1MRS751852-MUM
Issued:
15.03.2002
Version:
A
Program revision: 8.4.4
We reserve the right to change data without prior notice.
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
Product Guide
MicroSCADA
Notice 1
The information in this document is subject to change without notice and should not
be construed as a commitment by ABB. ABB assumes no responsibility for any error
that may occur in this document.
Notice 2
This document complies with the program revision 8.4.4.
Notice 3
Additional information such as Release Notes and Last Minute Remarks can be
found on the program distribution media.
Trademarks
Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Windows NT is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
L
ON
W
ORKS
is a registered trademark of Echelon Corporation.
Other brand or product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.
All Microsoft products referenced in this document are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.
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Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
MicroSCADA
Product Guide
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MicroSCADA
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
Product Guide
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Contents
Product Guide
Contents:
1. Introduction ...............................................................................1
2. MicroSCADA technology ..........................................................3
2.1. General .........................................................................................3
2.2. MicroSCADA technology products ................................................3
2.3. MicroSCADA system description ..................................................5
2.3.1. Hierarchical and flat systems .............................................6
2.3.2. Single-user and multi-user systems ...................................6
2.3.3. Single and redundant systems ...........................................7
3. SYS 500 system server .............................................................9
3.1. General .........................................................................................9
3.2. Base system ................................................................................10
3.3. Applications .................................................................................11
3.4. Databases ...................................................................................11
3.4.1. Process database ............................................................11
3.4.2. History database ..............................................................13
3.4.3. Report database ..............................................................14
3.5. Programming with SCIL ..............................................................14
3.5.1. Objects .............................................................................15
3.5.1.1. User interface objects ........................................15
3.5.1.2. Application objects .............................................15
3.5.1.3. System objects ...................................................16
3.5.2. Attributes ..........................................................................17
3.5.3. Visual SCIL ......................................................................18
3.5.4. Visual SCIL objects ..........................................................18
3.6. Graphical user interface ..............................................................18
3.6.1. Pictures ............................................................................19
3.7.1. System configuration tools ...............................................21
3.7.2. Application object tools ....................................................21
3.7.3. User interface tools ..........................................................22
3.7.4. Accessory tools ................................................................23
3.8. Peripheral equipment ..................................................................24
4. Communication systems ........................................................25
4.1.1. Upper level communication ..............................................26
4.1.2. Process communication ...................................................26
4.1.3. Network topologies ..........................................................27
4.2. COM 500 communication server .................................................28
4.3. Communication front-ends ..........................................................30
4.4. NET unit ......................................................................................32
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Product Guide
4.5. Communication system components .......................................... 33
4.5.1. Communication software ................................................. 33
4.5.2. Networks .......................................................................... 34
4.5.3. Communication hardware ................................................ 35
4.6. Process units .............................................................................. 36
5. LIB 5xx application libraries .................................................. 37
5.1. Application engineering .............................................................. 37
5.2. Application libraries ..................................................................... 38
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1. Introduction
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
Product Guide
1
1. Introduction
This manual belongs to the MicroSCADA technology 8.4.4 manuals.
This manual should be read when you start working with MicroSCADA for the first
time. The content of the manual is the basis for the rest of the manuals, as it gives
introduction to MicroSCADA technology.
In revision 8.4.4 MicroSCADA manuals are divided into the following three
categories:
• MicroSCADA technology manuals. These manuals provide information common
to all MicroSCADA products.
• SYS 500 manuals. These manuals provide information related to SYS 500 system
server.
• COM 500 manuals. These manuals provide information related to COM 500
communication server.
Using this manual
This manual introduces MicroSCADA, its components and their functions. It
contains general information related to the MicroSCADA system, technology,
workstations, applications and graphical user interface.
Chapters
The manual contains the following chapters:
• Introduction gives information about the intended use of this manual.
• MicroSCADA Technology contains an overview of the MicroSCADA
Technology products and system types.
• SYS 500 System Server describes the SYS 500 system server, its components
and their features.
• Communication Systems describes the functionality of a NET unit. COM 500
and communication front-ends are also described.
• LIB 5XX Application Libraries contains an overview of the system engineering
process.
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2. MicroSCADA
technology
The needs for better information and control of electric utility power networks are
increasing. To meet these needs, MicroSCADA Technology provides solutions that
lead into greater efficiency, reliability and cost effectiveness.
2.1.
General
MicroSCADA is a microcomputer-based, programmable and distributed
supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system. Microcomputer-based
means that MicroSCADA runs on every commercially available PC-computer.
MicroSCADA is programmable because all application programs and most system
configuration programs are built with SCIL (Supervisory Control Implementation
Language). More information on SCIL is found in Section 3.5.1.
The system can be seen as a network where the control system can communicate
with the widely distributed process through a communication system.
The common platform technology, which MicroSCADA is based on, is used for
building applications and systems. SYS 500, COM 500 and LIB 510 are examples
of MicroSCADA Technology products.
MicroSCADA-based electrical application areas are power transmission and
distribution. It is also well suited for other process areas. District heating, water
purification and distribution, waste water treatment, oil and gas distribution can be
mentioned as non-electrical application areas.
The main MicroSCADA-based application systems are Substation Automation
Systems for power transmission and distribution substations. There can also be
Network Control and Distribution Management Systems for power distribution.
Therefore, this manual focuses on that area.
2.2.
MicroSCADA technology products
Product hierarchy
The MicroSCADA Technology product hierarchy is shown in Figure 2.2.-1
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MicroSCADA Technology products are divided into two product families: system
products and application libraries. System products are the core components of the
system. Different LIB packages are application libraries (described in Chapter 5).
Different product families can be used together. Some products require other
MicroSCADA products, some can be used alone (e.g. COM 500 and SYS 500).
System products
A system product, consisting of SYS 500 System Server, communication system
and operator workstation, contains the necessary hardware and software for running
applications and handling communication between the components in the system.
SYS 500 is described in Chapter 3 and communication systems are described in
Chapter 4.
Operator workstation
An operator workstation is a computer that is used for controlling and supervising
the process (it shows pictures and dialogs). It can be integrated into SYS 500 System
Server, or reside in a separate computer that is connected to a base system computer.
A laptop computer can also serve as a workstation. It is then connected to the control
system over a dial-up line. The workstation computer can also be connected to a
local area network (LAN) with a modem.
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The computer that serves as an operator workstation can also be used for other
purposes than as an operator workstation.
An operator workstation consists of a computer, an operating system, workstation
programs, HSI (Human System Interface) and printers.The MicroSCADA HSI
consists of a display, keyboard and mouse.
Workstation programs
Workstation programs are a set of programs that are used for process supervision
and control. It enables the use of a MicroSCADA Notification Window, which
shows system messages, and MicroSCADA Monitor Starter. The MicroSCADA
Monitor Starter opens MicroSCADA monitors.
MicroSCADA monitors
A MicroSCADA monitor is used to supervise and control a MicroSCADA
application on screen. It enables interaction between the operator and the base
system computer. The monitor may be of Visual SCIL or X-monitor type.
MicroSCADA monitors are always connected to SYS 500. The pictures and dialogs
displayed on a screen of another computer are always stored in the SYS 500 System
Server. The monitor may run remotely on an operator workstation and office
computer via LAN, or remotely on a portable workstation via a dial-up modem or a
GSM mobile phone connection.
Basic functionalities of SYS 500 System Server, e.g. process communication and
reporting, do not require that MicroSCADA monitors are open. The application runs
without them.
2.3.
MicroSCADA system description
A MicroSCADA system is a system where MicroSCADA Technology products are
used. It can contain one or more computers that are connected to each other in order
to exchange data or pictures.
There are several ways to build a MicroSCADA system. It might contain one or
several base systems, NET units, operator workstations, process units and peripheral
equipment. Different commonly used system configurations are described here. An
example system overview is shown in Figure 2.3.-1.
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2.3.1.
Hierarchical and flat systems
The difference between a hierarchical and a flat system is that a hierarchical system
has several layers of system components, while a flat system has only one. The
hierarchical system contains a multi-user system or a redundant system that is
connected to one or more single-user systems through a serial line. A flat system
could be, for example, a single-user system and a SYS 500 connected to the process
units.
2.3.2.
Single-user and multi-user systems
Both the single-user system and the multi-user system contains SYS 500. The
single-user system has one local MicroSCADA monitor and NET unit. A modem
may be used for communication with process units. In a multi-user system one or
several operator workstations are connected to SYS 500 (usually through LAN). A
communication front-end may also be connected to the system. The communication
front-end increases the number of communication lines.
The NET unit that is connected to the single-user system increases the amount of
available protocols and COM ports. It also eases the load of the base system
computer.
More information on SYS 500 can be found in Chapter 3.
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2.3.3.
Integrated and distributed systems
Both the integrated and the distributed systems contain SYS 500 with all its
components. The system components (a communication system and a workstation)
can be optionally integrated to it in an integrated system. The distributed system
contains, in addition to SYS 500, a communication frontend or an operator
workstation.
2.3.4.
Single and redundant systems
A single system is a MicroSCADA system that contains only one unit of each
system component, while a redundant system can contain two base systems, and/or
two NET units and/or two LAN connections dedicated for the same purpose. The
idea with a redundant system is to make the system more safe when doubling some
of its components. In most systems, the component availability is very important.
This means that if one of the system components fails, the other one takes over the
specific functions immediately after it has recognised a break-down in the other base
system.
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3.
SYS 500 system server
About this chapter
This chapter gives an introduction to the SYS 500 system server and its components.
3.1.
General
The SYS 500 system server is a PC based programmable automation system. The
computer where SYS 500 runs is called the SYS 500 computer. This computer may
be called the main computer. You may use SYS 500 with or without a HSI, which
in this case could be a monitor (see Figure 3.1.-1).
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The SYS 500 system server runs the operating system Windows NT and
MicroSCADA software. SYS 500 contains the necessary hardware and software
needed for communication between the different units. The computer that functions
as the SYS 500 system server can be considered as the main computer. The system
server contains data acquisition, supervising and controlling functions.
Features
Operational features of the system server:
• Control and supervision of the process (based on pictures, dialogs, windows and
function keys, and event driven or cyclical application programs).
• Alarm and event handling.
• Flexible reporting system based on advanced calculations.
• Access to all process and system data according to the user rights.
• Support for multiple applications.
• Possibility to on-line documentation and data entry.
• Multi-user support.
• Printouts.
• Data exchange through common interfaces.
Components
The software in the SYS 500 system server is:
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• Windows NT
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• Base system software
• Base tools
• Application software
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system
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500 (see Figure 3.1.-2).
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3.2.
Base system
The base system collects all process related data, via the NET communication units,
from the process units and stores the data in the process database. The collected
information is then distributed for e.g. HSI-displays, archiving, calculations,
printouts and for further processing and distribution in other systems. In a
corresponding way, control commands are sent from the process database to the
process units. The control commands can come from e.g. an operator through the
HSI, an automatic function or some other system. The process database reflects the
real time picture of the process.
The base system runs the application (See Figure 3.2.-1). The base system
functionality is always the same, no matter how the application is used. The base
system services are configured and accessed by SCIL. For more details on SCIL,
please see Section 3.5.1.
1. Windows NT is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
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The base system also offers an application-programming interface for attaching
functions as separate programs.
3.3.
Applications
The customer needs and operational functions in the process define together what
the application will be like. This means that the application software specifies the
user interface and the SYS 500 system server functionality.
The application software consists of:
• pictures and dialogs
• process-, history- and report databases
• control programs
• configuration files etc.
Application engineering means adjusting MicroSCADA so that it suits a specific
application. Application engineering can be performed by using a standard
application library, LIB 500, or programming SCIL.
The application functions are all placed on an application software layer. This layer
can be changed without affecting the base system, which executes the application.
Several applications can be run at the same time, because each application has an
own process to supervise and control. The application may either have own
connections to process units or share the connections with other applications.
Different applications may communicate with each other.
3.4.
Databases
Each application contains a process database, a history database and a report
database. The process database is used for process supervision, the report database
for data storage, calculations, automatic activation and so on. The history database
is used as a base for the event list. These three databases are described in detail in
the following sections.
3.4.1.
Process database
The process database contains application objects. It registers incoming and
outgoing process data signals. It is a real-time database containing process objects,
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scales and free type objects. Process communication from and to the base system
passes through the process objects. The information flow is shown in Figure 3.4.1.-
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Event
An event is an indication that something has happened in the system. Typical events
are changes of object values, alarms or warnings, or alarm definitions. Events can
cause printouts, automatic control operations, event lists and report database
registrations.
The event list displays events that have occured in the system. It also informs about
activities by other users, operations of objects, acknowledging alarms, editing of
limit values and so on. With LIB 500 you can define own filters with the event list
tool, depending on what kind of information you want in the event list. One or
several criteria may be used to filter out unwanted information from the event list.
Alarm
Alarms are generated when something special has occured in the process. (An alarm
is prioritised in the event list.) Alarms can cause audio-visual alarms, changes in the
station picture, alarm pictures, alarm printouts and alarm lists. Information about
alarming objects is stored in the alarm buffer. The information remains in the buffer
until the reason for the alarm disappears or until the alarm is acknowledged.
The alarm list shows all the alarms that appear in the system alarm buffer. The alarm
list is divided into two different lists: one with persisting (active) alarms and one
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with fleeting (inactive) alarms. An alarm is usually presented with a text that
explains the reason of the alarm. The information flow is shown in Figure 3.4.1.-2.
Alarms and events can be generated in three different ways:
• Process events can generate alarms. The state of the process is evaluated in the
base system, according to the limits that have been set. For example, if a
measured value exceeds the predefined limits, an alarm will occur.
• The system itself can generate internal alarms from diagnostic programs, which
supervise the MicroSCADA system components. An alarm will occur, if there are
system communication errors, e.g. if a printer error occurs.
• System alarms are generated by an external module. This module can be
considered as a system watch dog. System alarms of this type cannot be included
in the alarm list.
Other devices in the MicroSCADA system can also generate alarms.
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History database
Events are stored in the history database as event history. The history database
consists of the history database files which each contain events of one day. The
history database is the base for event lists made by LIB 500 Base revision 4.0.2. or
newer. Each event in the history database contains most of the process object
attributes and some history database specific attributes.
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3.4.3.
Report database
The report database stores historical data and calculated values. It also contains
SCIL programs that are executed based on time or events. The report database
contains data objects, command procedures, time channels and event channels.
Report data in the report database needs to be handled mathematically or
statistically. When data is collected from different sources, SCIL algorithms are
used for data analysis and calculations. The data is then stored in the report database.
The reports can be operational reports, alarm and event reports, trends etc.
Figure 3.4.3.-1 shows how data is put in the report database and how it is then
analyzed.
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3.5.
Programming with SCIL
MicroSCADA programming is done with SCIL, which is a high-level application
programming language. SCIL programs, which are created in the SCIL editor,
contain statements that tell the system what to do. The programs can be in pictures,
command procedures, Visual SCIL dialogs and in dialog items. Because
MicroSCADA is built with SCIL, you can find SCIL in all MicroSCADA
applications. Please note that SCIL is only used in MicroSCADA.
Like most other languages, SCIL includes features such as variable assignments,
arithmetics, conditions, block structure, case statements, loops, etc. SCIL is an
interpreted language but a SCIL compiler is also provided.
SCIL commands consist of:
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• commands (e.g. !SHOW.., #SET.., #ON.. etc.)
• objects (e.g. process objects)
• expressions (e.g. TIMES, SECOND, CLOCK)
• variables (e.g. @variable, %variable)
• names (e.g. picture- and dialog names)
There are three types of SCIL commands. Picture commands always begin with “!”,
full graphic and motif commands begin with “.” and manoeuvre commands begin
with “#”.
When you have written a new SCIL program you can check the syntax directly in
the editor, instead of testing your program in the tool menu and recognising a syntax
error there. Syntax errors are identified by specific error codes and their explanations
can be found in the Status Codes manual (1MRS751850-MEN). An example of a
SCIL program is shown below:
;show the trend basket dialog
!WIN_NAME FORMAT/BASKET
!WIN_BG_COLOR FORMAT/BASKET ("M",1)
!WIN_POS FORMAT/BASKET (10,15)
!WIN_PIC FORMAT/BASKET F_USE/FTU_BASKB
!SHOW FORMAT/BASKET
Predefined functions
SCIL contains a large number of powerful predefined functions for various types of
data processing. For example, the following important categories of functions are
available in SCIL:
• Arithmetical functions
• Time functions
• Database functions
• File handling functions
3.5.1.
Objects
MicroSCADA has an object-oriented environment. An object is a programmable
entity that presents something. In MicroSCADA an object presents process units,
system functions or SCIL programs. Objects are defined by their attributes. The
following three objects types: user interface objects, application objects and system
objects, are described in this section.
User interface objects
The user interface in a MicroSCADA system is the content of the MicroSCADA
monitor. The user interface object is an object that forms an application user
interface. Pictures, Visual SCIL dialogs and dialog items are user interface objects.
They are programmed and controlled with SCIL. The user interface object types are
organised in pictures and Visual SCIL Objects. The user interface is described in
details in Section 3.6.
3.5.1.1.
Application objects
Application objects are programmable units, which perform various tasks such as
real time process supervision, control procedures, data registration and storage,
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calculations, automatic time and event activation. Application objects are created,
accessed, modified and deleted with SCIL and application object definition tools.
Application objects include, for example, the following types:
3.5.1.2.
System objects
System objects are programmable units that define the configuration and
communication in a MicroSCADA system. There are two kinds of system objects:
base system objects and communication system objects. These two kinds of objects,
define the MicroSCADA system configuration together with the PC-NET unit
configuration data. With SCIL, system objects are accessed through their attributes.
• Scales
Algorithms for changing values from the process units to values that are
used in the base system. The algorithms may be one-to-one, linear or
stepwise linear. Several process objects may use the same scale.
• Data objects
These register and store sampled or calculated data. Every registered
value has a time stamp and a status code which describes the value
quality. Data objects are used for storing trends, energy value history,
system configuration data, optimisation, calculation, estimations of
energy values etc.
• Command procedures
These are SCIL programs that can be executed automatically or
manually. They can be used for all kinds of automatic operations like
calculations, control operations, report printouts, configurations etc.
They are used e.g. for automatic operations at system start-up.
• Time channels
Time channels are used e.g. for starting programs or data registrations
automatically. Actions are started based on time definitions (e.g. one
hour). A time channel can start several actions. If the same channel
starts several actions, they are started in priority order. A time channel is
generally activated at predefined times, either at a certain time or at
specified intervals.
• Event channels
Event channels are used for automatically starting data registration and
program execution or activating time channels. They are typically
activated after process events, which appear as changes in the process
object values. The event channels transmit information on process
events from the process database to report database where they
activate operations.
• Event objects
Event objects start automatic updating in pictures, based on events. The
event objects can be activated automatically or manually. They have no
attributes.
• Variable objects
Variable objects are temporary lists of attributes and attribute values,
used in SCIL programs.
• Process objects
Process objects are real-time images of process units, such as breakers,
disconnectors, switches, relays, detectors, sensors or controllers. They
store information related to the process.
Generally, each input and output connection in process units is
represented by a process object in a process database. These are
organised in groups. A group consists of a number of indexed process
objects with the same logical name. The objects are typically related to
the same process unit.
Most of the process database functionality is based on process objects.
They supervise signals from process units and control signals that are
sent to them. They contain process data, which is the object value, and
various information related to the data. Attributes store the related
information.
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Base system objects handle the configuration of the base system. They also define
the logical connections to NET units, other base systems and applications. With the
base system objects you modify the base system configuration and the logical
connections to other devices. Every base system has its own base system objects.
Communication system objects and their attributes specify the NET configurations.
They also give the NET an image of communication lines and communication
devices connected to them. Communication system objects handle the process
communication.
3.5.2.
Attributes
An attribute describe the properties of an object and information associated with it.
Attributes describe object values, functions, properties and activities. An object
normally has many different attributes. Each attribute can be defined with SCIL.
Different object types have different sets of attributes.
Static and dynamic attributes
Attributes can be divided into configurable and dynamic attributes. See Figure
3.5.2.-1.
• Configurable attributes define the identification and properties of the object.
Examples of configurable attributes of an object are the object name, object
address, activation criteria, connections to other objects and alarm handling.
Values of configurable attributes can be changed with SCIL or object definition
tools.
• Dynamic attributes represent object values and some additional information
related to the value, such as the status code and the time tag. Dynamic attributes
usually change based on process events.
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Attributes of a process object
Changing the object value of a process object that represents an output controls a
process unit.
The updated process object value is stored with additional information. For
example, the occurence time is stored. Updating can be done with SCIL. Process
events can also lead to an update. Updating may lead to the following actions:
• Alarm related activities
• Printouts
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• Updating in pictures
• Event channel activation
• Event object activation
• Data registration
3.5.3.
Visual SCIL
Visual SCIL is an object-oriented Windows look-and-feel graphical programming
environment. Visual SCIL dialogs are programmed using methods. Methods, except
some predefined and pre-programmed methods, are SCIL programs.
Methods define the dynamic operation of Visual SCIL dialogs and dialog items.
Each dialog and dialog item has its own set of methods. Methods can be executed
cyclically, after certain user operations or certain events. Some methods can be
executed by a method called in SCIL.
Editable methods are programmed in the SCIL program editor, which is accessed
from the Dialog Editor.
3.5.4.
Visual SCIL objects
There are about 40 Visual SCIL objects that can be used for building graphical user
interfaces.
Visual SCIL object types
Visual SCIL objects can be grouped into the following main types:
• Container Group Objects. This group contains dialogs and dialog items which
can contain other dialog items. The objects are containers, picture containers,
menus, notebooks and notebook pages.
• Other Dialog Items (for example a button).
• Images.
Buttons, texts, menus and images are called dialog items in a dialog.
Creating Visual SCIL objects
Dialogs are generally designed and programmed with the Dialog Editor, utilising the
extensive set of included Visual SCIL objects, such as texts, buttons, lists, numeric
spinners, combo boxes, check boxes, menu bars and notebooks. Visual SCIL objects
can be loaded from files or be created by SCIL statements in pictures and dialogs.
Dialog boxes
Visual SCIL objects, for example, dialogs are mostly used when creating tools for
application engineering purposes. The objects are shown in dialog boxes, which first
show the main dialog or a picture container. The main dialog and all the dialogs
opened within it, or from items included in the picture, belong to the same dialog
system.
3.6.
Graphical user interface
The graphical user interface of SYS 500 system server is composed of pictures and
dialogs. Pictures are dynamic illustrations containing a static background, dynamic
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windows and function keys. Pictures are suitable for process illustrations and
controlling the process.
Dialogs made with Visual SCIL are mainly used for creating tools that are used in
the application engineering. Dialogs and other VS objects are shown to the user on
screen in dialog boxes.
3.6.1.
Pictures
The operator uses pictures to supervise and control the process. A picture visualises
a controlled process with different symbols and colors.
Picture components
A picture is composed of picture components, e.g. the picture background, picture
windows, function keys, picture programs and picture functions. The picture
background contains graphics, which are static, unchanging parts of the picture.
Picture windows are dynamic parts of the picture that can be shown, erased and
replaced without any impact on other picture components. Windows may show
complete pictures, text or data, figures or graphs. You can place them anywhere in
the picture, even in a way that they overlap one another.
Function keys are rectangular programmed areas. When you click a function key, a
program or a data entry is executed. Programs define the behaviour of the picture.
When a standard function is installed from a library, a copy of it is added into a
picture as a picture function.
A picture function is a set of picture components, which may include all the
components mentioned above. The picture components are shown in Figure 3.6.1.-
1. A picture may contain picture windows which can contain pictures as well. It may
also contain a number of picture functions, which are also constructed as pictures.
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3.7.
Base tools
Base tools make it easier to use a MicroSCADA system. For example,
configurations can be made by using SCIL commands, but the system tools makes
the configuration procedure easier.
Tools are used for building, modifying and viewing system and application
components. They are used for the following tasks:
• Editing pictures and dialogs.
• SCIL programming.
• Managing application objects, for example viewing, modifying and creating
them.
• Testing application functionality.
• Creating, modifying and viewing system objects.
• Searching text strings from SCIL programs, pictures and text files.
The tools can be divided into the following groups:
• User interface tools
• Application tools
• System tools
• Accessory tools
These groups are described with more details in the following sections. The tools
can be opened from the Tool Manager (see Figure 3.7.1) where different tools are
found on different tool pages.
The tool pages can easily be modified. You can change the names of the pages, add
new tool pages (and delete them), move tools from one page to another, insert new
tools etc.
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3.7.1.
System configuration tools
System configuration tools are used to specify system objects and attributes, and
functions that are related to the objects. Font Setting, Color Setting, Date/Time
Settings, Base System Configuration and System Configuration tools are examples
of the system tools.
3.7.2.
Application object tools
Application tools are used to define objects, attributes and other features, which are
closely related to an application and its functionality. On the Application Objects
tools page, you find the Object Navigator and the Doc./Export tool. Application
tools are a set of application object definition tools and an object navigator.
With the object navigator you can view object lists, access definitions for different
objects, add, copy and delete objects. The Process Object Definition tool (Figure
3.7.2.-1) is, for example, found in the Object Navigator. It is used to define process
objects of the predefined types.
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User interface tools
User interface tools are mainly used to define the graphical user interface of an
application or a tool. User interface tools are e.g. the dialog editor, the picture editors
(full graphic and semi graphic), the text translation tool and the representation
library editor (full graphic and semigraphic).
The picture editor is used to design and program pictures. It contains separate modes
for designing picture background, picture functions, function keys and picture
windows. When picture components are edited, different tools can be opened. For
example, the Window Editor can only be opened when the window tool is chosen.
Pictures can be created from the beginning, when the project engineer creates
graphics and functionalities. Since the same kind of graphics and functionalities are
needed for many applications, some pre-made picture functions can be taken from
application libraries. The Picture Editor is shown in Figure 3.7.2.-2.
Please note that there is a difference between pictures and figures in MicroSCADA.
A picture is dynamic and contains e.g. buttons, windows and programs, while a
figure is a static picture that is included in the dynamic picture, e.g. the picture
background.
The Representation Library Manager is used to copy or move a representation from
one library to another one. The Representation Library Editor is used to edit the
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features of the picture windows that cannot be edited in the Window Editor. You can
also create new representations by simply copying the old ones.
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The Dialog Editor is used to create Visual SCIL dialogs. A new dialog can be added
into a file or an existing dialog can be edited. The Dialog Editor includes geometry
management facilities and enables translation of texts.
The Text Translation Tool enables translating texts in all tools and dialogs (or the
texts in LIB 5XX Application Libraries pictures) into local languages.
3.7.3.
Accessory tools
Accessory tools, which are mainly used in the system engineering, are found on the
Miscellaneous page in the Tool Manager. The SCIL Program Editor, Test Dialog,
DB <--> Text Tool and Search Tool are examples of accessory tools.
The SCIL Program Editor is an accessory tool, which is a text editor that is
especially developed for editing SCIL programs. It can be opened from several other
tools when SCIL programs should be edited. You can, of course, open the editor
from the Tool Manager when you want to create and edit a text file. The SCIL
Program Editor includes a number of useful features. For example, it enables
cutting, copying and pasting program lines as well as searching and replacing text.
A program can be copied to and from an ASCII file.
The Test Dialog is used to execute SCIL command lines to find out values for
variables of different data types. You can also save the Test Dialog outlook at exit,
create some procedures and start them.
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3.8.
Peripheral equipment
Printers
Up to 20 printers can be connected to a base system, either directly or through LAN.
The printers can be of various types, e.g. transparent printers, matrix printers and
laser printers. In addition to these printers, the ones defined in the operating system
can be accessed by MicroSCADA.
Each printer has a unique printer number, which can be associated with a certain
task. For example, the task can be an alarm and event printout, hard copy, historical
reports and so on. A printer can be programmed to take over the tasks of another
printer automatically.
Printouts can be produced automatically or manually. The printout layout can be
customised. The main printout types are logs, reports, hard copies and documents.
Logs are automatic printouts based on process events. The logs can be directed to
one or several printers.
Alarm devices
The MicroSCADA alarm unit is a normal computer card with a cable connection
card. The cable connection card has two outputs. The first output is connected to a
standard MicroSCADA alarm panel, which contains alarm class specific lights and
push buttons for light and sound acknowledgement. The second output can be
connected to 8 alarm devices.
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4. Communication
systems
4.1.
General
Information needs to be transmitted between the SYS 500 system server and process
units. In some cases information from the process units needs to be transmitted to
the network control centers as well. Commands sent from the network control
centers to process units need to be transmitted in the same way. The data
transmission is a task for the communication system. The process unit protocol is
often different from the network control center protocol. This is why a protocol
conversion is needed.
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The communication system also handles the communication between other devices
in the MicroSCADA system, for example, between two system servers or two
communication servers.
The communication can be divided into upper level communication and process
communication. See Figure 4.1.-2. Some protocols used for communication are
shown in the picture.
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4.1.1.
Upper level communication
Upper level communication means communication between the process units, the
substation control system and the network control center. There can be a SYS 500
system server or a third-party system in the network control center.
The upper level communication is usually an asynchronous serial communication
that uses telephone lines, radio links or power line carriers as the physical media.
4.1.2.
Process communication
Process communication is the communication between the substation control
system and the protection and control devices connected to the physical process. In
case there is no substation control system, the protection and control devices are
connected directly to the network control system, usually by data concentrators or
remote terminal units (RTUs). The protection and control devices are usually
connected to each other and the communication is thus called a process bus or field
bus.
Because of electromagnetic disturbances caused by the primary electric process,
optic fibres are mostly used as communication media in the process communication.
The communication line is usually faster than the one used in the upper level
communication due to the larger quantity of data.
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4.1.3.
Network topologies
Most of the communication protocols implemented in MicroSCADA are so called
master-slave protocols. The master is the primary station controlling the data
requests and sending the command. The slave is the secondary station sending data
to the master, either when requested or spontaneously, and executing commands
sent by the master.
Some protocols, for example DNP V3.00, also support so called peer-to-peer
communication, which means that slaves can communicate directly with each other.
The number of masters and slaves connected to one communication line is limited
by the protocol used. In practice the limitation is set by required performance and
response. The more devices are connected to one line, the more bandwidth the
communication requires.
There are several possibilities how to connect the master and the slave, or slaves.
The direct topology (point-to-point) can be a direct physical cable from point-to-
point or a two-node radio, or modem network. The serial bus topology (multi-drop)
is commonly made up of many modems with their outputs/inputs tied together, or
by using a star-coupler. Figure 4.1.3.-1 illustrates these network topologies.
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A special type of a multi-drop communication is a communication loop, which is
described in Figure 4.1.3.-2. A communication loop is a type of multi-drop
communication where the line forms a loop. This means that there is always an
alternative line leading to a node, even if a line is broken. Redundancy is achieved
without duplicating the lines.
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4.2.
COM 500 communication server
General
COM 500 is a communication server, which provides gateway services for routing
the data flow between the process and network control systems. The data transfer
usually involves protocol conversion. It also handles system co-ordination tasks,
such as dynamic assignments of the control command authorities. See Figure 4.2.-1.
COM 500 supports a variety of protocols for connecting upper level systems, like
some network control centers. It is typically connected to the network by some
telecontrol protocol, for example RP 570. Different devices such as L
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devices, SPA devices and RTUs can be connected to it. COM 500 sends information
to one of these devices for supervising and controlling the customer process.
COM 500 is based on MicroSCADA technology, like SYS 500. It can be integrated
to SYS 500 for cost savings in compact system solutions. It also offers an interface
for communication diagnostics of the control system.
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and other countries.
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Functional environment
Figure 4.2.-2. describes the functional environment of a COM 500 application.
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Example system
COM 500 is a communication server, which runs on the MicroSCADA base system.
It can utilise both the DCP-NET and PC-NET units. Several COM 510 and COM
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530 may be connected to a COM 500 in order to increase the system performance.
An example of a COM 500 system is shown in Figure 4.2.-3.
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COM 500 sees each NCC and each local process unit as a station. (The local process
unit is a system object type.) The communication mainly passes through the process
database.
Communication from COM 500 to the Network Control Center (NCC) is based on
command procedures. The command procedures send information to the NET unit
for protocol conversion and transmission. Typically one command procedure is
needed for each type of data to be transferred. At start-up and after communication
disturbances all specified data is transferred. When the system is running, process
events generally activate the command procedures via event channels.
Commands and setpoints from the NCC to the substation are brought into the COM
500 application via process objects. The process objects activate, via event channels,
command procedures, which contain actual control commands to the process units.
Safety is increased by using select-before-execute commands and a two-step
authority check mechanism.
4.3.
Communication front-ends
A communication front-end is a computer which is especially reserved for process
communication. It is connected to a base system through LAN. The communication
front-end is used for increasing the number of communication lines. It can also be
used for distributing the communication lines over LAN and to decrease the load of
the SYS 500 computer.
A communication front-end can contain either PC-NET or DCP-NET units. Usually
a communication front-end is equipped with a display and other operator
workstations facilities. An example of components in a communication front-end is
shown in Figure 4.3.-2. Components that can be found in a communication front-end
are DCP-NET software, a DCP card, COM ports and MFL.
MFL or base system software can be the supporting software in a communication
front-end. MFL is message routing software used for loading DCP-NET software to
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DCP cards. It also serves as a communicator between the base systems and NET
software.
COM 510 communication front-end
COM 510 is a DOS based computer, containing 1-4 DCP-NET units and MFL.
Needed hardware is a DCP card from Emulex. COM 510 is connected to a base
system through LAN. The base system is to be found in SYS 500 system server or
in COM 500 communication server. See Figure 4.3.-1.
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COM 530 communication front-end
COM 530 is a Windows NT based computer containing 1-2 DCP-NET units and/or
a PC-NET unit with the base system software dedicated to message routing. See
Figure 4.3.-2.
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4.4.
NET unit
The NET unit consists of NET software and communication hardware that is needed
to run it. The NET unit can be placed in a base system computer or in a
communication front-end. For example, PC-NET software with a PCLTA card is
considered as a NET unit. The NET unit also includes configuration data of the unit
itself, the lines and the connected devices. Event and alarm printers may also be
connected to the NET unit.
The NET unit is used to increase the amount of available protocols and COM ports,
and also to decrease memory consumption and processor load of the base system
computer.
Task
The task of the NET unit is to convert external protocols to an internal protocol of
MicroSCADA, which is used in the communication between the MicroSCADA
nodes (base systems) and the NET units. The external protocol is used for
communication with process units. This way devices and systems can be connected
to MicroSCADA by using several communication protocols.
In addition, NET units handle the following tasks:
• Message routing between physical devices and applications in the base systems.
• Diagnostic supervision of connected devices and lines.
NET unit types
MicroSCADA has two types of communication units, DCP-NET and PC-NET.
DCP-NET consists of a DCP-NET software running on a specific Emulex board,
whereas PC-NET is a program running on the base system computer.
DCP-NET unit
The DCP-NET unit is a NET unit containing DCP-NET communication software
and a DCP card. It can be either an external or an internal NET unit. The Internal
NET unit is placed in the base system computer, which means that it is in the same
computer as COM 500 or SYS 500. Two DCP cards can be placed into the base
system computer.
The external NET unit is in a communication front-end. There can be four DCP
cards in a communication front-end. The DCP card has 8 NET lines that can be
connected to process units or other devices.
PC-NET unit
PC-NET communication software is similar to the communication software of the
DCP-NET unit. It runs on the main processor of a Windows NT computer in parallel
with the MicroSCADA Kernel. The PC-NET unit can be placed in the base system
computer or in a communication front-end.
For communication with the LonTalk
®
2
protocol the PC-NET unit uses a PCLTA
card. (PC LonTalk Adapter). For communication it also uses COM ports. The COM
2. LonTalk is a trademark of Echelon Corporation registered in the United States and
other countries.
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ports of the base system may be used, but they are often needed for other
communication purposes. An additional multi-port serial card may be used.
4.5.
Communication system components
The communication system contains communication software, communication
hardware and networks.
4.5.1.
Communication software
Communication software includes protocols, protocol environment software,
supporting software, operating system and devices.
Protocols
Every-day transmission involves, besides the communication hardware, also logical
agreements, i.e. protocols. Protocols are a set of "traffic rules" and conventions for
sending information in the network. They govern the content, format, timing,
sequencing and error control of messages.
Transmitted data is coded according to the protocol rules. Protocols are very
important when it comes to the communication in a system.
SPA, RP 570 and LonTalk are examples of master protocols that can be used for
process communication in a MicroSCADA system. Communication between the
base system and communication front-ends is based on the internal protocol of
MicroSCADA. Slave protocols are used for communication between the NET units
and network control centers.
Protocol development software
CPI (Communication Programming Interface) is a protocol development software
that is used for implemented protocols in MicroSCADA environment. It is a
collection of functions that help to convert between the internal protocol of
MicroSCADA and some other protocols. An application program, which exchanges
data between MicroSCADA and a foreign system, can be made by using CPI. The
communication between a CPI application program and MicroSCADA base system
is based on TCP/IP network.
Supporting software
Supporting software is needed for running communication software. It can be either
a MFL or a base system. The base system is used as the supporting software when
PC-NET is used in a COM 530 communication front-end. (MFL is described in
Section 4.3.)
Operating system and device software
An operating system can be either Windows NT or DOS. In COM 500 or SYS 500
the operating system is always Windows NT. Device software contains e.g. different
programs that are used to handle communication with a LMK device, SPA device
or printer. The software uses point definitions in the NET unit, for example, for
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4.5.2.
Networks
LAN, L
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network and serial lines can be used for communication in a
MicroSCADA system.
LAN
LAN (Local Area Network) is a network used in a geographically small area, for
example, inside a company. In a MicroSCADA system, LAN is usually used for
communication between the base system, front-ends and workstations, and for upper
level communication. It has a large capacity for data transmission. Usually TCP/IP
(Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is used for data transmission in
LAN networks. TCP/IP provides communication across the connected networks of
computers, with several protocols.
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network
L
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network is a network where LonTalk is used for communication in
distributed networks. With the L
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communication technology it is possible
to build a protection and control system including more than one network control
center, NCC. The NCCs receive status values, measurements and time-tagged
events from process units. L
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network is built around a star-coupler, which
connects other devices into a star form.
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Serial lines
Serial transmission of data can be used for upper level and process communication.
Usually it is used when communication cannot be realized in a LAN network. The
serial transmission passes through the COM ports of the computer.
4.5.3.
Communication hardware
Communication hardware includes protocol hardware, connection cards and
supporting hardware.
Protocol hardware
Protocol hardware is needed to run the protocols. It can be either a PC or a DCP card.
Connection cards
Connection cards are used to handle communication between base system and
external nodes. They are communication hardware that can be placed in the base
system computer. For example PCLTA card or Multiport serial card are connection
cards. PC-NET software uses PCLTA card (PC LonTalk Adapter) or Multiport
Serial card to communicate.
PCLTA card is an ISA bus card. Two NET lines can be connected to it and to the
L
ON
W
ORKS
network. Multiport serial card is a connection card inside the computer.
Its purpose is to extend the amount of COM ports that can be used for
communication.The COM ports of the computer can be used for other tasks.
Supporting hardware
Supporting hardware is communication hardware outside the NET unit. It can be
e.g. a modem, a network card, a fallback switch or a time synchronisation device.
A modem is a device that converts the computer’s digital signals to analog signals
before transmission. Thus, one data transmission needs two modems, one at each
end of the line.
Network cards are used for connecting a computer to a network, for example to a
LAN network. For redundant LAN, a special type of network card is needed.
A fallback switch is a card that is used to switch a serial line to another one (e.g. with
redundant front-ends). This means that it changes, for example, the secondary DCP-
NET unit to a primary DCP-NET unit.
Time synchronisation means that the time in the internal clocks of the MicroSCADA
system are synchronised. The time can also be changed so that it is the same as an
external time source. An external time source can be for example:
• GPS (Global Positioning System), which is normally used for satellite based
navigation
• Radio clock
• Device in upper level system, e.g. a network control system
Clocks in a base system and in a communication front-end are often synchronised.
36
1MRS751852-MUM
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
MicroSCADA
4.
Communication systems Product Guide
4.6.
Process units
Process units are devices in the process. They collect data from the process and
execute orders from the base system. Process units can, be for example, REx, SPA,
or LMK device or RTU. The process units are handled as stations inside the
MicroSCADA system. The concept RTU was also previously used for the process
unit.
Process units can be divided into primary devices and secondary devices. Process
devices are called primary devices. The devices needed for automation are called
secondary devices. For example, breakers and disconnectors are primary devices
and relays are secondary devices. See Figure 4.6.-1.
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MicroSCADA
37
5. LIB 5xx application
libraries
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
Product Guide
5
5.
LIB 5xx application libraries
5.1.
Application engineering
Application engineering means the process of customising MicroSCADA for a user
by creating an application which contains supervisory control functions. The
application can also contain pictures, dialogs, SCIL programs and necessary object
definitions. See Figure 5.1.-1.
The picture editor, the application object definition tools, the application libraries
and SCIL programming are used for application engineering. Application libraries
provide a fast application engineering of standard solutions, while SCIL
programming allows a variety of applications, even extreme specialisation.
Application engineering can be some of the tasks mentioned below.
• Creating the user interface by using the picture editor, application libraries and
dialog editor. Installation and configuration of standard functions is done in the
picture editor.
• Creating and defining application objects. Application objects are defined in the
picture editor or in the application object definition tools.
• Programming additional and other picture functionalities. This is mainly done by
using the SCIL editor.
• Programming other functionalities, for example, supervisory control and
calculation functions.
These tasks are generally done in parallel. Simultaneous display of several
MicroSCADA pictures in separate MicroSCADA monitors can be done on the same
screen. This means that system control, application engineering, maintenance and
operation can be done at the same time.
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1MRS751852-MUM
38
1MRS751852-MUM
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
MicroSCADA
5.
LIB 5xx application
libraries
Product Guide
5.2.
Application libraries
Application libraries are MicroSCADA Technology products that contain a set of
standardised application functions. The libraries can be used for fast application
engineering of standard solutions. They include standard functions, which are
installed to the picture. Objects connected to various functions are created
automatically when standard functions are installed into the picture. Process object
attributes are also given default values.
Standardised application functions can be, for example, alarm and event lists, single
line diagram components or specific tools and process unit specific tools and
functions. SCIL programming can be used, if standardised application functions
cannot solve specific customer requirements.
Customer applications can be built by installing and configuring functions from
application libraries, for example, from LIB 510.
LIB 5xx application libraries
LIB 5XX is a set of application libraries, which contain the following products:
• LIB 500 Base, which is a platform for other support packages (LIB 5xx),
containing several backbone functions. It also provides event and alarm lists,
busbar coloring and system self-supervision.
• LIB 510, which provides application functions for monitoring and controlling
medium voltage process.
• LIB 520, which is mainly intended for high voltage applications.
• LIB 530, which is intended for medium and high voltage applications.
• LIB 580, which is also a high voltage library.
Which application library to select, depends on what process devices are used in the
system. Each product center provides an application library for its own protection
and control products.
Standard functions can be tools dedicated to certain protection terminals for
parameterisation or disturbance collecting. They can also be used in station pictures,
e.g. like the Medium Voltage components in LIB 510. The LIB 510 support package
is mainly intended for products like SPACOM, RED 500 etc.
Standard functions are copied from the application libraries. The copy is installed to
a station picture and configured to fit a specific process. A lot of time is saved when
working this way, since the standard functions are already tested and their reliability
is high. Another benefit with the standard functions is that they are continuously
developed and kept up-to-date.
MicroSCADA
Index
Product Guide
Index
Page
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Accessory Tools
Alarm
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COM 530
COM Ports
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......................................................................................... 3
Communication
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................................................................................................. 17
Connection Cards
Container Group Objects
............................................................................................... 18
CPI
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Data Transmission
Database
DCP-NET Unit
DCP-NET unit
Device Software
Diagnostic programs
Dialog
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Direct topology
Distributed System
Dynamic Attributes
1MRS751852-MUM
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
1MRS751852-MUM
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
MicroSCADA
Index
Product Guide
(
Event
External Time Source
)
Fallback Switch
Flat system
Full graphic command
Function Keys
*
Gateway
GPS
Graphical User Interface
............................................................................................... 18
+
Hierarchical system
History Database
HSI (Human System Interface)
.............................................................................5
,
Information Flow
Integrated system
Internal NET unit
/
LAN
Laptop computer
LIB 500 Base
LIB 510
LIB 520
LIB 530
LIB 580
LIB 5XX
Local Area Network (LAN)
...................................................................................... 4
LONWORKS Network
................................................................................................. 34
0
Main computer
Methods
MFL
Microcomputer-based
MicroSCADA
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Modem
.......................................................................................................................... 35
1MRS751852-MUM
MicroSCADA
Index
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
Product Guide
Motif command
Multi-drop network topology
........................................................................................ 27
Multiport Serial Card
Multi-user system
1
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Operating System
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PCLTA card
PC-NET unit
Peer-to-peer communication
......................................................................................... 27
Picture
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Predefined Functions
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1MRS751852-MUM
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
MicroSCADA
Index
Product Guide
5
Redundant system
Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)
................................................................................. 26
Report
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SCIL
SCIL Program Editor
SCS
Secondary Devices
Serial
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Standardised application functions
............................................................................... 38
Station
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SYS 500 Components
SYS 500 Computer
SYS 500 System Server
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System
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TCP/IP
TCP/IP network
Telecontrol Protocol
Test Dialog
Text Translation Tool
Time Synchronisation
Tool Manager
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
......................................................... 34
Two-node network
8
Upper Level Communication
........................................................................................ 25
User
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Visual SCIL
Visual SCIL Objects
................................................................................................ 15
1MRS751852-MUM
MicroSCADA
Index
Introduction to MicroSCADA Technology
Product Guide
:
Workstation
Workstation Programs
;
X-monitor type