If you're stepping into the world of industrial automation, you've likely encountered Siemens' STEP 7 software suite, a powerhouse for programming and configuring Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). However, Siemens offers two distinct versions: STEP 7 Basic and STEP 7 Professional. In this blog post, we'll clarify the differences between these two editions, helping you choose the one that best suits your automation needs.
STEP 7 Basic: Entry-Level PLC Programming
Target Audience:
- STEP 7 Basic is designed for entry-level users, beginners, and small to medium-sized projects.
1. Functionality:
- STEP 7 Basic offers essential PLC programming capabilities. It's ideal for straightforward control tasks and smaller automation projects.
2. Supported PLCs:
- It supports Siemens' S7-1200 and S7-1500 PLC series, which are known for their compact size and user-friendliness.
3. Programming Languages:
- You can use Ladder Logic (LAD), Function Block Diagrams (FBD), and Statement List (STL) for programming.
4. HMI Integration:
- STEP 7 Basic allows for basic Human Machine Interface (HMI) integration but has limited functionalities compared to STEP 7 Professional.
5. Project Complexity:
- It's suitable for projects with relatively simple automation requirements, such as controlling small machines or processes.
STEP 7 Professional: Advanced PLC Engineering
Target Audience:
- STEP 7 Professional is intended for experienced engineers, large-scale projects, and applications requiring advanced features.
1. Functionality:
- STEP 7 Professional offers an extensive range of PLC programming capabilities, making it suitable for complex and high-performance automation tasks.
2. Supported PLCs:
- It supports a broader range of Siemens PLCs, including older models like the S7-300 and S7-400, as well as newer ones like the S7-1200 and S7-1500.
3. Programming Languages:
- In addition to Ladder Logic (LAD), Function Block Diagrams (FBD), and Statement List (STL), STEP 7 Professional also supports Structured Control Language (SCL) and Graph (GRAPH) for advanced programming.
4. HMI Integration:
- STEP 7 Professional provides extensive HMI integration capabilities and supports advanced visualization options. It's suitable for developing complex and feature-rich HMI applications.
5. Project Complexity:
- It's the go-to choice for large-scale and highly complex automation projects, such as entire production lines, chemical plants, and advanced manufacturing processes.
Cost Considerations:
- STEP 7 Basic is more budget-friendly due to its limited feature set, making it an attractive option for smaller businesses and projects.
- STEP 7 Professional offers advanced functionalities but comes at a higher cost, justifiable for complex projects that demand a wide range of capabilities.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Version
The choice between STEP 7 Basic and STEP 7 Professional boils down to your project's complexity, budget, and your familiarity with PLC programming. For beginners and simpler applications, STEP 7 Basic is a cost-effective starting point. Meanwhile, experienced engineers and larger projects will find STEP 7 Professional to be a versatile and powerful tool capable of handling intricate automation challenges. Assess your specific requirements and choose the edition that aligns with your automation goals and expertise.