SCADA Computer sites and troubleshooting

Computers and RTUs usually run without problems for a long time if left to themselves. Maintenance tasks could include daily, weekly, monthly or annual checks. When maintenance is necessary, the technician or engineer may need to check the following equipment on a regular basis:

• The RTU and component modules
• Analog input modules
• Digital input module
• Interface from RTU to PLC (RS-232/RS-485)
• Privately owned cable
• Switched telephone line
• Analog or digital data links
• The master sites
• The central site
• The operator station and software

Two main rules that are always followed in repair and maintenance of electronic systems are:
• If it is not broken, don’t fix it
• Do no harm
Technicians and engineers have caused more problems, than they started with, by doing stupid things like cleaning the equipment because it was slightly dusty. Or trying to get that one more .01 dB of power out of a radio and blown the amplifier in the process.