Visualization software SoftPLC S5-945

programmingOPCOPC server

Overview
The SoftPLC S5-943 / S5-945 is a real-time software PLC that executes S5 programs like a hardware PLC, enabling live status display and direct use of S5 programming tools (S5 for Windows® and STEP5). Online connections are available via serial, Ethernet or locally on the same PC; S5 PLC programs can be uploaded to the SoftPLC.

I/O and Bus Systems
The SoftPLC supports standard multi-I/O boards and a range of intelligent interface boards for common industrial bus systems. Optionally available drivers include INTERBUS, PROFIBUS DP, CAN, ASi and DeviceNet, enabling direct control of distributed I/O and field devices.

CPU and Execution
The software PLC shares PC CPU time with other applications; CPU allocation is configurable (for example 50% PLC / 50% other applications). On multi-processor systems a dedicated CPU can be assigned to the SoftPLC. Cycle time depends on OB1 execution time: shorter OB1 yields higher cycle frequency.

Coprocessor Boards
Optional coprocessor/processor boards can run the SoftPLC independently from the host PC. These boards plug into the motherboard, may include their own power supply and integrated bus interfaces, and increase operational independence from PC hardware failures.

Monitoring, Operation and Control
Process monitoring, operation and control can be performed from a single PC. Integrating the SoftPLC in a PC removes the need for a separate hardware PLC and communication processor when the PC is already used for data acquisition, visualization or programming.

Integration with Windows Applications
Communication with Windows applications is supported via IBH OPC Server and a DLL interface. The IBH OPC Server provides Ethernet and local-PC access to S5 and S7 SoftPLC instances. A DLL enables fast data exchange with third-party Windows applications; sample code and common visualization drivers are available.

Watchdog Function
Modern bus control boards include integrated watchdog functions to ensure inputs and outputs are handled like a hardware PLC CPU in case of PC failure. If the PC fails, bus outputs are reset to safe states.

Scalability and Versions
Two S5-compatible SoftPLC versions are offered: S5-943 with 48 kB program memory and S5-945 with 720 kB program memory. Both include an integrated PID algorithm using floating-point operations; the PID interface is compatible with Siemens CPU conventions.

Communications and Protocols
An interface board is required to connect the SoftPLC PC to physical I/O. Small applications may use standard multi-I/O boards accessed directly by the SoftPLC. Special instructions (DO RS 10 up to DO RS 31) allow I/O port access in the lower 64k segment. Network connectivity via standard Ethernet cards supports TCP/IP, enabling diagnostics over Internet/Intranet. The S5 implementation also integrates ModbusTCP and CP functionality.

Platforms and System Requirements
The SoftPLC S5 version installs on modern Windows operating systems; a Windows CE variant is available for OEM integration.

Technical specifications

• Product no.: 1206 (SKU)
• Model: SoftPLC S5-945
• Price (excl. VAT): 599.00 EUR
• Program memory: S5-943 = 48 kB, S5-945 = 720 kB
• Integrated PID algorithm with floating point operations; Siemens-compatible PID interface
• Supported programming tools: S5 for Windows®, STEP5
• Online connections: serial, Ethernet, local (same PC)
• Supported bus systems / drivers (optionally available): INTERBUS, PROFIBUS DP, CAN, ASi, DeviceNet
• Supports standard multi-I/O boards and intelligent bus interface boards
• Special instructions for I/O port access: DO RS 10 up to DO RS 31
• Networking protocols: TCP/IP, ModbusTCP, CP
• Integration options: IBH OPC Server and DLL interface for Windows applications
• Watchdog function via modern bus control boards to reset outputs on PC failure
• Supports installation on modern Windows OS; Windows CE version available for OEM
• Coprocessor board support for independent SoftPLC execution