Users benefit from the single programming interface by saving time in
engineering development, installation and maintenance. This compact
controller class, which includes the new S7-1200 controller, HMI Basic
Panels, and the Step 7 Basic software, provides an integrated
automation solution suited to the needs of OEMs, integrators and
end-users.

The
S7-1200 has built-in Ethernet, high speed motion control I/O and
onboard analog I/O, with HMI panel connectivity providing integrated
automation for small control systems. The Simatic Step 7 Basic
programming software offers the unique capability of one user program
to be maintained instead of multiple programs for controller, HMI and
networking configuration, as found in traditional automation systems.

Tight
integration between small controllers, HMI panels and programming
software satisfies market demand for flexible control systems that can
perform multiple operations and require minimal changeovers. Raj Batra,
vice president, Automation and Motion Division, Siemens Energy &
Automation, says, ‚“The S7-1200 and Step 7 Basic engineering software
form the first of a new breed of compact controllers that integrate the
controller, HMI and networking functionalities with one program,
enabling users to focus on developing machine or system designs – their
core intellectual property that keeps them competitive.‚”

Controller, HMI, software options

The
S7-1200 compact controller has a variety of I/O and power supply
options with combinations of VAC- or VDC-supplied units or with
combinations of DC or Relay I/O. Expansion I/O and specialty modules
can be DIN rail or panel mounted, both without an additional base or
rack, reducing electrical enclosure space and cost. Expansion modules
are available in 8-, 16- and 32-point input, output and combination
models supporting DC, Relay and Analog I/O signals. New signal boards
available in 4-channel digital or 1-channel analog I/O snap into the
front of the S7-1200 controller enabling I/O upgrades without consuming
additional enclosure space. This scalable design can accommodate
applications from 10 I/O up to a maximum full expansion of 284 I/O,
with user software program transparency throughout its range.

The
S7-1200 also includes an integrated 10/100Mbit Ethernet communications
port with PROFINET protocol support for programming, HMI/SCADA
connectivity, or PLC-to-PLC networking. Traditional controllers often
require a separate add-on module for Ethernet communication which adds
more cost and consumes more installation space without providing any
additional I/O connections.

Simatic Step 7 Basic software
with the integrated WinCC Basic for visualization tasks offers the
unique capability of a single programming software with a single user
program for configuring the S7-1200 and SIMATIC HMI Basic Panels. 
Users will save valuable engineering time and money with intuitive
task-oriented editors designed with a high degree of user-friendliness
and efficiency for engineering.

For more information on the Simatic S7-1200 Compact Controller, please click here.