Match each controller or automation term to its most accurate description.
Drag a concept onto its matching description — or click a concept then click the description.
Central platform used to coordinate policy and management
Application-facing interface used to communicate with the controller
Lightweight structured data format used in API payloads
Secure transport commonly used for API communication
⚠ Common exam trap
Do not confuse SCADA with DCS; SCADA is for geographically dispersed assets, while DCS is for localized plant control. PLCs are basic controllers; RTUs are remote interfaces often used in SCADA systems.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
PLC: Industrial computer used for automation of electromechanical processes
PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is an industrial computer for automating electromechanical processes. SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is a system for remote monitoring and control. DCS (Distributed Control System) controls production processes within a plant. RTU (Remote Terminal Unit) interfaces with sensors and actuators in remote locations. All given pairings are correct.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
PLC: Industrial computer used for automation of electromechanical processes
Why this is correct
A PLC is a ruggedized industrial computer that performs deterministic, real-time control of discrete and analog I/O using programs such as ladder logic or structured text. It is purpose-built to replace hard-wired relay logic, automating electromechanical processes like conveyor systems, packaging machines, and robotic cells. Its fast scan cycles, extensive I/O modules, and resistance to temperature, vibration, and electrical noise make it the standard controller for machine-level automation.
SCADA: System for remote monitoring and control of industrial processes
Why this is correct
SCADA is a supervisory control and data acquisition architecture, not a single physical device, that centralizes monitoring and control over geographically dispersed industrial processes such as power grids, pipelines, and water distribution. It polls remote field devices for telemetry, presents the data to human operators, and issues setpoint or command changes from a central host. The defining trait is wide-area remote supervision rather than tightly coupled, plant-wide real-time control.
DCS: System that controls production processes in a plant
Why this is correct
A DCS is designed for continuous, complex production processes that remain within a single plant or facility, such as oil refining, chemical processing, or power generation. It distributes control functions among multiple local controllers that are tightly integrated with the plant's sensors and final control elements, enabling high-availability, deterministic process control. Its emphasis on plant-internal control loops and process redundancy is what makes it distinct from a wide-area SCADA system.
RTU: Device that interfaces with sensors and actuators in remote locations
Why this is correct
An RTU is a field-mounted device stationed at a remote site where it directly interfaces with sensors and actuators, converting physical quantities into digital telemetry and accepting remote commands. It is designed for low-power, unattended operation and communicates with a central SCADA master over serial or IP-based telemetry links using protocols like Modbus, DNP3, or IEC 60870-5. Because communication to the master may be intermittent, an RTU can also execute simple local control logic to keep a process safe during outages.
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