A number of implemented standard protocols facilitate data exchange with a wide variety of partners:

• ASCII:
  For interfacing to third-party systems with simple transmission protocols, e.g. protocols with start and end characters or with block check characters. The interface handshake signals can be called and controlled via the user program.
• 3964(R)
  For interfacing to Siemens devices or third-party components via the standardized and Siemens protocol 3964(R) which is open for the user. A 3964(R) driver with standard values as well as a parameterizable 3964(R) driver are implemented.
• RK 512, for computer interfacing.
• Printer driver:
  For protocoling process states and events on a printer.

Parameterization

Parameterization of the CP 341 communication module is especially user friendly and simple:

• The user assigns the module characteristics via a parameterization tool integrated in STEP 7, e.g.
  • which implemented protocol drivers should be used or
  • which driver-specific characteristics should be used.
• Parameterization via CPU:
  The PG is simply connected to the CPU. The configuration data are stored in a system block and backed up in the CPU.
• Configuration package (on CD):
  with electronic manual, parameterization screen forms and standard function blocks for communicating with the CP.

Configuring the drivers

Loading and configuring the drivers requires the configuring package for CP 441-2 and CP 341 from V4.0 and STEP 7 V4.0.
The drivers are copy protected by a dongle.