With SOFTNET, the complete protocol stack is processed in the PC.

This architecture means that in contrast to the CP 1613 A2/CP 1623/CP 1628 communications processors, the performance of the SOFTNET packages is dependent on the configuration or capacity utilization of the PC used.

The IT functionality is established in connection with the interfaces and the PC's Windows software.

User interfaces

OPC interface

The OPC server included in the respective software package can be used as the standard programming interface for the S7 communication and open communication protocols in order to connect automation technology applications to OPC-compatible Windows applications such as Office, HMI systems, etc.

Software for PG/OP communication

This software makes it possible to program the S7 controllers via Industrial Ethernet in conjunction with the STEP 7 engineering software.

Software for S7 communication

SIMATIC S7 system components communicate with each other using S7 communication functions.

The S7 communication can be based optionally on the ISO protocol or the TCP/IP protocol.

S7 communication offers the following services:

• Administrative services
• S7 connection management services
• Variable services
• VFD (Virtual Field Device) services
• Trace and mini database

Open communication (SEND/RECEIVE)

This interface based on Layer 4 (ISO Transport or TCP/IP with RFC 1006) is used for communication between

• PG/PC and SIMATIC S5
• PG/PC and SIMATIC S7
• PG/PC and PG/PC

Open communication (SEND/RECEIVE) offers the following services:

• Management services
• Dial-up services
• Data transfer services

Configuration

• The complete configuration of the S7 communication and open communication protocols takes place in STEP 7 or NCM PC V5.1 SP2 or higher
• A configuration tool is included in the scope of delivery of the corresponding packages
• H-connections are configured using STEP 7 (V5.0 to V5.5)

System configuration with SOFTNET-S7 Lean for Industrial Ethernet and SIMATIC S7-1200