In a context where remote supervision, cybersecurity and interoperability have become key requirements, the integration of straton’s IEC 60870-104 stack into a secure remote control architecture is a particularly effective and sustainable solution.
This achievement is based on a distributed infrastructure combining SENECA equipment and straton software, providing reliable bidirectional communication between the field and COPA-DATA’s SCADA supervision.
A distributed VPN architecture for remote control
The infrastructure is based on a secure VPN architecture, at the heart of which is the VPNBOX2, a SENECA device designed to provide an encrypted and secure connection on a single LAN network. Several Z-PASS-2-RT-E units are connected to this VPNBOX2, providing both programmable logic controller and VPN router functions.
Each Z-PASS-2-RT-E executes automation logic
developed with straton, enabling the acquisition and processing of field data from:
- R203 network analyzers
- R-8AI-8DIDO and R-4AO-8DIDO analogue and digital I/O modules via the Modbus TCP/IP
This architecture allows for the supervision of levels, logic states and electrical quantities, while remotely controlling analogue and digital outputs.
straton at the heart of IEC 60870-104 communication
Communication with the zenon SCADA supervision system (COPA-DATA) is provided via the IEC 60870-104 protocol, routed securely through the VPN.
The flexibility and configurability of straton’s IEC 60870-104 stack has enabled:
- Precise management of all required TIDs
- Complete mappings
- A high level of granularity of the data exchanged
The result is reliable bidirectional communication between the field and supervision, integrating:
- Telemetry
- Remote control
- Remote diagnostics
- Real-time adjustments
- Alarm management
all in an encrypted and secure environment.
A robust, scalable solution that is 100% remotely manageable
Thanks to the stability of the Straton stack and its native integration with the Z-PASS-2-RT-E, the entire system benefits from:
- Fast response times
- Excellent robustness
- High scalability
- Significant reduction in on-site interventions
The solution also enables comprehensive remote support for field equipment (R203 meters, R Line range I/O modules), facilitating maintenance and operation of installations.
By combining PLC and VPN router functions in a single device, Z-PASS greatly simplifies installation architecture and eliminates the need for external routers or gateways.
Concrete customer benefits
This architecture offers major operational advantages:
- Optimal integration of the field with SCADA straton and zenon belong to the COPADATA group, interoperability is native and seamless.
- Single access point for remote control, assistance and diagnostics.
- Reduced downtime thanks to immediate remote intervention.
- Lower maintenance costs.
- Enhanced security: all communications are transmitted via an encrypted VPN.
- Simplification of architecture by eliminating external network equipment.
A standard, open and sustainable approach
Based on a standard, recognized and interoperable protocol such as IEC 60870-104, the straton-based solution guarantees reliability, traceability and compatibility with current and future supervision systems. It avoids the use of proprietary solutions that are not very scalable, while meeting modern cybersecurity and remote maintenance requirements.
Testimony
“SENECA adopts straton technology for compliance with IEC 60870-5-104 and IEC 61850 protocols in its remote control solutions. The flexibility of the stack and the quality of technical support have enabled fast integration into its IIoT devices, ensuring interoperability and reduced development times, with concrete added value deriving from full compliance with protocol communication standards, which ensures reliability and interoperability with future systems.” Filippo Toschetti, Product Specialist & Service Support SENECA
With straton, secure remote control becomes simpler, more efficient and more sustainable.
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