DNP3 Tutorial

DNP3 (Distributed Network Protocol) is a set of communications protocols. It plays an important role in SCADA (Site Control and Data Acquisition) systems, where it is used for communications between system components. The protocol was specifically developed for facilitating communication between data acquisition and control devices.

DNP3 Provides Multiplexing, Data Fragmentation, and More
DNP3 is a layer 2 protocol. This means that is provides for multiplexing, data fragmentation, error checking, link control, and prioritization. It also provides layer 2 addressing services for user data.

DNP3 enables the various devices in process automation systems to communicate. The DNP3 protocol is widely used in the electrical and water industries by utility companies. It is also possible for DNP3 to be utilized in other areas, though it is not as common.

DNP3 Protocol Facilitates SCADA Communications
SCADA systems use the DNP3 protocol for communications between various system components. The DNP3 protocol provides for communication between the SCADA system master, the system’s RTU’s (Remote Terminal Units), and IED’s (Intelligent Electronic Devices).

DNP3 was developed to meet the need for a standard communications protocol that would allow for communication between SCADA system components developed by differing vendors. Using IEC 60870-5 as a base, DNP3 was created as an open protocol for use in these situations. This protocol was available for immediate implementation within SCADA networks, and catered to the specifications laid out by North American organizations.

DNP3 Provides Communications Reliability for Utilities
DNP3 ensures the reliability of communications within the harsh environments of electrical and water utilities. The protocol is able to avoid being distorted by EMI, legacy system components, and poor transmission due to DNP3’s specifically designed communications format. Although the protocol was created with reliability in mind, DNP3 is not secured, an important consideration during SCADA planning.

You can protect your important DNP3 communications and your SCADA system with a network alarm monitoring system. The most advanced alarm masters can monitor in the DNP3 protocol, enabling you to receive your critical DNP3 and other protocol alarms in a single, convenient browser window. Sending you alarm notifications via email or page, your alarm master will inform you instantly if there is a problem with operation.

Make T/Mon NOC Your DNP3 SCADA Master
T/Mon can serve as your DNP3 SCADA master using the T/Mon DNP3 software module. With this module to monitor your DNP3 communications, you will be able to enjoy all the benefits of the advanced T/Mon alarm master. You will gain peace of mind knowing that your operations are being monitored on an ultra-reliable platform.

T/Mon will provide you with DNP3 alarm notifications via pager, email, or cell phone, instantly informing you when you encounter a problem with your DNP3 communications. These alarm notifications will provide you with important alarm details. This will enable you to get your network back online as quickly as possible, minimizing your lost revenues due to network downtime.

T/Mon Provides for Scheduling of DNP3 Alarm Notifications
With T/Mon, you can direct your DNP3 alarm notifications according to the appropriate technicians using alarm scheduling. This will provide the relevant alarm information to scheduled technicians, enabling them to quickly get to work on bringing your network back online. T/Mon will also group these DNP3 alarms in it’s single, convenient browser window, allowing your network operator to view standing alarms grouped by user-specified criteria such as severity, geographic location, and more.

Don’t leave your mission-critical DNP3 communications unmonitored. Deploy a T/Mon NOC with the DNP3 software module, and maximize your revenues by providing your customers the reliable service they demand, reducing your customer churn.

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Related Products:
T/Mon NOC

Related Topics:
DNP3 Protocol
DNP3 Communications
DNP3 SCADA

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