What distinct components are required for SCADA systems?

For a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, the required distinct components are crucial for effective monitoring and control of a facility or infrastructure. The correct answer points out the essential elements of a SCADA system, which includes Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), communications infrastructure, a master station, and a Human-Machine Interface (HMI).

RTUs serve as the interface between the field devices and the SCADA system, collecting data from sensors and sending it to the master station. The communications component is critical as it facilitates the transfer of data between the RTUs and the master station, ensuring that information flows smoothly and reliably. The master station is at the heart of the SCADA system, where data is processed, analyzed, and presented to operators. The HMI allows operators to interact with the SCADA system, providing them with visualizations of the data, alarms, and controls necessary to manage operations effectively.

Understanding these components is vital for anyone involved in water operations or other industrial processes using SCADA systems, as they ensure the system's reliability and functionality.