How to upgrade the Siemens S7-200 PLC system?
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There are currently 9 sets of Siemens S7-200 PLCs that need to be upgraded. Originally, each CPU226 was equipped with 7 digital input/output modules, which were connected to a touch screen for operation and monitoring. Due to years of wear and tear, upgrades are now necessary; 3 sets of PLCs will share one host computer, meaning a total of 3 host computers will be used to monitor and control the 9 sets of PLCs. What approach would be suitable for such an upgrade? Reliable? Easy to implement, easy to configure, easy to maintain? How to configure the hardware? How to configure the software? I’m seeking advice from experts; those who provide detailed plans or implementation strategies will receive rewards in the form of wealth and charm!
Does the S7 200 have an Ethernet template? The simplest approach is to use Ethernet to connect to the control room (if the distance is large, use fiber optics for conversion). There are many options available for the upper-level software – WinCC, Intouch, Citect, and so on – and one can simply write their own program for the upper-level system.
If an S7-300 PLC is used, the original 9 PLC units can be divided into three groups according to actual needs, with one CPU in each group serving as the master station. The IO points from the other two original PLC units operate in slave mode, forming a master-slave structure with the master station CPU via communication cards for control purposes. The upper-level computer can use software such as WinCC or KingView for monitoring (cracked versions are available online)
Previously, there was no Ethernet module; to add one, it was necessary to remove another module first and then install the Ethernet module. The distance between these actions is not great, as they both take place in the same control room
It’s not a new project; the original CPU226 is already in use. What’s changed is that the original touch screen has been replaced with 3 upper-level computers
It would be better to use an S7-300 PLC
I suggest you consider DCS configuration for larger quantities.
The PLC was installed back in 2002; now it has only been replaced with a higher-level computer, with no major changes to the hardware
All PLC systems are S7-200; if the distance permits, you can use Ethernet communication via the RJ45 interface. Hardware code, buy three computers ； Buy three 12-port switches. As for the software, WINCC will suffice; it is recommended that you consult the manufacturer before implementation, as some source codes are not made available by the manufacturer.
It’s difficult; you can ask more experts from Siemens about this
Thank you for your help. Could we use a 16-port switch, with 9 sets of PLCs connected to it, and also 3 host computers connected to the same switch?