The CP 1243-8 IRC is a communication module for the SIMATIC S7-1200. The module makes it possible to connect the S7-1200 as an external station to the higher-level station (node and master) or to a control system via the SINAUT ST7 telecontrol protocol.

Configuration

The hardware and data are configured in STEP 7 V13 SP1 plus HSP011 (TIA Portal), and the ST7 connection is configured with STEP7 V5.5 plus SINAUT Engineering Software V5.5. The introduction of the "data point configuration" in STEP 7 dispenses with the programming effort for transfer of data to the control center. The data of the CPU relevant to the control center is selected via user-friendly "item browsing" in STEP 7. In a clearly-arranged menu, the data transfer parameters are then assigned to the data points selected in this way. The cyclic or event-controller transfer of measurements, setpoints or alarms can thus be implemented in only a few operations and without programming effort.

Web server access

Access to the Web server of the CPU via the Ethernet interface of the CP for easy diagnostics.

Security

Virtual Private Network (IPSec)
The connection of S7-1200 via a VPN network ensures that only authenticated network stations can communicate with the controller. Secure encryption of the data and verification of the data integrity protects the data traffic from espionage and manipulation.

Stateful Inspection Firewall

By using a firewall, the S7-1200 can provide additional protection against unauthorized access and manipulation attempts. The firewall filters data packets and checks the communication connections in accordance with the filter list. Both incoming and outgoing communication is filtered on the basis of IP and MAC addresses.

Alerting per e-mail or SMS

Alarm e-mails and alarm SMS messages can be configured to provide the service and maintenance personnel promptly with the station states. If previously defined events (such as threshold violation) should occur, application-specific information is sent automatically by e-mail and SMS.

Data backup

Data losses are prevented by the data buffering mechanisms integrated in the device. In the event of a connection failure, up to 16,000 time-stamped data messages are buffered. When the connection returns, the buffered values are automatically transferred to the control center in the right order.

Diagnostics

The CP 1243-8 IRC offers comprehensive diagnostic options for a quick and informative analysis of the station status. Elementary diagnostic information about the connection to the control center is signaled directly via LEDs at the CP. Further extensive information can be called up via STEP 7 and the web server.

Remote maintenance

For remote access from the control center to the substation, the CP provides a remote maintenance port in parallel with process operation. This ensures access for monitoring and program changes.