Supervisory control and data acquisition or SCADA software systems are definitely not cheap, especially if you are planning to buy the latest model. But doing so is worth it and you don’t have to worry about transferring your files from your old system to the new one, as there are ways to do it seamlessly.
If you want to get the newest and updated SCADA system for your solar power plant, there are lots of benefits to it. Find out how you can ensure a smooth and successful transition.
Dealing with the PLC Tags
The Programmable Logic Controller or PLC captures the tag, which is a data point that is passed onto the SCADA system. These tags are usually created by the user, which means you can define and structure it the best way you feel it should, depending on the SCADA’s function. Building PLC tags for new SCADA systems can be time-consuming, meaning you will save a lot of time if you update your old system’s PLC tags instead.
However, there are much more modern SCADA systems that you can buy to transfer your PLC tags from the old unit to the new one. This will greatly reduce the time needed for the process, but buying a new one is a huge investment.
Transferring Historical Data
The historical data has been stored in the process history. These are very useful and are especially important when it comes to creating accurate trending charts. Many process historians use propriety flat file types, which can be difficult or almost impossible for other SCADA systems to work with.
Luckily, it is possible to transfer and import historical data from your old SCADA system to the new unit. But it still depends on what type of modern SCADA system you are using, as well as the type of historical data you have saved in the past. Keep in mind that some data from a few historians can be imported through an SQL database. This is easier to work with than if it gets stuck in a process historian.
If you are planning on buying a new and modern SCADA software, make sure you get one that takes full advantage of SQL databases. This will allow you to get your data into an open format, which makes it accessible to other programs.
Using Your Old Project Structure
Thankfully, you do not have to sacrifice your old project structure just because you are replacing your SCADA system. The project structure deals with planning, thinking, organizing, and the design work that goes into a SCADA system’s basic framework creation. Things such as the type of screens that needs to be created for the system, the functions included on each screen, and the sequence are included in this.
Before creating or buying a new SCADA system, make sure you have the full version of your old project, as well as the old SCADA that it was created in. This will help make the transition easier for you and your team.