SIMATIC Programming Devices and other Similar Systems

Programming Devices  – robust and portable systems for the use of programming and monitoring mobile industrial automation

Programming devices are part of the family of HMI Operating Systems. With the help of these portable and robust computers one can adjust, monitor or install specific programms on site. Most Windows based Programming Devices are fitted out with Software according to the actual system running (for example Step 5 and Step 7). One of the main features however is the installment of a number of very specific interfaces such as AG, COM, MPI and others. Siemens Devices are the ones which are found at nearly every facility. They are also known under brands such as SIMATIC Field PG oder Power PG. It is important however to know that not all Siemens Programming Devices can communicate with every Siemens System. This depends on the Operating  System installed, the interfaces and actual Software. You will still find a large number of PLC Units out of the Simatic S5 range. Therefore many Programming Devices of the PG 740 types are still in use. These systems are in some cases 25 years old or even more. In comparison to modern Laptop techniques an unbelievable long life time.

A short history of Pogramming Devices

The first Programming Devices were introduced together with the installment of the early days PLC systems SIMATIC S5 dating back to the beginning of the 1980s. These devices – in those days often the size of a suitcase were heavy and bulk-like and only possessed a tiny processor unit – if at all. This lead to extremely complicated methods of operating and programming these modules. However, due to the speed in which the IT world had developed new ideas, techniques and systems these devices quickly lost size and weight and the introduction of specific interfaces, various driving systems helped to develop extremely reliable and fast devices. The SIMATIC  Field PG 740 is one oft he best known types of ist time. Using a trackball the use was much more comfortable than earlier models. The further development such as the SIMATIC Field PG M is a result of further developments in this field. Easy to use, high processing profiles due to built in parts such as the Pentium Processor. Alongside with redesigns on the battery performance and housing these items are nearly found all over the world if you take a closer look at the running facilities.