Basic Features of Distributed Control Systems (DCS)

In distributed control system, each process has its own separate controller located at the site. These local controllers are interconnected via a local area network so that all controllers on the network can be monitored or reprogrammed from a single supervisory computer. Once programmed, each process is essentially operating independently.

Distributed control systems provides a more robust and safe system because all the processes will continue to function even if the supervisory computer or network goes down.

Related: Why you should replace your Old DCS systems with Modern ones

Distributed control systems are commonly used in chemical and petrochemical plants, nuclear plants, water treatment plants, food processing, etc.