Siemens SIMATIC S7-1200 PLC series

RS Components (RS) is now shipping the latest Siemens SIMATIC S7-1200 CPU series, featuring upgraded firmware v4.1 that introduces performance improvements, extra features, and support for forthcoming fail-safe CPUs.

The v4.1 firmware has improved instruction processing for faster execution of PLC programs, while increased work memory makes extra resources available for program and user data.

Updated features include enhanced motion capabilities such as position control and support for analog or PROFIdrive drives. A PID control block allows temperature control in active heating or cooling systems, as well as interval measurements using high-speed counters. In addition, a built-in web server allows flexible access via IP address. There is also dynamic copy protection; support for shared I-Device, allowing connection of multiple controllers and fast data exchange; and enhanced configuration handling that allows modules to be specified and left unconnected without triggering alarms.

The firmware also introduces support for the forthcoming fail-safe S7-1200 CPUs and signal modules (SM) for implementing safety-related appliances.