In context
In May 2023, the industrial automation landscape was increasingly focused on digitalization and the convergence of information technology (IT) and operational technology (OT). Manufacturers sought more flexible, software-centric control solutions that could decouple from traditional hardware, enabling centralized management and data-driven optimization. Siemens' announcement of its first virtual PLC marked a significant step in this direction, aligning with broader industry trends toward virtualized control systems.
What was reported
Siemens unveiled its first virtual programmable logic controller (PLC), the Simatic S7-1500V, which is based on the functions and operation of the Simatic S7-1500 PLC but independent of its hardware. The virtual PLC can be downloaded like an app and integrated directly into IT environments, aiming to unlock digitalization potential.
The company also introduced the Sinamics G220, its first drive in the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio. This high-performance, multi-purpose adjustable speed drive features 'Clean Power technology' that reduces harmonics by up to 97 percent, contributing to energy efficiency and sustainability across its lifecycle.
Key benefits of the virtual PLC include compatibility with TIA Portal, allowing users to rely on familiar tools and existing projects. It enables centralized operation and software-based automation of process steps. Administration is streamlined through Industrial Edge Management, allowing software updates to be managed centrally and configurations tested virtually before deployment. Being hardware-independent, the software runs on computers with Industrial Edge Run Time in the factory while hardware remains on the shopfloor.
The virtual PLC also supports IT-OT convergence, helping plants make better data-driven decisions on performance, productivity, flexibility, and sustainability while maintaining robust plant security.
Why it mattered
This introduction signaled a shift toward software-defined automation, where control logic can be deployed and managed like IT applications. For industrial automation, this meant potential reductions in maintenance efforts, increased flexibility in plant design, and a more seamless integration of IT and OT—paving the way for smarter, more agile manufacturing operations.
"The virtual PLC can be downloaded similar to an app and integrated directly into the IT environment, helping customers unlock the potential of digitalization."
Source: Robotics & Automation News (roboticsandautomationnews.com) · Published 2023-05-26 · “Siemens unveils its first virtual PLC and new automation products”