DCS Architecture – How It All Connects
Objective:
To help operators visualize and understand the layered structure of a Distributed Control System and how each component communicates to ensure safe, efficient plant operation.
Slide Content Structure
1. Title + Visual Overview
Title: “DCS Architecture: How It All Connects”
Visual: A layered diagram showing:
Field Level
Control Level
Supervisory Level
Enterprise Level
2. Layer Breakdown (with icons or animations)
| Layer | Components | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Field Level | Sensors, transmitters, actuators | Measure and control physical parameters (flow, temp, pressure) |
| Control Level | DCS controllers, I/O modules | Execute control logic (PID, interlocks) and communicate with field devices |
| Supervisory Level | Operator stations (HMI), engineering workstations | Monitor, visualize, and adjust process parameters |
| Enterprise Level | Historians, ERP, cloud systems | Data analytics, reporting, business integration |
3. Communication Paths
Arrows showing:
Fieldbus (e.g., HART, Profibus) between field and control
Ethernet or proprietary protocols between control and supervisory
OPC/Modbus TCP/IP to enterprise systems
4. Redundancy & Safety
Dual controllers, redundant power supplies, hot-swappable I/O
Integration with ESD (Emergency Shutdown) and F&G (Fire & Gas) systems
5. Operator’s Role
Monitor alarms and trends via HMI
Acknowledge and respond to abnormal conditions
Coordinate with maintenance and engineering teams