One common project tree
for controller and HMI.
One common project view relieves you from handling separate files for each automation device. This makes sure that your whole project is always consistent after changes in any part of the project. Thus, high project quality is ensured. The project tree’s clearly arranged structure remains organized even with complex engineering projects. This is the basis for fast access to respective devices, folders or specific views that will assist you in engineering an automation task.
Intelligent drag and drop between
controller and HMI editors.
Symbols may be assigned to hardware with the drag and drop functionality, the same method can be used for connecting tags between the controllers and HMI. This enables the user to efficiently use both HMI and controller editors within one common engineering framework.
Clearly arranged graphical engineering.
A fast and intuitive configuration of devices and networks is ensured by the graphical editors. Connections can be easily configured by graphically connecting the individual devices with lines. In the online mode, visual diagnostics information is provided. For users, this means complex systems may be handled easily and efficiently and large projects are still clearly arranged.
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Clear and intuitive user interface for highest usability
The
software has a task-oriented user concept. All editors are embedded
into one common framework. The user may intuitively work with all
editors and change between them per mouse click. Common functions for
all editors enable the user to handle projects fast and efficiently. An
attractive graphical user interface and immediate system responsiveness
on a standard PC ensure ease of use and highest productivity from the
beginning of every project.
Higher project quality due to shared data handling and consistent symbolism
Automated data consistency ensures high project quality. Modified application data is automatically updated within the entire project. The cross-referencing concept ensures that variables are used consistently within all parts of the project and for various devices – they can thus be updated consistently. Symbols are automatically generated and assigned to respective I/Os. Data is only entered once, meaning that no additional address and data module handling is needed, which reduces the risk of errors.
Reuse of data due to a comprehensive library concept
Users may save various engineering elements such as blocks, tags, alarms, HMI screens, individual modules and entire stations in local and global libraries. These elements can be reused within the same project and in different projects as well. Data may be exchanged between separately configured systems with the help of the global library.
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Online test and diagnostics
Only a single mouse click is needed to go online, even if a project has not been loaded. Once online, the project’s online and offline status are immediately compared to detect possible differences. Differences or conflicts are clearly displayed, as different engineering modules can be opened in both online and offline status.
Adding technology objects
Adding technology objects is only a mouse click away as well. While adding new objects such as an axis or a PID controller, respective settings are displayed in the engineering system‘s “Add new object” window. The object may be named according to its function.
When fine-tuning various objects, the user is supported with a function description and may obtain additional information via help online. Once all information has been assigned, the new object is opened in the editor right away, if required.
Controller programming
Intelligent functions support the user and reduce errors. Configuration and modification of program modules is easy and efficient with only little information to put in. Frequently used commands can even be stored in a favorites list and the entire engineering modules can be copied and added to programs of other SIMATIC S7-1200 controllers; new symbols are automatically added. Changes can be made very quickly. With a single click, functional modules can be altered subsequently. The modules may be saved, even if not all symbols or I/Os
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have been assigned. The symbols can also be altered within the user program. It is also easy to configure and modify
connections.
Integrated HMI
SIMATIC STEP 7 Basic includes the powerful HMI software SIMATIC WinCC Basic for efficient programming and configuring of SIMATIC HMI Basic Panels. Efficient engineering means for example: direct use of controller process values in the HMI project using intelligent drag and drop functionality. HMI is part of the entire project which means that consistent HMI data is always guaranteed. Connections between HMI and PLC can be centrally defined. Several templates can be created and assigned to other screens. Completely integrated HMI functionality makes configuring the SIMATIC HMI Basic Panels very easy, highly powerful and efficient at the same time.
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