This document discusses industrial automation using programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems. It defines automation as using machines to control processes and minimize human intervention. Industrial automation aims to increase mass production, save human effort, improve quality, and increase accuracy and consistency. Types of industrial automation include process automation for things like water treatment, building automation for car parking and doors, and scientific automation for processes like satellite launches. The document outlines examples of automated systems and describes common field devices used for inputs like sensors and outputs like motors. It provides an overview of SCADA systems and their typical architecture in industries like electric power.