The Simatic S5 product line is programmed by the software Step5.Siemens created their own software for their products. Siemens developed four different product lines so far:Įvery automation system needs a program to control a machine. Simatic connects “ Siemens” and “Auto matic” in one word. The name Simatic is a registered trademark of the company Siemens, since 1958.
That means that an electrical signal at the output goes by wire to the machine and switches on the light. If the program says that it´s time to switch on the light in the machine, the right output of the Simatic unit will be set. Examples for actuators are a motor, a heater or a light. They cause a wanted motion, action or forming. Now the program will switch off the motor.įrom the Simatic to the machine For example, if the temperature of the motor is too high, the program has to know it. This is very important, because now the program can perform the next correct step in its sequence. So the program knows what´s going on in the machine. The sensors give out an electrical signal, each signal goes by wire on an input of the Simatic unit. All this information is necessary for the program.
For example, how fast the motor rotates, what the temperature is or when the current action is completed. A sensor gives information about different situations in the machine. There are basically two ways of communication:įrom the machine to the Simatic “Low” signal: temperature is still allowed.“High” signal: temperature exceeded the limit.Finally these signals are important if an action in the machine happens or not.Įxample for different signals at the output to a motor:Įxample for different signals at the input coming from a thermometer in the machine: These are different electrical definitions. As the case may be the inputs and outputs are set on a “High” signal or on a “Low” signal by the program. That makes a communication between the Simatic and any machine possible. Both are connected by electrical wires with the machine. The running program on the Simatic controls these inputs and outputs. The Simatic also has some inputs and outputs. Simatic is similar to a digital computer which can store and run programs.