch personnel to correct problems or adjust system operating parameters.

RTU's are placed at remote locations to monitor analog, status, and accumulator points. Here are some example points: