SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) combines software and hardware to create a control system that is frequently referred to as automation technology. The system receives data about processes and related equipment, which supervisors then use to control and optimizes operations. A SCADA system can be spread across different locations, sometimes over a wide geographical area, or contained within a single facility. SCADA is extensively used in the petrochemical industry, drinking water delivery systems, wastewater collection systems, pipelines and a range of other industrial processes.