CONTROL SYSTEMS

Control System Types

PLC     Programmable Logic Controller    

We typically use PLCs in small batch and continuous control applications, PLCs are designed to quickly process inputs and outputs for high speed motion control systems but can also be used with slower temperature monitoring systems. They can be interconnected in networks and can have sophisticated HMI and ALARM configurations.

To request a free PLC configuration document, click here.

 DCS     Distributed Control System    

When there is a need to control a large plant or multiple processes from a central control room area, a DCS is usually the control system choice. It uses a distributed architecture enabling localized control that is networked together into a uniform user interface.

 RTU     Remote Terminal Unit        

We use RTU’s to control a system locally while retaining the remote access of supervisory information relayed back to a larger networked system.

SCADA     (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)

This type of system is usually employed when supervisory setpoints, alarming and historical information is needed at the operator level. The actual process is still controlled by the local PLC or DCS controller. It is considered to be a layer on top of the actual control system.

Click on images below to enlarge. Pop ups should be enabled.

Inter-Device Communication Protocols

MODBUS    Modicon Bus Protocol   

Modbus is a popular protocol for industrial control systems (ICS). It provides easy, raw access to the control system without requiring any authentication.

 Fieldbus   

Is the name of a family of industrial computer network protocols used for real-time distributed control, standardized as IEC 61158.

 AB DH and DH+    Allen Bradley Data Highway and Data Highway Plus       

The Data Highway Plus (DH+) network is a local area network designed by Rockwell International to support remote programming and messaging between computers and PLC controllers for factory-floor applications.

Hart  (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer Protocol)

The HART Communications Protocol is an early implementation of Fieldbus, a digital industrial automation protocol. Its most notable advantage is that it can communicate over legacy wiring.

 DNP3   (Distributed Network Protocol)

DNP3  is a set of communications protocols used between components in process automation systems. Its main use is in utilities such as electric and water companies.

 Ethernet/IP    (Ethernet / Internet Protocol)

 Is an industrial network protocol that adapts the Common Industrial Protocol to standard Ethernet. EtherNet/IP is one of the leading industrial protocols in the United States and is widely used in a range industries including factory, hybrid and process.

 IEC 60870-5-104

 IEC 60870 part 5 is one of the IEC 60870 set of standards which define systems used for SCADA in electrical engineering and power system automation applications.

PROFIBUS

 PROFIBUS is a smart, fieldbus technology. Devices on the system connect to a central line. These devices then communicate information between each other by sharing the main bus.