Learn about the SIMATIC S7-1500 PLC - Free SCL Programming Course

Become an Expert in PLC Programming - Enrol on Our Course!

If you're wondering what you'll gain from enrolling on our PLC programming course, then we have the answer for you. Our free SIMATIC S7-1500 PLC programming course in SCL language has been carefully designed to introduce you to the world of industrial controller programming. Our main goal is to provide you with a solid foundation and the necessary skills that are indispensable when working with PLCs. As part of our course, you will get access to a wealth of learning material, expert support and practical exercises to help you develop your skills in programming S7-1500 controllers. Join us now and gain valuable experience in PLC programming!

Why Choose Our Course?

1. Over 8 Hours of HD Recordings

We offer more than 8 hours of recordings in HD quality, without any time restrictions. Our materials will enable you to consolidate your knowledge and solve tasks on your own. You will follow the instructor's actions precisely and have the opportunity to repeat them accurately.

2 Exploring the TIA Portal environment

During the course you will explore a variety of tasks in the TIA Portal environment, discovering its capabilities. You will gain a solid knowledge of Siemens PLC modules. By designing in TIA Portal, you will explore the complex functionality of this platform and gain a comprehensive knowledge of SIMATIC S7-1500 controllers.

3. for Beginners and Advanced

No experience in controller programming? That's great! Our course is dedicated to both beginners and those who want to expand their skills.

4. operation on all operating systems

You can follow the free PLC S7-1500 course in SCL language on any Windows computer. It does not require a specialist PG field. All you need is a computer, which saves resources and allows you to start learning immediately.

5. no Additional Equipment

The PLC S7-1500 course in SCL can be delivered on real hardware or a virtual environment, such as the PLCsim simulator. You have a flexible choice, without the need for a physical controller.

6 Free Software

The course takes place in the professional TIA Portal environment, available for free download. The full functionality of the tool allows for effective learning without additional software expenditure.

7. SCL programming

In our free PLC S7-1500 in SCL course, you will discover the process of creating code in the popular SCL text language. This language will make it easy to learn and program the SIMATIC S7-1500 controller.

8 Learning Without Limits

The course is available online, which means learning without time or location restrictions. You have full freedom to access the material and can repeat lessons according to your own schedule.

What will you be able to do after completing the Course?

Whatever your career path, completing this course will contribute to your professional goals and enhance your competence in PLC programming. Learning about the programming topics presented is the first step to taking up a position:

Process Automation Officer: Gain programming and industrial automation skills to become a process control specialist.
PLC programmer: The PLC S7-1500 course in SCL will enable you to program PLCs independently for basic applications.
Sales Engineer: You will gain a deeper technical knowledge of the equipment and its capabilities, enabling you to better advise customers on PLC control systems.
Product Manager: The course will enable you to gain a better understanding of the potential and capabilities of the PLC hardware of the SIMATIC S7-1500 family to support the management of industrial automation-related products.

Just learning the theory is only the beginning. In our course, we mainly focus on the practical application of knowledge. We encourage active participation and regular exercises, which will help you achieve better results and become a confident and competent PLC programmer. Sign up for our free course today and start your adventure in industrial automation!

Key information about the PLC

We are a leader in industrial automation and our mission is to provide state-of-the-art solutions for your industry. That's why we'd like to welcome you to our blog, where you'll find extremely valuable information about the Siemens Simatic S7-1500 PLC. Here's what you need to know about it.

Introduction to the Siemens Simatic S7-1500 PLC

The Siemens Simatic S7-1500 PLC is the flagship product of German giant Siemens AG. It is an advanced programmable logic controller that significantly improves industrial automation processes. If you're wondering what a PLC is and what benefits it can bring to your business, that's what you'll read about below.

Advantages of the Siemens Simatic S7-1500 PLC

1. Exceptional Performance

The Siemens Simatic S7-1500 is extremely powerful. Thanks to the latest processor technology, it is able to handle even the most complex production processes.

2. Flexibility and scalability

One of the main advantages of this PLC is its flexibility. You can tailor it to your individual needs, which means that whatever industry your business is in, the Simatic S7-1500 will be the perfect solution.

3. Easy setup

The configuration of this controller is extremely simple and intuitive. This allows you to get started quickly and optimise your production processes.

Siemens Simatic S7-1500 PLC applications

1 Automotive industry

The Siemens Simatic S7-1500 PLC is used in the automotive industry, where precision and reliability are key. This controller allows control of even the most complex production processes, resulting in higher product quality.

2. Chemical industry

In the chemical industry, the reliability of production processes is of paramount importance. The Simatic S7-1500 guarantees safe and efficient control of chemical plants.

3. food industry

In the food sector, where hygiene and precision are key, the Simatic S7-1500 performs perfectly. You can be sure that your products will always comply with the highest standards.

Summary

The Siemens Simatic S7-1500 PLC is an innovative solution that is revolutionising industrial automation. With its performance, flexibility and reliability, it is the ideal choice for many industries. If you are looking for a programmable logic controller that truly outperforms the competition, the Simatic S7-1500 is the answer.

Highlights - lessons from the course

Name of lesson: Object

In this lesson we will take a closer look at the object that will be the focus of our next lessons. We will focus on understanding its construction and how it is controlled using a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) circuit. The key is to understand the key word 'PLC' and use it in the content to make our article more search engine friendly.

The facility we are looking at consists of three tanks, also known as tankers, and valves labelled Y1 and Y2. These valves are controlled by a PLC, allowing precise control of the flow of substances between the tanks.

The first step is to open valve Y1. This allows the substance to be moved from one tank to a larger tank. Opening valve Y2 allows the substance to be diverted from the second tank into the same larger tank. This process is crucial in the efficient management of substances and industrial processes.

The drawing of the object also shows the various input and output signals that are relevant to the control of this object. In addition to the signals shown in the drawing, there are also signals such as start, stop, and selector that affect the behaviour of the object. This advanced control allows for flexibility and precision in operation.

It is also worth noting that, in addition to the control signals, there is an output signal, designated as a green light. This light can serve as an indicator of the status or result of an object, which is important for process monitoring.

Note that there may be more signals and controls in reality, but in our lessons we will be working with the SIM PLC simulator, which enables us to understand and test these processes in detail.

Lesson name: New project

Table of contents:

Content of the statement

Launch of TIA Portal

Creation of the project

Adding a device

Division of units

Addition of modules/cards

Device overview tab

Properties tab

Launching the PLCsim simulator

Summary

In this lesson we will explore the process of creating a project in Tia Portal and programming a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). Our key word is 'PLC', which will appear frequently in the content to make this article more search engine friendly.

Starting work at Tia Portal

After launching Tia Portal version v17, the first step is to go to the project view. In the bottom left corner, you will find the button "Project View," which will allow you to manage your project conveniently.
Creating a New Project

The next step is to create a new project. We can do this by selecting "Project New" or by clicking on the "New Project" icon. We enter a name for the project, select the destination path and the author. Once the information is complete, we press "Create" to create the project.
Adding a Device

Now it is time to add the central processing unit (CPU) to the project. We select 'Device' and choose the appropriate unit from the 1500 family and possibly the expansion cards. This is the key control.
Module configuration

Next, we add modules, such as input and output cards. We can choose from different types of modules depending on the needs of the project. This allows the controller to be precisely tailored to the application.
Address configuration

We allocate signal addresses for the modules. We can customise the address space, allowing more flexible signal management in the project.
Commissioning the Virtual Controller

Now it is time to launch the virtual controller, also known as the "PLC SIM" - simulator. We select 'Start Simulator' and then start the simulator. This is a key step before we start programming.
Controller programming

Once the simulator is up and running, we can begin programming the controller. This is a process that allows us to programme the controller's behaviour in response to various signals and conditions.
Project record

Once the configuration and programming is complete, we save the project. This is important in order to preserve the progress of the work and be able to continue it later.

This is a basic guide to creating a project in Tia Portal and programming a PLC. This process can be more complex in real industrial projects, but these steps provide a solid foundation. They will make us ready for more advanced industrial automation issues.

Lesson name: Symbolic names

Table of contents:

Content of the task

Start of work at TIA Portal

Addition of tables

Completion of the board - digital inputs

Completion of the table - digital outputs

Functionality for adding similar names

Summary

The next step in the process is to identify the symbols, or absolute addresses, that result from the hardware configuration. In this article, we will discuss the process of creating these symbols and creating two arrays - one related to inputs and one related to outputs. Then, we will assign names and types to these symbols.

Moving on to the T portal, the symbol creation process takes place in the PLC folder. Let's elaborate on this in more detail. The first step will be to add a new table. We select the 'Table' option and rename it. This is easy, just right-click and select "Rename". Here we enter the name "Digital Inputs" in square brackets. By default, the number zero appears, as we do not have any symbols yet at the moment.

Next, let's add another table and rename it 'Digital Outputs'. Now we need to complete these tables, starting with the Digital Inputs. Let's go back to the slide where the symbol descriptions are. We enter the name "DI_S0", the type "Input" and then the address "I0", as given on the slide. The next symbol is "DI_S2" with address "0.2" and then "DI_S1" with address "0.3".

This is important, especially in the context of electrical issues. Here you will find information about these symbols. In addition, we have a selector which can also be commented on. These signals will be used as outputs. We record this information.

Now we jump to the part related to Digital Outputs. We need to create a "Digital Outputs" board. Let's make sure we are on the right slide. Now we need to enter the output signals. We start with 'Q0' and then move to 'Y2'. We can use the drag function, similar to that of Excel, to quickly fill in the next symbols.

Finally, we are left with the last signal, 'DQ'. This appears to be a typo and the correct name is 'DQ', or output signal. Once all the symbols have been entered, we save the project.

Now we are ready for the next lessons with all the information and symbols we need.

Lesson name: IO test

Table of contents:

Content of the task

Start of work at TIA Portal

Go to PLC tags

Integration of monitoring

Switching the view of the PLCsim simulator

Creation of a project for the simulator

Download software

Use of SIMtable

State assignment for a digital input

Use of the Watch table

Output signal status modification

Summary

Tia Portal is an advanced tool that is an integral part of the industrial automation world. In today's article, we will discuss how to use Tia Portal effectively, particularly focusing on input and output signals and monitoring functionality. We will outline steps to help you create projects and programmes efficiently.

1. Start with Input Signals

The first step in working with Tia Portal is to analyse the input signals. Finding the right information about them is crucial to the correct operation of the system. Remember that you will often be using PCT tables, so the names of the signals are important. Spectacles, the visualisation tools, will help you with this.

2 Monitoring of input signals

Now that you know the input signals, move on to the monitoring functionality. This is where the glasses come into play. Click on the relevant icon to access the real-time states of the inputs. You will be able to track whether all states are at logical zero.

3. Create a Simulator

The simulator is an indispensable tool when working with Tia Portal. To start it, follow a few steps. Select the project view and then create a new project, giving it an appropriate name. Also specify the destination path where the project will be saved. Now click "Create" and you can proceed to the next steps.

4. Upload Software

In this step, it is necessary to upload the software to the controller. Make sure that the symbolic names are as you expect. When selecting "Blocks download to Device" and "Software," download the software part to the device memory. This is a key component to get everything working smoothly.

5. Work with the SIM Board

Next, focus on the SIM board. We usually start by selecting a signal to check, for example s0. Now it is important to set the state low or high. Use the checkbox to do this. Checking it will result in a high state, unchecking it will result in a low state. Remember that for NC signals the checkbox should be checked all the time, which means a high state.

6 Output signals

The final step is to work with the output signals. Use the "Swatch and Force Stay" folder in Tia Portal. Create a new board and give it a suitable name, for example "testing output." Then select the output signal you want to work on, for example y1. Enter the appropriate output address, for example q0.0.

You can now modify the state of the output by right-clicking on the signal and selecting the appropriate state, be it low or high.

7 Programme code

Once you have completed the above steps, you can move on to programming. Tia Portal offers many tools for creating complex control programmes. Remember that everything you set up beforehand affects the correct operation of your system.

Lesson name: Assignment

Table of contents:

Content of the task

Start of work at TIA Portal

Addition of OB1 block in SCL

Overview of the workspace in TIA Portal

Writing programme code

Compilation error

PLC programming

Tests

Start of code monitoring

Split workspace functionality

Coding is a fundamental aspect of programming. In today's article, we will discuss the process of creating code in the SCL language, which is commonly used in controller programming. We will look at the steps required to create effective code in this language.

1. Project creation To begin with, we need to create a project and set up the relevant directory structures. In our case, we will be using the 'Blocks' folder. This is an important step that will allow us to manage our project in a more structured way.

2 Creating Blocks In the SCL language, we use different types of blocks. In our case, we will focus on organisational blocks, specifically the cyclic block labelled OB 1. It is in this block that we will place our program code.

3 Block type selection There are a number of block types in the SCL language, but for our project we choose the organisational block (OB). We select "Cycle" and confirm the selection.

4 Structure of the Project In the main workspace, which is located at the top of the project, we have access to various icons and tools. This is where we write our programme code. On the left is the 'Favourites' section, where we can find popular programming instructions. On the right, we have the instructions tab, where instructions are divided into categories such as 'Basic' or 'Extended'.

5. creation of Logic The value of our code lies in the logic we put into it. For example, if we want to check the state of the input signal s0, we can use the instruction "DQ y1 := di s0". This instruction assigns the state of the input signal s0 to the output variable y1. Remember to end each line of code with a semicolon.

6 Compilation Once the code has been written, it is important to run a compilation to check its syntax. If there are errors, these will be displayed at the bottom of the interface, indicating exactly where the code needs to be corrected.

7 Programming the Controller When the code is ready and error-free, we can save the project and pass it to our control device. This is where our code will be run and controlled.

8 Testing Monitoring is worth paying attention to. It allows us to keep track of the current status of the signals and make sure that our code is working correctly. This is important for checking that all instructions are properly assigned and working as expected.

Summary Creating code in the SCL language can be complicated, but with the right organisation and logic we can create an effective control programme. It is also important to test regularly to make sure everything is working correctly. With these steps, we will be able to programme controllers and automate processes effectively.

Name of lesson: AND gate

Table of contents:

Content of the task

Start of work at TIA Portal

Writing the code

PLC programming

Start of monitoring

Use of PLCsim

Output status and PLC duty cycle

Use of the Watch table

W this lesson We will discuss how to meet the control conditions of the Y1 valve. This is a key component in the industry that requires precise programming and an understanding of the various components that affect its operation.

Control conditions for valve Y1

The conditions that must be met for the Y1 valve to be actuated are a key aspect in ensuring that the system operates correctly. Each component of these conditions must be met, otherwise the valve will not actuate. The main components are S0 and the selector, which must be active.

Programming in Tia Portal

To meet these conditions, we go to the Tia Portal environment and write the corresponding program code. Our goal is to control valve Y1, so we start in block OB 1.

The first step is to write the program code that will be responsible for controlling valve Y1. Then, using the assignment operator, we check whether signal D and S0 are active. If both of these components are active, we pass to the gate "End," which means that the conditions have been met. The next component of the condition is the selector. After checking both components, we end our program code by adding a semicolon at the end. This program code is the solution to our task.

Functional check

We can now move on to testing our programme. We save the project and move on to programming the controller. We turn on the glasses and use the PLC SIM.

Now that we have our programme ready, we can start testing it in a real environment. When the glasses are switched on, we can see that the S0 signal is in the 'True' state. We can select the signal we want to monitor and it will be sharpened, making it easier for us to observe. However, even though S0 is in the "True" state, the Y1 valve is in the "False" state. Why?

If you look at the selector, you will notice that it is active. It is the selector that is the key component that affects the condition of valve Y1. In this case, both components of the condition must be true for the valve to operate correctly. So a condition of 'True' for S0 and an active selector means that valve Y1 is in the high state.

If we turn off S0, we notice that the valve is turned off. It is worth noting that by changing the state of the output, we use the Watch function. This allows us to monitor the state of the output and influence it if it is not in line with our expectations.

Summary

In this article, we have discussed how to meet the Y1 valve control conditions. A key aspect is to ensure that the components of the condition, such as S0 and the selector, are active. By programming in Tia Portal and testing accordingly, we can ensure that the Y1 valve is operating as we expect. Let's remember to monitor the signals using the Watch function, which allows us to check the status of the output in real time.

Knowing how to control the Y1 valve is vital in many areas of industry, so it is useful to understand what conditions must be met for this process to run smoothly.

Name of lesson: OR gate

Table of contents:

Content of the task

Start of work at TIA Portal

Writing the code

PLC programming

Start of monitoring

In this lesson we will look at the topic of controlling the Y1 valve using an OR gate in the TIA Portal environment. The OR gate, also known as a logical sum, plays a key role in the control process, allowing the Y1 valve to be activated under certain conditions. We will go through the steps to set up this process and understand how the OR gate affects the behaviour of the valve.

Basics of Y1 valve control

Before we get into the specific steps in TIA Portal, it is worth understanding how the Y1 valve control works. The control value here is the result of an OR gate, which consists of two components: the S0 signal and the selector. The main purpose is to control the state of valve Y1, which can be open or closed.

Programme development in TIA Portal
Opening of OB 1: Let's start by opening block OB 1, which is responsible for controlling valve Y1. We can do this from the project tree or by using the available OB 1 block.
Programming of DQ output Y1: We then move on to programming the DQ Y1 output. Our aim is to assign a value to this output that will control the valve.
Using an OR gate: The value of the DQ output Y1 is determined by the OR gate. We create an expression that contains the assignment operator, the OR gate and the D and S0 signals. This expression determines the state of valve Y1.

DQ Y1 := D OR S0;
Possibility of adding more ingredients: It is worth noting that for more advanced configurations, more components can be added to the OR gate to accommodate different valve operating conditions.

Programme code testing

Once the programme code has been written, it is worth testing its operation. The first step is to save the project and upload it to the controller's memory. We then start the monitoring and switch to the Perce SIM simulator.

S0 signal activation: When we activate the S0 signal, we can see that the Y1 valve is opened. This is as expected, since the OR gate requires one real component to activate.
Selector activation: In addition, by activating the selector, we can also see that valve Y1 is opened. The OR gate takes into account one or more real components.

Summary

The conclusion of our article is that the OR gate is a powerful tool in controlling the Y1 valve in TIA Portal. It allows different conditions and behaviours to be taken into account, providing flexibility and efficiency in the control process. Understanding how the OR gate works and using it skilfully is the key to effective industrial process management in the TIA Portal environment.

Lesson name: Combination of AND - OR gates

Table of contents:

Content of the task

Start of work at TIA Portal

Writing the code

PLC programming

Tests

Start of code monitoring

In the body of the task we are given that we will control valve Y1. Here the signals that go into the control logic are we have S0 and START. We see the square bracket, so they will be connected to each other by an OR gate. We see the 'or' in red, so it is clear which gate to use. In addition, you will need a selector that has to be active for these conditions to be met until it finally opens the Y1 valve.

Let's now move on to programming and writing the program code in OB 1. We delete the program code from the previous lesson to start again.

Now we start writing the programme code:

DQ Y1 := S0 OR START AND SELECTOR;

What we have written here is best emphasised by using brackets so that these components are linked together by an OR gate. Outside the brackets, we write "AND" and "SELECTOR". Of course, we don't forget the semicolon at the end, which is important. It is important to use parentheses because often the absence of parentheses causes program code written in SCL to not work. Adding brackets immediately makes everything work, so this is something to look out for.

Now let's jump to programming the controller. We save the project, right-click on "Program Blocks" and go to "Device Software". We then move on to testing in the simulator.

If S0 is active, we see that S0 is active, but Y1 is not yet driven, it is at a low level, which we also see on the SIM panel. There must be an active selector to drive Y1. We can see that only now Y1 has been driven, it is in the high state.

If S0 is inactive, i.e. the part in brackets is false, valve Y1 will not be operated.

If the 'START' signal is active, this is also sufficient to start the valve.

In summary, these conditions must be met to drive the valve, i.e. to set a high state on the output to which the valve is connected, so that the valve will open.

So we have a closed valve.

Lesson name: Holding - AND - OR gate

Table of contents:

Content of the task

Start of work at TIA Portal

Writing the code

PLC programming

Start of monitoring

Checking "dominance"

This time we will discuss the different aspects of managing valve 1 using software code. In this lesson, we will learn how to switch valve 1 on and off in our system.

Our main objective is to use a combination of End and No gates to effectively control the valve. Let's start by writing the appropriate program code to control the valve.

The output value we want to achieve is the status of the 'Start' button. We will check that it has been pressed before we proceed further in our process.

The next important element is the circuit with the back-up. Here we check that the actuator (in this case labelled C) is active. We will use the logic gate 'or' (or) to check this condition accurately.

It is also necessary to ensure that the 'Stop' button is not active. To do this, we will use the 'End' gate in conjunction with the appropriate logic operations.

Now that we have the full picture, we also need to ensure that the 'Stop' button is in the 'NC' (i.e. normally closed) state. This means that we need to check the high state to find out if it is pressed.

The whole process relies on appropriate combinations of logic gates such as 'and', 'or' and 'assignment operator'. With these, we can ensure that our valve works as expected.

An extremely important aspect is also the system with a backup, which is implemented by reading the status of the outputs. It is through this function that we can ensure that the valve remains in the correct state at all times.

After writing the programme code, we will proceed with testing. We will use a tool called "PLC SIM", which will allow us to start the valve by activating the "Start" button. We will see that valve Y1 has been controlled by ticking the appropriate box. We can also disable it by unchecking the box.

Further tests will show us that the Y1 valve is driven, which is the result of the system operating with a back-up. This is usually indicated by a value of '1' in the RLO field.

However, if we activate the 'Stop' button by ticking the corresponding checkbox, we will see that the Y1 valve is switched off. In this case, the 'Stop' button is more dominant, meaning that it takes precedence over the 'Start' button.

It is worth noting that if both 'Start' and 'Stop' are ticked, the valve will remain inactive as there is a dominance of switch-off. This arrangement is often used to ensure that switch-off has a higher priority than switch-on.

In summary, controlling valve 1 using software code requires an understanding of various aspects related to gate logic and the operation of circuits with sustains. Correctly configuring these elements will allow us to effectively manage the valve and adapt it to our needs.

Lesson name: Conditional instruction IF

Table of contents:

Content of the task

Start of work at TIA Portal

Use of the IF statement template

How the IF instruction works

Writing the code

PLC programming

Programme code monitoring

PLC programming is a key aspect in today's industry. In this lesson we will discuss how to use the conditional 'If' statement in TIA Portal to control a valve in an industrial washing machine. We will present the programming steps and explain why it is important to maintain the correct hierarchy in the program code.

The conditional instruction "If" is the equivalent of the SR or RS flip-flop, known from the Ladder language. In TIA Portal, we can easily create this instruction. All we need to do is specify a condition which, if met, will cause the execution of the specified program code.

If we consider the example of an industrial washing machine, our aim is to control the valve. We only want the valve to be switched on when certain conditions are met. If the start button is active, that is our condition. If it is, then we want the valve to be switched on.

If Button_Start == Active

Valve = On;

Else

Valve = Off;

End If;

It is worth noting that the code is executed from top to bottom, so we need to choose the order of our conditions carefully. In our case, turning the valve off has a higher priority than turning it on.

In order to realise this, we also need to include the "Stop" button as a condition for switching off the valve. If "Stop" is active, the valve should be switched off.

If Button_Stop == Active

Valve = Off;

End If;

Thus, our programme code is ready. We have valve on and valve off conditions that are handled accordingly.

When testing the programme, we can see that when we activate the "Start" button, the valve is switched on, and when we activate "Stop", the valve is switched off. These values are stored and read with the DQ variable y1, allowing us to monitor the status of the valve.

In practice, hierarchy and order in the program code are crucial, so we need to take care of the correct placement of conditions and instructions. In our case, off takes precedence over on, which is logical in the context of an industrial washing machine.

In summary, programming PLCs using the "If" conditional statement in TIA Portal is a key element in managing industrial processes. It is worth paying attention to the hierarchy of conditions and the correct sequence of instructions to ensure that the system functions correctly. In this way, various industrial devices, such as valves in industrial washing machines, can be effectively controlled and monitored.