How Do Industrial Control Systems Use Data?

As industrial control systems handle bigger and more complex tasks, there is a growing need for IT data management and support to help coordinate the industrial control system, and secure it as well. As a result, industrial control systems depend more and more on Big Data to help plan, optimize and improve operations at your industrial company.

This can take many forms, such as enhanced automation of your industrial processes to improve accuracy and efficiency, detailed reporting that measures every aspect of the production process looking for ways to improve the overall process, or helping managers and engineers identify and resolve problems before they result in a production slowdown, or worse yet, a complete work stoppage.

What Kind of Data Does Industrial Control Systems Handle?

Industrial control systems collect and use many different types of data. This can be the primary data that runs and controls the equipment or enhanced functions such as coordinating the operation of multiple systems, managing production speed, and also delivering data gathered by sophisticated sensors installed within the system. Because of these enhancements, the industrial control systems require software with customizable configuration and reporting to manage the production process. The industrial control system communicates via a wired or wireless signal that updates the data constantly. This interconnectivity between the industrial control system and the equipment that it runs makes it vulnerable to threats both outside and within the business.

Why is Data Security Important?

Cyberattacks on industrial companies are becoming more and more commonplace in today’s world. The tight-knit interconnectivity between the industrial control system, the equipment that performs tasks, and the networks and data architecture that support them make it vulnerable to outside attacks from hackers. But internal issues such as equipment failure, employees bypassing the system’s operation, or external factors that prevent peak efficiencies such as temperature, humidity, or other environmental conditions.

Luckily, the tight integration between today’s industrial control systems and Big Data makes it easier than ever to spot problems, whether caused by internal conditions or an outside cyberattack, can be configured to detect these issues before they can cause production problems.

Let Tri-State Electrical Contractors Help with Your Industrial Control System Installation and Maintenance

At Tri-State Electrical, we can handle every aspect of your industrial control systems. From providing the industrial electrical work to supply your equipment with power, to providing the PLC programming needed to run your system. in the Southeastern US? For more information, give us a call at (423) 800-2134, fill out our simple online form, or email us at info@tristateec.com today.