RACO Whitepaper - Information Delivery for Remote Monitoring Systems: An Analysis of Communication Platforms
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RACO Whitepaper - Information Delivery for Remote Monitoring Systems: An Analysis of Communication Platforms
- 1. www.racoman.com • 1-800-722-6999
- 3. The purpose is to provide you with the information you need to choose the appropriate communication platform. www.racoman.com • 1-800-722-6999
- 4. Landline is the most frequently used method of communicating with RTU technology, BUT… The advent of cellular wireless and control channel wireless technologies has opened up more options. In addition, the number of requirements expected of the RTU has increased. www.racoman.com • 1-800-722-6999
- 8. The RTU obtains information from the unattended equipment and sends it via the landline network to multiple predetermined destinations. www.racoman.com • 1-800-722-6999 Landline Network
- 9. The RTU sends information from the unattended equipment to a Cellular Fixed Wireless Terminal (CFWT), which then sends the information to the landline network, where it is delivered to predetermined destinations. www.racoman.com • 1-800-722-6999 Cellular Network
- 10. The RTU gathers information that is transmitted in “data packets” via the cellular control channel network to the landline network, where they are sent to the RTU manufacturer’s central data server. The data is then placed on the manufacturer’s Web site for user access. A notification alarm is forwarded to predetermined destinations. www.racoman.com • 1-800-722-6999 Cellular Control Channel Network
- 21. Downloadable pdf of RACO Communication Platform Paper (right click with your computer mouse and select “Open in New Window”) You should use all the information in this presentation to make a decision based on what works best for your business situation and application. If you need assistance making a decision, one of our experts can help you. Contact RACO at 800-722-6999 or [email_address] www.racoman.com • 1-800-722-6999
Editor's Notes
- Thank you, ______. or Hello, my name is _____. Before we begin, I want to let you know that you’ve all been provided with handouts that feature the screens from the presentation you’ll see today. I encourage you to take notes in the space provided. In addition, at the conclusion of this presentation, I will make available a white paper that covers the same information we’ve discussed here today. I will also entertain any questions you have.
- Welcome to the RACO Communication Platform Presentation. Recent changes in telephone communications technology have led to multiple communication platforms accessing information at remote sites. This presentation will: examine the basics of remote monitoring look at how information might travel via telephone to interested parties set up criteria to evaluate the alternatives use that criteria to make a logical decision In a nutshell, we will match the platform against the desired functionalities.
- My purpose is to provide you with the information you need to choose the telephone communication platform that’s right for you. Hopefully, this will help you get over the hurdle of matching what you want to do with what you can do. To achieve this, let us start by briefly examining the evolution of communication and RTU technology.
- New technologies have added more capabilities—and more confusion. One of our goals here today is to clear up that confusion. Landline, the easiest understood of the technologies, has been and continues to be the most frequently used method of communication for remote terminal units, or RTU’s. Recently, however, cellular wireless has allowed RTU’s to communicate from very remote sites. In addition, control channel wireless technologies have opened up other options for the user. RTU’s are now expected to communicate more information to an increasing number of destinations. The three platforms—landline, cellular, and cellular control channel, or combinations of these—have increased the complexity of RTU selection. We will examine these technologies in detail.
- Before you can decide on a specific RTU or platform, you must first define and evaluate five things: Common RTU functions: The four most common functions that may be performed by RTU’s, depending on unit specifications. Includes continuous monitoring, alarm notification, data logging, and control. Communication delivery methods: The three ways that make it possible for you to transfer information from the unattended equipment to the predetermined destinations: landline, cellular, and cellular control channel. Common applications: The primary uses intended for your communication platform, since each delivery method offers specific features that make it more appropriate for some applications than others. Evaluation of communication platforms: An examination of the features and capabilities of each platform to see which is the best fit for your application(s). Your business objectives: The specific goals you want to achieve with your communication platform. Defining these items is easier after you reach an understanding of the capabilities of the RTU’s and the communication platforms.
- For purposes of this presentation, let’s divide the common functions of the RTU into four areas: Continuous monitoring . Provides personnel with the ability to contact, interrogate and interact with unattended equipment at all times without having to visit the site. Types of information monitored include performance levels, output parameters, predictive and preventative maintenance schedules, and other environmental conditions. This function is the most common use of RTU technology. Alarm notification . Enables RTU’s to detect and report preprogrammed alarm conditions, such as system or equipment failures, out-of-range performance levels, maintenance alerts, or security breaches. When an alarm condition occurs, the system automatically contacts predetermined destinations to notify personnel of the location and nature of the alarm. Most systems will continue contacting destinations until an authorized individual acknowledges the alarm condition. Data logging . Allows for remote data collection from a variety of process points. These systems sample designated input values at scheduled intervals and then send that data to a predetermined destination in formatted reports. Depending upon the model, units can be polled at any time and will report the data to a remote location, such as a telephone, fax, or email, on demand. Combined data logging and alarm notification systems are available. Control Functionality . This function expands the capability of the RTU and allows personnel to perform programming and control functions from a remote location. Functions include the ability to increase or decrease flow rates, the manipulation of output relays, and the ability to change performance parameters. This function may already be part of an RTU, or may be added by either integrating the unit with a SCADA system or by connecting it to a PLC device. All of these functions are impacted by the telephone communication platform chosen.
- The RTU’s must deliver information from the unattended equipment to predetermined destinations using one or a combination of the three communications platforms. The desired functionality and destinations chosen may determine the communication platform used. Let us therefore look more closely at these platforms.
- In a pure landline situation, the following is true: The RTU is solely responsible for sending the desired information from the unattended equipment directly to multiple predetermined destinations. With only one system—the landline network—in the chain of communication, the chance of failure is minimal. The information is delivered in a serial fashion until acknowledgement is received. The destinations can be voice devices as well as data devices. Included are: telephones pagers faxes cell phones SCADA computers voice mail email other RTU’s Sometimes a landline to the unattended equipment is unavailable, which leads us to the cellular platform.
- With the cellular platform, the following is true: The information from the unattended equipment is transmitted from an RTU via a cellular fixed wireless terminal. The cellular is usually communicating to the same landline devices as in the previous slide. There are now two systems in the chain—cellular and landline—which increases the possibility for failure. Depending on the cellular carrier, some destination devices or RTU functions may be restricted. Recently, RTUs using the control channel of the cellular system have been introduced, which leads us to the next method.
- Under this platform, the information is transmitted in the following sequence: 1. In data packets via the cellular control channel to landlines. 2. From landlines to the control channel service provider’s server (the CCSP). 3. From the CCSP to the RTU manufacturer’s central data server. 4. The data is then placed on a Web site for user access. 5. The notification function, located at the central data server, notifies the predetermined destinations. Please note the following regarding this communication platform: • The RTU may not be aware if information has been delivered to a destination. • There are four links in the communication chain, which translates into four possibilities for failure. • The additional internet links underscore the importance of choosing a service provider who offers extensive protection from cyberattack. • Parallel message delivery enables simultaneous communication between multiple devices. • The internet is another link that interacts with the system. Now that we have defined the RTU functions and outlined the communication platforms, it is time to identify and prioritize the key variables from which a decision can be made.
- Let’s examine the RTU functions and related platform capabilities by looking at each of these questions in detail. We have selected these questions because of the impact technical differences have in these areas. The goal is to empower you to make an informed decision based on the combination that best fits various business objectives and application requirements. We are trying to prevent surprises and disappointments after purchase.
- “ How critical is the process that you are monitoring?” With this question, you are determining the quality of information transfer and the frequency required. More critical processes require higher quality information exchange. Fewer critical processes can tolerate limited communications and limited functionality, such as the type that are provided with cellular control channel wireless. This chart shows that landline and cellular wireless are very similar in reliability, function and alarm notification. The cellular control channel method, however, shows that we have several more communications links operated by different companies. These five links increase the chances of delivery failure. Small amounts of downtime with each link accumulate for the total system. It is important to verify that the vendor you choose requires verification of alarm notification by the RTU. Also, this method restricts the number of data packets per day and each packet is limited in size. The impact here is that you have a limit on the total number of alarms per day, control functions, and data points. The control channel method allows access to the alarm data from any location using a standard browser on a PC. Also, the system shows the user all the alarms for all stations. This is true with certain RTU’s as well.
- Continuing with the question “How critical is the process that you are monitoring?”— again, the landline and cellular methods are similar. When considering reporting by exception and inquiries on demand, landline and cellular are unrestricted, while the cellular control channel method has limits on the frequency, number and size of communications. The watchdog feature is a function of the RTU and communication system monitoring itself and sends notification when there is a failure. This is an optional function with standard RTU’s using landline or cellular. However, it is a standard feature with the cellular control channel method. Landline is a time-proven, standardized communication technology. Cellular is less standardized, and has been going through changes such as analog to digital and “digital this to digital that,” but is still a time-proven system. The control channel method has technologies and companies that are new and still building their businesses. Only a few companies are involved in cellular control channel equipment. RTU’s made for one will not work with any others. Overall, the following is true: Users with processes that might experience multiple failures or need multiple control functions per day will want to use landline or cellular. Users with less critical processes that experience a few failures in a day with a limited number of control commands per day will be satisfied with the control channel method. Users needing any serious event or data logging will want to use landline or cellular.
- “ How frequently do you need to transmit data, and at what volume?” A large number of monitored inputs, such as an RTU connected to PLC network system, have the potential for more frequent alarms. Also, a large number of monitored analog inputs with a requirement for data logging will require a significant volume of data to be transmitted. These applications will use landline or cellular. Transmitting information and data has its cost. We will cover more on this subject when discussing budget concerns. However, the impact here is different with each communication platform: Landline is fairly fixed regardless of volume. Cellular can be purchased under a number of programs, but usually more time costs more money. With the cellular control channel method, the communication limits keep the volume under one of the service levels that can be purchased.
- “ Does your application require extensive data logging?” Again, all functions of an RTU contribute to data transfer. This includes alarm notification, PLC annunciation and any control functions. However, simple data logging of just a few inputs will increase data transfer significantly. The cellular control channel is extremely limited here at this time. If the remote RTU is data logging at a frequent sampling rate and a moderate number of inputs are required, landline and maybe cellular are required for this function. Cellular is improving in this area and will be adequate in all areas soon. If the application requires extensive data logging, then… … use landline where possible … use cellular if you have to … at this time, never use the control channel
- “ What is your budget?” As we stated earlier, landline service is a fixed monthly cost, and as we have seen it can handle the largest amount of data transfer. Quality standards and rates are protected by the FCC. If you have a landline at the facility, it is also the lowest installation cost. However, if the unattended equipment is not where landline service is easily reached, the installation costs can be very high and often prohibitive. Cellular wireless has flat monthly airtime charges after the monthly usage has been determined. Cellular monthly rates are also controlled by the FCC, but plans from the cellular carriers vary with each marketing promotion. In addition to the RTU cost, there is a cost for the cellular hardware. Cellular control channel wireless has several areas of fees, which may vary by service provider: The installation costs are the start-up costs for the user area in the manufacturer’s Web site for each RTU so they can gain secure access to their RTU information The monthly charges for the control channel consist of the monthly service charge on the RTU If the user does not already have internet access, there will be additional monthly fees for that service There may be an annual fee for the manufacturer’s Web hosting service You can also experience surcharges for excessive usage Different vendors package these costs in different ways. None of the quality standards and fees is protected by the FCC.
- “ How frequently and easily do you want to access your data?” This is different from the data transmission and volume question. Here we are discussing alarm notification, reports by exception, and your inquiries on demand to the RTU. This traffic may not occur on a routine basis. In the event of a storm or some large equipment failure, however, you are receiving an unusual amount of traffic concerning alarms and/or you are now tracking certain parameters more frequently than normal. With landline and cellular you are basically unlimited and free to perform these actions at will. You might get a larger cellular bill that month, but otherwise you are unrestricted. The cellular control channel platform, on the other hand, is limited for all these functions. You have a limited number of alarm calls from the RTU, and there are special restrictions regarding the frequent polling. You may perform unlimited access to the Web site, but the information is updated on a limited schedule. If you have periods of heavy traffic in this manner you are better off with landline or cellular. If the operating conditions are always stable and consistent you will be happy with the cellular control channel platform.
- “ Where is the RTU located?” Two factors are to be considered on this subject: the physical location possible relocations Landlines are available just about wherever there are people located in a group. However, when the unattended equipment resides at a remote location, then a landline is costly to install. Cellular wireless and cellular control channel are available in 98% of North America. Some fringe areas may require a different antenna to boost the signal strength. This helps us reach those sites where landlines are not practical. However, relocating an RTU for each service is different. Relocating an RTU from one landline connection to another is easy and instant, while cellular wireless may require a new account to be set up to avoid roaming charges or cellular service setup for nationwide service. With either of these it is possible to switch providers. Cellular control channel again has some other restrictions: An individual account is required from the equipment reseller per device. When relocating, reprogramming the system identifier, or SID, will be necessary most of the time. Switching providers is not possible without replacing the RTU’s and completely setting up a whole new system.
- “ How long will you require this service?” RTU equipment is independent of landlines and cellular wireless service. Both services consist of time-proven, reliable communication technologies and they are going to remain in place for the foreseeable future. The cellular control channel platform has RTU’s made only for that manufacturer’s service. If that manufacturer goes out of business, the equipment is useless. Furthermore, this service depends on the AMPS cellular service which will eventually be dropped by all cellular carriers. By FCC permission this AMPS service may be dropped starting in 2007. While efforts may be made to switch to a newer technology, it will most certainly require new RTU hardware when the existing AMPS sunset occurs.
- In summary, we’ve determined the following: Landline is the most mature method, offering time-proven reliability and flexibility, and a full range of features. If the RTU is monitoring a critical process that requires frequent interrogation of information, extensive data logging, or alarm notification, then landline is the most logical choice. Cellular wireless systems offer virtually all of the functionality of landline technology, with data transmission subject to your local service provider’s capabilities. As a cellular-based system, however, there are more opportunities for signal interference. Also, additional costs may be incurred for extensive data logging, alarm notification, or calls to the unit. Cellular control channel offers a convenient, cost-effective alternative to other limited systems. If the RTU is monitoring a process that does not require the sum total of the frequent interrogation of information, extensive data logging, and alarm notification, then the cellular control channel method is a viable option. However, if the cellular control channel method is selected, make certain there is a plan in place for changing service providers and related equipment in case your provider decides to stop offering the service after the sunset period in 2007.
- Our intent has been to provide you with the information you need to choose the best communication platform for your application. If you feel you need additional help making this decision, RACO has the talent and expertise to help you. Make us your first choice.