SCADA
Science & Engineering abbreviation · Engineering
| Stands for | Supervisory control and data acquisition |
|---|---|
| Categories | Science & Engineering |
SCADA stands for Supervisory control and data acquisition, an engineering abbreviation.
Control system architecture that monitors and controls equipment spread over large areas, such as pipelines, power grids, water and wastewater networks and railways. SCADA gathers data from field devices, displays it to operators in control rooms and sends commands back.
Example: The operator used SCADA to open a valve at the pumping station 40 kilometers away.
Usage notes
Typical SCADA systems combine field controllers (PLCs or remote terminal units), communication networks and central servers with operator screens. Because many were designed before internet threats, cybersecurity is a serious concern; a 2015 cyberattack on Ukrainian utilities used SCADA access to cut power to about 225,000 customers. Pronounced "SKAY-da."
Related abbreviations
More engineering abbreviations
- PLM – Product lifecycle management
- RC – Reinforced concrete
- RCA – Root cause analysis
- RFI – Request for information
- RTU – Rooftop unit
- SAT – Site acceptance test
- SEER – Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio
- SIL – Safety integrity level
- SMAW – Shielded metal arc welding
- SPC – Statistical process control
- SS – Stainless steel
- TIG – Tungsten inert gas (welding)