Partnership strengthens Atlas OT's ability to deliver open, software-defined industrial automation solutions that give manufacturers and critical infrastructure operators greater flexibility, interoperability, and long-term operational resilience. 

CENTENNIAL, CO. — Atlas OT, a process-focused Master System Integrator specializing in industrial automation and operational technology (OT) solutions, today announced its official partnership with Schneider Electric as a Certified Alliance Partner and has earned certification in EcoStruxure™ Automation Expert (EAE). This achievement makes Atlas OT the only certified EcoStruxure Automation Expert Alliance Partner in the Rocky Mountain Region, reinforcing the company's commitment to delivering innovative, future-ready automation solutions that place customer processes, not proprietary hardware, at the center of every project.

Industrial automation is entering a new era.

Manufacturers, utilities, and critical infrastructure operators are facing growing demands to increase productivity, strengthen cybersecurity, improve operational resilience, and modernize aging control systems, all while protecting existing investments.

Meeting these challenges requires more than replacing hardware. It requires a new approach to automation.

EcoStruxure™ Automation Expert (EAE) is Schneider Electric's next-generation industrial automation platform built on the principles of open, software-defined automation.

Unlike traditional control systems that tightly couple automation software to specific PLC hardware, EAE separates software applications from the underlying control hardware. This hardware-agnostic architecture allows automation applications to be developed, deployed, and maintained independently of the physical controller.

The result is greater engineering flexibility, easier modernization, improved interoperability, and reduced vendor lock-in.

Atlas OT has always approached industrial automation differently.

As a Process-Focused Master System Integrator, the company designs automation solutions around each customer's operational objectives rather than around a single manufacturer's technology platform.

Whether supporting water and wastewater facilities, manufacturing plants, food and beverage processors, renewable energy producers, mining operations, or other industrial environments, Atlas OT begins every project by understanding the process.

That philosophy aligns perfectly with EcoStruxure Automation Expert.

The combination of Atlas OT's systems integration expertise and Schneider Electric's software-defined automation platform provides customers with significant operational advantages, including:

• Greater flexibility through hardware-independent automation architecture

• Reduced vendor lock-in with open, interoperable technologies

• Simplified modernization of existing automation systems

• Reusable software applications that reduce engineering time

• Improved lifecycle management for automation assets

• Scalable architectures that support future expansion

• Lower total cost of ownership through greater long-term maintainability

As the only certified Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Automation Expert Alliance Partner in the Rocky Mountain Region, Atlas OT is uniquely positioned to support organizations seeking a more flexible and future-ready approach to industrial automation.

The partnership also expands Atlas OT's access to Schneider Electric's engineering resources, technical training, and collaborative innovation, enabling the company to deliver advanced automation solutions backed by one of the world's leading industrial technology providers.

Combined with Atlas OT's expertise in:

• Industrial Automation

• SCADA Systems

• PLC Programming

• Industrial Networking

• OT Cybersecurity

• UL 508A Control Panel Fabrication

• Digital Transformation

The future of industrial automation is built on openness, interoperability, and flexibility.

As organizations continue modernizing their operations, software-defined automation will play a critical role in reducing engineering complexity, protecting technology investments, and enabling smarter, more resilient industrial systems.

Atlas OT's partnership with Schneider Electric represents another step toward delivering that future.

Atlas OT is a process-focused Master System Integrator headquartered in Centennial, Colorado, specializing in industrial automation, SCADA, PLC programming, operational technology (OT), industrial cybersecurity, networking, UL 508A control panel fabrication, and digital transformation solutions. Atlas OT partners with manufacturers, utilities, and critical infrastructure organizations to design, integrate, and support automation systems that improve operational performance, reliability, and long-term business value.

Ready to Explore Open Industrial Automation?  

Whether you're planning a greenfield project, modernizing legacy control systems, or evaluating software-defined automation, Atlas OT can help you develop a future-ready automation strategy with Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure™ Automation Expert.

Contact Atlas OT today to learn how open automation can transform your operations.

A SCADA system is designed to collect data from sensors, PLCs, and remote field devices, process it, and present it in a usable format for operators. Unlike PLCs, which focus on localized control tasks, SCADA provides a supervisory layer, monitoring the entire process and enabling operators to respond to abnormal conditions in real time. 

Historically, SCADA systems emerged as industries transitioned from manual monitoring to automated processes. Early systems relied on simple relay logic and basic data collection, but modern SCADA integrates advanced software, networking, and analytics to provide a comprehensive view of operations. 

SCADA plays a crucial role in industrial monitoring and telemetry systems. For example, in an energy utility, SCADA monitors power generation, voltage, and load distribution, while PLCs automate switchgear and generator control. Similarly, in water treatment plants, SCADA monitors chemical dosing and flow rates, while PLCs control pumps and valves. 

A useful analogy is to think of SCADA as a “control tower” and PLCs as the “pilots” executing commands. The control tower provides situational awareness, trends, and alerts, while pilots (PLCs) act on instructions in real time. By integrating SCADA with reliable PLCs from OEMs such as Rockwell Automation, Siemens, Phoenix Contact, and Schneider Electric, industries can maintain continuous operations, reduce downtime, and ensure regulatory compliance. 

SCADA is also increasingly integrated with IIoT devices, cloud platforms, and advanced analytics, enabling predictive maintenance and smart industrial operations. This evolution underscores the importance of understanding both the architecture and components of SCADA systems. 

1. Sensors and Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) 
   Sensors detect parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow, and voltage. RTUs gather this data, digitize it, and transmit it to SCADA servers. Modern sensors often integrate with PLCs to ensure real-time responsiveness. OEM sensors paired with PLCs from Siemens, Phoenix Contact, or Rockwell Automation ensure accurate readings and system reliability. 
2. PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) 
   PLCs are the workhorses of automation. They execute pre-programmed logic, controlling machinery, pumps, motors, and valves. PLCs from Rockwell Automation (Allen-Bradley series), Siemens (S7 series), Phoenix Contact (PLCnext), and Schneider Electric (Modicon) are widely used due to their durability, compatibility, and flexibility. Ladder logic, function block programming, and real-time execution ensure that PLCs respond immediately to SCADA commands. 
3. Communication Networks 
   PLCs, RTUs, and sensors communicate with SCADA servers through wired or wireless networks. Protocols like Modbus TCP/IP, OPC UA, and DNP3 enable reliable data transmission, ensuring SCADA can monitor multiple sites simultaneously. Network reliability and latency are critical considerations, especially for time-sensitive processes. 
4. SCADA Servers and Databases 
   SCADA servers aggregate data from PLCs, RTUs, and sensors. Data is stored in databases for trend analysis, historical review, and predictive analytics. Modern SCADA systems often incorporate cloud storage and remote monitoring capabilities, expanding visibility across distributed operations. 
5. Human-Machine Interface (HMI) 
   HMIs provide operators with a visual representation of processes. Dashboards, charts, alarms, and controls allow real-time monitoring and intervention. OEM HMI solutions like Siemens WinCC, Rockwell FactoryTalk View, and Schneider Vijeo Designer ensure seamless integration with PLCs and SCADA servers, providing both reliability and familiarity for operators. 

Example Scenario: 

A chemical plant may use Siemens S7 PLCs to manage reactor temperatures and valve positions. The SCADA system collects sensor data and displays it on an HMI. When a reactor exceeds a threshold temperature, SCADA triggers an alert, allowing operators to intervene immediately, while the PLC automatically executes safety shutdown procedures. 

By combining these components, SCADA systems offer operators comprehensive supervision, while PLCs execute precise, real-time control. The integration of OEM PLCs ensures consistency, interoperability, and reliability across industrial environments. 

Breaking down SCADA components clarifies how each piece contributes to efficient industrial operations: 

• HMI vs SCADA: HMIs provide the operator interface, displaying real-time data and alarms. SCADA oversees data collection, analysis, and supervisory control. HMI dashboards differ among OEMs but are designed for clarity and quick response. 

• PLCs: PLCs perform local control, executing ladder logic, function blocks, and safety routines. High-quality PLCs from Rockwell Automation, Siemens, Phoenix Contact, and Schneider Electric provide reliability, robustness, and compatibility with SCADA systems. 

• Sensors and Actuators: Sensors gather operational data, while actuators execute commands from PLCs. Together, they bridge the digital SCADA system with the physical process. 

• Networking Protocols: Communication protocols like Modbus, OPC UA, and DNP3 ensure seamless, secure data flow between devices and servers. Efficient networking prevents delays and maintains system responsiveness. 

SCADA and PLCs are widely deployed across industries: 

1. Manufacturing 
   Production lines rely on SCADA for monitoring and PLCs for controlling machinery, robotic arms, and quality checks. OEM PLCs, such as Rockwell Allen-Bradley, ensure precise automation, while SCADA provides insights into productivity, downtime, and trends. 
2. Utilities 
   Power generation and water treatment plants depend on SCADA to monitor voltage, flow, chemical dosing, and pump operation. PLCs automate valves, motors, and safety equipment. For example, Siemens S7 PLCs manage turbine controls in a hydroelectric plant while SCADA monitors performance across multiple facilities. 
3. Oil, Gas, and Chemical Industries 
   Pipelines, refineries, and chemical plants use SCADA for real-time monitoring of flow, pressure, and temperature. PLCs control critical equipment, ensuring process stability and safety. OEM PLCs from Phoenix Contact or Schneider Electric provide reliability and ease of integration with SCADA software. 
   
   

Benefits of SCADA + PLC Integration: 

• Real-time data acquisition and industrial monitoring. 

• Reduced downtime through predictive alerts. 

• Enhanced safety through automated responses. 

• Scalable operations for multi-site industrial processes. 
  
  

By leveraging SCADA and PLCs from trusted OEMs, industries can achieve operational efficiency while maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations. 

Implementing a SCADA + PLC system requires careful planning: 

Traditionally, PLC and SCADA architectures have been used for flexible, distributed, or discrete control applications, while Distributed Control Systems (DCS) were designed for tightly integrated, continuous process environments. Today, this distinction is increasingly blurred. Modern PLC platforms now support advanced process control, high availability, and integrated visualization, while DCS solutions adopt modular controllers, open networking, and IIoT connectivity. As a result, the choice between PLC + SCADA and DCS is increasingly driven by operational requirements, scalability, cybersecurity capabilities, and vendor ecosystem rather than strict architectural differences. 

• System Design: Evaluate the number of PLCs, sensors, and HMIs needed for coverage. Ensure network bandwidth and latency support real-time monitoring. 

• Security: Protect SCADA and PLC networks from cyber threats using firewalls, encryption, and access controls. Modern IIoT integration demands robust cybersecurity strategies. 

• Expert Guidance: Engaging experienced SCADA technology consultants or industrial automation engineers ensures proper integration and optimal performance. 

• Best Practices: Include redundancy for critical PLCs, regularly update software, monitor networks continuously, and ensure interoperability with OEM hardware/software. 
  
  

Example: In a chemical processing facility, Rockwell Automation PLCs manage emergency shutdown valves. SCADA continuously monitors process parameters. Cybersecurity measures prevent unauthorized access, while redundant PLCs maintain operations even during hardware failures. 

Selecting the right SCADA and PLC partner ensures a smooth implementation and long-term reliability. Key considerations include: 

• Familiarity with OEM PLCs and HMIs. 

• Experience in multi-site or large-scale industrial integration. 

• Expertise in SCADA monitoring, real-time analytics, and process optimization. 
  
  

For instance, Atlas OT provides expert guidance in integrating SCADA systems with OEM PLCs, ensuring operational efficiency, secure industrial automation, and scalable solutions. A capable partner simplifies deployment, reduces errors, and ensures continuous monitoring and control. 

SCADA systems, when paired with PLCs from reliable OEMs, are essential for modern industrial operations. They provide centralized monitoring, precise control, and actionable insights that improve productivity, safety, and decision-making. Industries including manufacturing, utilities, oil, gas, and chemicals rely on SCADA + PLC integration to maintain reliability, reduce downtime, and ensure regulatory compliance. 

By leveraging OEM hardware and advanced SCADA software, organizations can achieve efficient, scalable, and secure automation. Investing in proper system design, cybersecurity, and expert guidance ensures that SCADA and PLC systems operate seamlessly, unlocking the full potential of industrial automation for years to come. 

Energy monitoring in water and wastewater treatment plants is no longer a luxury—it's an operational necessity.

Rising electricity costs, aging infrastructure, and high-risk downtime are forcing utilities to rethink how they monitor and manage energy consumption. And while many industrial facilities can temporarily shut down to address a power issue, municipal water and wastewater systems cannot afford to stop.

At Atlas OT, we design and implement vendor-neutral control and monitoring systems that empower utilities to detect problems early, reduce unplanned costs, and optimize performance.

Electricity rates are increasing faster than inflation and economic growth, climbing at approximately 5% per year. Meanwhile, cooling loads and AI-related energy demands are also growing at similar rates. But generation capacity isn't keeping up—resulting in higher costs and tighter constraints.

For water and wastewater operators, this isn’t just an OPEX concern. It’s a mission-critical risk.

Unlike commercial or industrial buildings, where a power failure may result in temporary closures or mild inconvenience, utility systems must run 24/7. When something goes down—whether it's a transformer, a sewage pump, or a power feeder—the consequences can be:

- Environmental spills

- Public health hazards

- Regulatory violations

- Emergency response costs

And even with backup generation in place, failure events can spiral fast—especially when they start with undetected electrical issues.

Seemingly minor electrical imbalances can lead to catastrophic equipment damage:

- A 2% voltage imbalance across a three-phase motor can cause temperature spikes of 10°C.

- This rise in heat cuts motor winding insulation life by half.

- The same rule applies to transformer oils and other heat-sensitive components.

Rule of thumb: Every 10°C increase in operating temperature halves the lifespan of electrical insulation and oils.

Energy monitoring allows utilities to detect these anomalies before they become unplanned CAPEX events.

Even if you’re ready to spend, you might not be able to get what you need in time:

- Variable frequency drives (VFDs): 26-week lead times

- Large power transformers: up to 120 weeks

If a critical component fails without warning, a utility may be forced to rent backup systems—for months or even years—at enormous cost.

Energy monitoring gives you early visibility, helping you plan replacements proactively rather than reactively.

Many water and wastewater facilities pay 40% or more of their electricity budget on demand charges—even if those peak usage periods only last minutes.

Energy monitoring systems can be programmed to:

- Alert operators in real time if demand spikes occur during high-cost hours

- Predict billing impacts before they happen

- Optimize load sequencing to reduce demand-related penalties

Modern energy monitoring tools aren’t standalone—they integrate directly into your SCADA or OT system.

With a fully integrated setup, you can:

- Push alerts to operators via HMI, text, app, or call

- Trigger alarms visually on control panels

- Escalate alerts to management for revie

- Log historical data for compliance or engineering analysis

Quick, automated notification ensures issues are caught early and escalated fast—before they become outages, fines, or environmental disasters.

For water and wastewater utilities, the risk of inaction is far higher than the cost of prevention. Energy monitoring provides the visibility needed to:

✅ Extend asset lifespan

✅ Avoid unplanned CAPEX

✅ Cut energy-related OPEX

✅ Stay compliant with utility billing and regulatory limits

✅ Improve response times for operations and management

At Atlas OT, we help utilities modernize with vendor-neutral, SCADA-integrated energy monitoring systems that reduce downtime and increase return on investment.

1. Assess Your Current System

• Inventory all hardware components
• Document I/O configurations
• Review and catalog all programming logic

2. Define Future Requirements

• Evaluate potential increases in I/O count
• Assess communication needs with other systems
• Consider integration with SCADA or other higher-level systems

3. Choose the Right Replacement

• Compatibility with existing infrastructure
• Scalability for future expansion
• A common development environment for reduced commissioning time

4. Plan the Migration Strategy

• Complete system replacement
• Phased migration, potentially retaining some existing I/O
• Hot cutover to minimize production downtime

5. Utilize Available Tools and Resources

• Integrated Architecture Builder (IAB) for hardware migration planning
• Studio 5000 Logix Designer for programming
• Conversion tools for translating SLC ladder logic to Logix

6. Consider Professional Assistance

• Rockwell Automation Conversion and Migration Services
• Certified system integrators with experience in SLC to CompactLogix migrations - Like Atlas OT