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An intelligent remote terminal unit (RTU) is a microprocessor-based RTU that can be programmed for a particular application or can be programmed for a custom application. This paper offers an overview of intelligent RTUs, including applications, advantages, features to look for in RTUs, and guidelines for deciding if an RTU should be used in a particular situation. Intelligent RTUs offer a number of advantages, including flexible control algorithms, high-speed calculations, overall site reliability, programmability, cost, distributed intelligence, and system configuration flexibility. Intelligent RTUs can be used to control pumps at wells, water tanks, booster stations, and in the distribution system; intelligent RTUs can function as primary controllers or for back-up purposes. The applicability of an RTU for a particular situation depends on the cost, technical design of the system, and future considerations. There are many features to look for in selecting an RTU; these are listed under the following headings: programming software, environmental specifications, technical specifications, and communications flexibility.