5 December 2022

SCADA Vs PLC | Difference | Comparison

The main difference between Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) and Programmable logic controller(PLC) are two important technological development in the industrial sector. These technologies complement one another to deliver a vital function. The major difference between PLC and SCADA is that PLC is hardware whereas SCADA is Software.

What is SCADA?

SCADA stands for supervisory control and data acquisition. SCADA is a software and hardware-based system that enables industrial organizations to HMI software allowing you to interact directly with devices such as sensors, valves, pumps, motors, and others. SCADA systems are used to control and monitor physical processes such as power transmission, gas, and transportation in pipelines, water distribution, traffic lights, and other systems that form the foundation of modern society.

Related Terms: SCADA Vs DCS

What is PLC?

PLC stands for programming logic controller. In industry, a PLC is a microcontroller device used to control and automate a machine. PLCs are primarily intended to replace hardwired relay logic controllers in order to improve industrial processes. 

Related Terms: PLC vs Arduino

SCADA Vs PLC | Difference between SCADA and PLC:

  • SCADA stands for supervisory control and ATA acquisition. PLC stands for the programmable logic controller. 
  • In SCADA Pics of software that integrates with multiple PLCs and RTU for controlling and monitoring purposes. PLC is a centralized controller is used for automation tasks.
  • SCADA is multiple software vendors available in the market. While in PLC software is used for programming provided by manufacturing companies.
  • In both systems, redundancy is possible in PLC and SCADA systems.
  • In SCADA, downtime is converging into loss of production, equipment failure, and creating hazardous situations. PLC, downtime is only covering into loss of production.
  • SCADA is a complex control strategy implemented. While PLC basic control strategies are implemented.
  • In SCADA, implementation cost is higher than PLC but lower than DCS. While in PLC implications const is low compared to others.
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