Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Utilize **VBA or Python scripting** within the SCADA environment to automate HMI behaviors and control tasks.
• Master **SQL querying** to read, write, and manage data in external relational databases.
• Design and implement secure bidirectional data transfer between the SCADA system and external databases.
• Develop scripts to handle complex batch tracking, recipe management, and parameter changes.
• Automate the generation and distribution of customized operational and compliance reports.
• Understand the security implications and best practices for direct **database connectivity** (e.g., connection strings, credentials).
• Create custom alarming and notification logic using scripting and external data sources.

• SCADA System Developers and Programmers
• Advanced HMI Configuration Specialists
• IT/OT Integration Engineers
• Database Administrators (DBAs) supporting SCADA systems
• Process Automation Engineers
• Control System Consultants focused on customization

• Hands-on lab exercises writing and debugging VBA/Python scripts to automate HMI actions and database queries.
• Group activity: designing a structured data exchange protocol for a new recipe management system.
• Individual exercises in developing and testing a SQL stored procedure for batch data logging.
• Case studies of customized SCADA solutions built using advanced scripting techniques.
• Discussions on the governance challenges of managing custom code alongside standard configuration.

Unit 1: Fundamentals of SCADA Scripting

• Overview of common scripting languages used in SCADA (e.g., VBA, Python, C#)
• Understanding the SCADA software's native object model and API access
• Writing and debugging client-side vs. server-side scripts

• Using scripting for automated tag value changes and conditional control logic
• Automating screen navigation and dynamic object visibility based on process state

Unit 2: Database Connectivity via SQL

• Review of advanced **SQL** commands (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE) for application integration
• Developing efficient stored procedures and views for SCADA data transactions

• Configuring **ODBC/OLEDB** connections for secure database access
• Implementing robust error handling for database connection failures in scripts

Unit 3: Advanced Data Exchange and Batches

• Designing secure methods for writing SCADA data to external systems (e.g., Lab Data, MES)
• Implementing read-only checks to retrieve recipe data and batch parameters from the database

• Using scripting to track and enforce batch sequencing and material consumption
• Automating the logging of **batch reports** and production summaries

Unit 4: Custom Reporting and Advanced Alarming

• Developing scripts to query historical data and format custom compliance or production reports
• Automating report generation, saving, and email distribution to stakeholders

• Creating specialized alarm logic based on external database values or complex calculations
• Generating customized notifications (e.g., SMS, push notifications) via scripting

Unit 5: Security and Best Practices

• Best practices for securing credentials and connection strings within scripts
• Implementing code version control and rollback procedures

• Optimizing script performance to avoid impacting the SCADA system's real-time performance
• Documenting custom scripts and their dependencies clearly for future maintenance