SCADA/Telemetry

Datalink Telemetry Software

IPscada is a low cost packet data network for linking remote telemetry devices with base control computers. It uses satellite or terrestrial network communications to provide network coverage options for any location. Functionally, it connects server computers located at single or multiple base offices to remote monitoring or control devices. Applications include gas production, pipelines, pumping stations, mining sites, compressor stations, reservoir storage tanks and remote seismographs.

Server Connection

Existing HMI software connects to the DataGate using a TCP/IP connection. DataGate supports most data protocols that contain an address field (such as Modbus).

The DataGate decodes the address field and uses a look-up table to direct the packet to the appropriate remote device. A connection between the HMI software and remote device is then created, allowing two-way transparent communications.

Remote Connection

A Datalink i50 black-box acts as an interface between the remote monitoring devices and the DataGate server. Each i50 connects using an RS-232 port, and buffers data for transmission over terrestrial or satellite networks to provide global coverage.

To further reduce costs, a single i50 can server multiple monitoring devices using a simple spread spectrum or radio modem.

Advantages

• Simple replacement of existing high-cost network links
• Security encryption available
• Transparent data transfer
• Multipoint data transmission
• Easy integration to existing IT infrastructure

Remote Intelligence

Many SCADA systems use verbose protocols and rely on device polling to retrieve data. This generates a lot of traffic, which is not an issue when the link uses a dedicated network connection. However, this is often cost prohibitive when using packet satellite connections.

Datalink has overcome this problem by introducing intelligent monitoring at the remote device. By issuing the appropriate commands to the RTU in the field, the black-box can send much smaller payloads over the network, and transmit only when required. This eliminates the need for frequent polling and allows the use of low cost satellite links on a global basis.

Current implementations include NTCIP interfaces for highway signs and weather monitoring.

Demonstration software available on request

Please contact us if you wish to discuss your particular remote monitoring and control requirements with our technical sales department.