A Distributed Control System (DCS) is a computerized control system for a process or plant that uses geographically distributed control loops throughout a factory, machine, or control area. It is a set of mechanical or electronic devices that regulate other devices or systems through the use of control loops. The DCS concept increases reliability and reduces installation costs by localizing control functions near the process plant, with remote monitoring and supervision. The DCS is different from centralized control systems, which use either discrete controllers located at a central control room or within a central computer.
DCSes are made up of control elements distributed throughout a plant or factory, including computers, sensors, and controllers. Each element serves a specific purpose, such as data collection, data storage, or data processing. The goal of a DCS is to control industrial processes to increase their safety, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.
DCSes first emerged in large, high-value, safety-critical process industries, and were attractive because the DCS manufacturer would supply both the local control level and central supervisory equipment as an integrated package, thus reducing design. Nowadays, DCSes are found in many industrial fields such as chemical plants, oil and gas industries, food processing units, nuclear power plants, water management systems, automobile industries, etc. .
