SCADA Explained: The FAQ

We’re often asked about SCADA, its scope, features, and sometimes even the basics: what exactly is it? If you’ve been wondering the same, you’re not alone.

This article breaks SCADA down into clear, simple terms.

What does SCADA mean?

SCADA stands for Supervisory Control And Data Acquisition.

In practical terms, it’s a software system used to monitor, control, and display processes, machines, or entire plants.

Think of SCADA as the central brain of your operations: it collects data from your equipment, analyzes it in real time, and enables remote control when needed. It’s more than just a monitoring tool, SCADA is your operational dashboard that brings your industrial data to life.

What are the key components of a SCADA system?

A SCADA system is built on four essential pillars:

• The Database – the heart that stores all the data
• HMI (Human-Machine Interface) – the face of the system, what your operators interact with
• The Processing Software – the brain that analyzes and interprets data
• The Network Interface – the nervous system that connects all equipment

Each component plays a critical role in ensuring the SCADA system functions efficiently and reliably.

What machines connect to SCADA, and how?

Physically, SCADA systems typically connect to a fieldbus, which links them to sensors and actuators such as PLCs, motors, and more.

On the protocol side, several standards are used, with the most common being:

• Modbus
• Profibus
• Profinet
• OPC UA

These protocols act like languages, allowing SCADA to “talk” to a wide range of industrial equipment, regardless of brand or function.

Can SCADA systems be customized?

Absolutely. Most SCADA platforms are highly configurable: you can adjust views, set alarms, add or remove devices, and more.

Think of SCADA like an ERP for operations—a professional-grade platform with:

• Proven reliability
• Intuitive interfaces
• Granular user access control

That said, like any enterprise software, SCADA has its limits, particularly when it comes to adding features not originally supported by the vendor.

Is SCADA only used in industrial environments?

Not at all. Any sector that involves process control can benefit from SCADA. For example, smart buildings now use SCADA technologies to optimize energy consumption.

That said, industry remains the primary user, as SCADA is especially well-suited for high-stakes, production-critical environments.

Who are the major SCADA vendors?

The leading SCADA platforms are offered by the biggest players in industrial automation:

• Siemens – Simatic
• Schneider Electric – EcoStruxure
• Rockwell Automation – FactoryTalk

These solutions are often optimized for the manufacturer’s own hardware, which can be an advantage if you already use their ecosystem.

There are also vendor-independent SCADA platforms, such as:

• Codra – Panorama
• Copa-Data – Zenon
• Inductive Automation – Ignition

These tend to offer greater flexibility in multi-vendor environments.

How do you start a SCADA project?

As with any tech project, a solid method is key. Here are the main steps:

• Define your needs – What part of the process will be monitored? List machines, PLCs, sensors, etc.
• Identify key data points – Each point refers to a data source, such as a temperature sensor.
• Set data acquisition frequency – Every second, minute, hour, etc.
• Define the interface (HMI) – Will it be a video wall, operator station, mobile device?
• Establish a budget – Costs can vary widely depending on the solution.

Need help? Feel free to reach out, our team is here to guide you through every step.

What’s the difference between SCADA and IIoT?

A very common question! (In fact, we’ve written a full blog post on this.)

In short, SCADA is the centralized brain of your operations, while IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) is a more distributed, connected approach. The two are complementary, not competing.

What’s the future of SCADA?

SCADA has evolved. New technologies like MQTT and cloud databases have introduced ways to connect sensors directly to cloud platforms. Tools like Grafana have changed how we visualize and analyze data.

These alternatives are great for lightweight or budget-limited use cases. But when it comes to complex, high-stakes processes—think petrochemical plants—companies still turn to robust, real-time SCADA systems.

And SCADA vendors haven’t stood still. They’ve integrated modern features to stay on the cutting edge.

In conclusion
SCADA remains a cornerstone of industrial control. Its ability to provide real-time, reliable, and intuitive information makes it an essential tool—not just today, but for years to come.

Looking to implement or optimize a SCADA system?

Download our free guide:

The SCADA systems guide