PLC-PLC Communication

Introduction

• Today’s focus: PLC-PLC communication, specifically I.O. communication.
• PLCs involved: Siemens S7 family (1500, 300, 1200, and 400 models).
• Note: Older PLCs may not support newer firmware versions needed for this communication.

Setting Up PLCs

• Hardware Setup:
  • Two Siemens S7-1500 PLCs prepared for demonstration.
  • One PLC has a push button connected to an input module.
• Task:
  • Transfer push button signal from one PLC to the other using PROFINET instead of wiring.

Network Configuration

• Network Setup:
  • Both PLCs need to be in the same network for communication.
  • Confirmed by checking Ethernet addresses in the network view.

I.O. Device and I.O. Controller

• Definitions:
  • I.O. Controller: The PLC that sends data (the one with the push button).
  • I.O. Device: The PLC that receives data (the one without I/O modules).
• Operating Mode:
  • Set the I.O. mode for the appropriate Ethernet port in the PLC properties.

Data Transfer Process

• Parameters Assignment:
  • No configuration needed for the receiving PLC (I.O. Controller).
  • Configuration required for the sending PLC (I.O. Device).
• Data Transfer Steps:
  • Select the Ethernet port intended for data transfer.
  • Change operating mode to I.O. Device.
  • Identify which data to send (e.g., push button status).
  • Configure I.O. communication in TIA Portal.
  • Map the push button signal to an output in the I.O. Device’s memory.

Example Configuration

• Push Button Signal:
  • Push button connected to Input 1.0 on the I.O. Controller.
  • Output 100.0 used in the I.O. Device to represent the push button state.
  • Set up communication to send Output 100.0 to Input 1.0 of the I.O. Controller.

Downloading Programs

• Program Downloading:
  • Start by downloading the I.O. Device program first.
  • Followed by downloading the I.O. Controller program.
  • Ensure the PLCs can communicate post-download.

Testing the Setup

• Testing:
  • Press push button on the I.O. Controller.
  • Monitor the input on the I.O. Device to verify the signal is received correctly.
• Results:
  • Successful transfer of push button status from one PLC to another.

Conclusion

• I.O. devices allow for efficient communication between PLCs without extensive wiring.
• Important for projects involving multiple PLCs.
• Questions and comments encouraged; remember to like and subscribe.