The HCU-400 Control chassis provides local data storage, intelligence, and the communications interface point. The VME-based chassis contains 4 available slots (HCU400) for monitoring modules (i.e. RPM1000 modules). This provides a customizable and scaleable system platform from which to build. This approach allows the user to designate the number and type of monitoring modules desired now, and the ability to expand with additional monitoring modules as user needs and networks develop.