Citect has equipped the latest edition of CitectSCADA, V7.10, with Windows integrated security and support for Microsoft Windows Vista.
Windows security integration allows for easier maintenance of CitectSCADA as it is no longer necessary to create and maintain user accounts within the scada system. Instead, users of the system can simply use their network username and password to access the CitectSCADA.
“Previously, when a new employee started with a company, or a staff member left, user names would have to be created or disabled within the company network and then within the scada system,” explains Stephen Flannigan, global director, CitectSCADA. “Windows integrated security means that once an employee is added to, or removed from, the network they are also automatically added or removed from the scada system.”
Compliance can be easily implemented with the dual signature functionality which provides a second level of authorisation for actions. Some operations may have regulatory, environmental or other consequences, where processes dictate that a second level of authorisation is required before the action proceeds.
“A typical scenario where dual signatures can be used is when an operator needs to change a critical set point for an operation, but before the change is sent to the controller, the supervisor also has to enter a user name and password to confirm the action,” explains Flannigan.
According to Craig Resnick, research director, ARC Advisory Group, a key demand for manufacturers is for their solution providers to bring the benefits of standardisation to security.
“Security is viewed as a cost by most organisations, making it a good candidate for standardisation,” says Resnick. “Standardisation of security solutions can control costs, accelerate security programs and provide a framework for satisfying increasing regulation and compliance requirements.
“Products such as CitectSCADA V7.10 that leverage standardisation through Windows integrated security, also provide manufacturers with an economic benefit in terms of increased system availability by reducing security risks that can result in unscheduled downtime, equipment unavailability, disruption of processes, or even the destruction of plant equipment.”
CitectSCADA V7.10 introduces other features including new symbols, Microsoft Excel 2007 integration and graphics enhancements that make the package easier to configure, operate and maintain.
Enhancements have also been made to the custom alarm fields. This functionality can provide guidance on actions to be taken as a result of an alarm, more easily disable or temporarily shelve alarms for maintenance and improve the filtering capability.
For more information contact Niconette du Toit, Citect Africa, +27 (0)11 699 6600, [email protected], www.citect.com
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