SCADA System Design
We choose the instruments, controllers, radios and operator software for each site and design how they connect, from the I/O count and power supply to the radio path back to the control center. The design starts from what operators need to see and control, not from a standard package.
Hardware and Application Engineering
Our project work includes PLC programming, RTU integration, control panel engineering, cellular and radio communications, VTScada and Ignition application development, and site installation coordination.
GDS is a Registered Integrator in the Inductive Automation Integrator Program. Our team includes an Ignition Core Certified engineer. Explore our HMI development and modernization work.
Commissioning and Operator Training
Test procedures, site changeovers, operator training, and documentation are planned as part of the project scope. Panel drawings, application documentation, and operating instructions give the people maintaining the system a record of how it was built and how it works.
Common Questions
- Can GDS work alongside our installer or software integrator?
- Yes. Our Magna Water District scope included hardware and communications integration through I-D Electric, with a separate software integrator. We define responsibility for drawings, equipment, programming, installation and testing at the outset so the interfaces between teams are clear.
- What should we provide when requesting an engineering scope?
- Existing drawings, controller and HMI versions, site lists, I/O counts and the operating problem are useful starting points. Include owner standards, required dates and any restrictions on outages or remote access. We can identify missing information during the initial review.
- Which deliverables should be agreed before work begins?
- The scope should identify drawings, controller and HMI application files, communication settings, test records, operator documentation and training. It should also state who supplies software licenses and who maintains the system after handover.
- What is checked during acceptance testing?
- Testing follows the approved control narrative and site requirements. Typical checks include I/O scaling, commands and feedback, permissives, alarm priorities, communications loss, recovery after power interruption, and operator access. The test record should show exceptions and how they were resolved.