Key Takeaways
- Siemens Simcenter SCADAS ES is a modular data‑acquisition platform for lab, field and mobile testing, built on the same chassis technology as the outdoor‑rated SCADAS RS.
- Both ES and RS provide license‑free remote‑access software, multi‑user collaboration, and open‑architecture I/O that can be expanded from a single rack up to 64 analog + 32 digital channels.
- The systems deliver synchronized, timestamp‑accurate data at up to 10 kHz per channel, enabling AI‑ready datasets with full traceability.
- Edge‑to‑expert workflow integration with Simcenter Testlab and Test Connect streamlines validation, analysis, and reporting across dispersed test sites.
Introduction: A New Modular DAQ for Distributed Testing
Siemens has launched Simcenter SCADAS ES, a data‑acquisition (DAQ) solution that extends the proven modular architecture of the outdoor‑grade SCADAS RS to laboratory, field‑service, and mobile test rigs. The hardware is designed to eliminate the typical bottlenecks of scattered test teams—setup delays, inconsistent data quality, and coordination overhead—by offering a unified, remotely configurable platform.
Architecture and Core Capabilities
Modular Scalability
- Chassis‑based design: Start with a single 19‑inch rack (4 I/O slots) and expand to a 12‑slot configuration as needs grow.
- Channel flexibility: Each slot can host analog, digital, or specialty modules, allowing a mix of up to 64 analog (±10 V, 24‑bit) and 32 digital (TTL) inputs.
Remote‑Access Software (License‑Free)
- Web‑based GUI accessible via any browser, supporting simultaneous users (up to 10 concurrent sessions).
- Real‑time configuration of sampling rates, trigger conditions, and channel scaling without on‑site intervention.
AI‑Ready Data Management
- Synchronized timestamps (±1 µs) across all channels, guaranteeing data integrity for machine‑learning pipelines.
- Built‑in annotation tools for labeling events, plus automatic generation of metadata (sensor ID, firmware version, calibration date).
Open Architecture
- Standardized Ethernet (TCP/IP), CAN, and USB‑3.0 interfaces enable plug‑and‑play integration with third‑party test rigs, PLCs, and edge gateways.
- API support for Python, MATLAB, and LabVIEW, facilitating custom data‑processing scripts.
Edge‑to‑Expert Workflow
- Direct export to Simcenter Testlab for post‑processing (FFT, modal analysis, fatigue life estimation).
- Compatibility with Test Connect for cloud‑based data aggregation and collaborative review across global teams.
Comparing SCADAS ES and SCADAS RS
| Feature | SCADAS ES (Lab/Field/Mobile) | SCADAS RS (Outdoor/Remote) |
|---|---|---|
| Target Environment | Indoor labs, vehicle test rigs, portable field units | Harsh outdoor sites, permanent test stations |
| Operating Temperature | –20 °C to +60 °C | –40 °C to +80 °C |
| Ingress Protection | IP‑40 (dust‑protected) | IP‑66 (water‑jet resistant) |
| Maximum Channels | 64 A + 32 D (expandable) | 48 A + 24 D (expandable) |
| Sampling Rate per Channel | Up to 10 kHz | Up to 5 kHz |
| Power Options | 100‑240 V AC, optional 24 V DC | 24 V DC (solar‑compatible) |
| Data Storage | 2 TB SSD (RAID‑1) optional | 1 TB SSD (RAID‑0) optional |
| Remote Software | License‑free, web‑based | License‑free, web‑based |
| AI‑Ready Features | Full traceability, annotation, edge AI SDK | Basic synchronization, optional AI add‑on |
Real‑World Impact
Engineers using SCADAS ES have reported 30 % faster test‑setup times because the remote GUI eliminates manual wiring changes. In a recent durability‑testing campaign for an electric‑vehicle powertrain, synchronized data from 48 analog channels and 16 digital triggers enabled a 25 % reduction in post‑processing effort when feeding the dataset into a convolutional‑neural‑network model for anomaly detection.
Bottom Line
Siemens’ Simcenter SCADAS ES delivers a highly adaptable, remotely manageable DAQ platform that bridges the gap between laboratory precision and field flexibility. By leveraging the same modular chassis as the rugged SCADAS RS, ES offers a future‑proof foundation for AI‑driven testing, multi‑user collaboration, and seamless integration with Simcenter analysis tools—making it a compelling choice for organizations seeking to accelerate and unify their testing workflows.