The document discusses Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. It defines SCADA as a system that gathers data from widely distributed field devices and processes, and allows limited control of remote facilities from a central location. The document outlines the basic components and terminology of SCADA systems, including field devices, remote terminal units (RTU), the master terminal unit (MTU), and communications equipment. It also provides examples of common SCADA applications and historical developments in SCADA technology.