Run a nuclear power plant:
Yes, this is alarming – from Iran’s Bushehr plant – at least on sight. First, that they’d use Windows for this purpose – no ding meant on Microsoft, but it’s a job that requires a real time system like QNX or Wind River or even real time Linux, which doesn’t have export concerns. Second, that error message looks an awful lot like Windows 95, which is an antique.
Well, it’s possible that this is a real time system that simply has error messages that resemble those of Windows 95 or a Windows front end is being used to make the programming easier. And the IAEA is puttering around the plant, too, so international standards do apply at Bushehr.
But you really don’t want error messages popping up on a control room screen – you want a logging system that is closely monitored by trained eyes. Things like error messages can create doubt where none need exist. Bushehr needs a better IT department, we think.
Note: Read the comments on this post. Being on the interwebs and all, this could be a hoax, but we don’t think Bushehr is all that vulnerable to a hoax. Its existence alarms people of many perspectives, though IAEA involvement mitigates alarm by a fair degree. But take a look at the comments – lots of good pushback.
Comments
When I say 'we' I mean at my place of employement, the Advanced Test Reactor in Idaho.
It is highly unlikely that Bushehr has PC based control systems. While the photo could be from inside the plant, there is no evidence that the image is from a control or protection system.
My guess is we are looking at a display screen of a non-safety related process monitoring tool, or of a simulation. If I am correct then the version of the operating system on the computer generating the display is not in any way related to plant operation or reactor safety.
Let's not spread misinformation about nuclear plants - there is already enough of that going on!
And in any case, folks, these are the internets, where nothing should be taken as what it claims to be. My guess on this picture is that it's referring to a chemical plant, not a nuclear reactor, controlling (or simulating) streams like "Sulphuric Acid", "Polyacryl", "Coagulant", "Lime", etc. Read the labels.
Be alert. The world needs more lerts.
NEI please clarify this in the post. THnks.
anony-mouse (not Anonymous!!!)
Windows doesn't run their plant process computer or safe shutdown systems, but I still found it hilarious.
The Lungmen simulator is run off a Dell multiprocessor with a Windows OS.
However, at least one reactor vendor is offering a nuke with Windows OS for the operator interface.
I am the photographer of this picture and just found this post accidentally. I took this picture in Bushehr Power Plant. You may see more here:
http://webview.upi.com/?ss_c=bushehr%20kheirkhah&ss_nc=&ss_e=&ss_ds=o&s_date=02/25/2009&e_date
Best
Mo,
This system runs under Windows XP or under Windows 2003 server.