SCADA systems communicate over protocols such as Modbus TCP, OPC UA, EtherNet/IP and DNP3, depending on the devices and the industry. The protocol determines how the supervisory layer exchanges data with controllers, instruments and remote sites.
- OPC UA: A platform-independent standard that moves data securely from controllers to SCADA, MES and analytics systems.
- Modbus TCP: A widely supported open protocol for connecting mixed-vendor devices on one network.
- EtherNet/IP: An industrial Ethernet protocol common on Allen-Bradley and Rockwell systems.
- DNP3: A protocol common in water, wastewater and utility SCADA for reliable communication with remote sites.
The protocol mix matters most where many devices and sites tie into one network. Look at the backbone that carries it in our network panels.
