CPs with an internal microprocessor

• Protocol software executes on the CP
• Free PC resources for applications
• Suitable for comprehensive applications
• Recommended for applications with HMI systems which have high performance requirements, e.g. WinCC
• Recommended for large systems (eight stations or more, e.g. SIMATIC)
• Constant communication throughput
• Can be used for redundant communication
• Use for PROFINET IO real-time applications (RT, IRT with CP 1616/CP 1604)
• Time synchronization

CPs without internal microprocessor

• Protocol software executes on the PG/PC
• PC resources are divided between communications and applications
• Suitable for less comprehensive applications
• Recommended for smaller applications (up to eight stations, e.g. SIMATIC)
• Communications performance depends on PC resources and PC loading

CPs with integral switch

• Connection of additional field devices to the Industrial Ethernet by means of additional switch ports
• Switch operation possible via external power supply even with PC turned off

Configuration for SIMATIC NET version V12 or higher

STEP 7 V12 or higher is used for PC configuration. The STEP7 software is included in the scope of delivery of the SIMATIC NET products. A STEP7 license is not required for PC configuration.

Configuration for SIMATIC NET versions up to V8.2:

The PC can be configured either in STEP 7 or in NCM PC Version V5.1+SP2 and higher. Both tools offer the same 'look & feel' and create the same database. This enables integrated configuration of the open communication and S7 communication functions. Data only has to be entered once and data consistency is assured.

• A configuration wizard integrated into NCM PC also supports user-driven configuration of the PC station.
• With NCM PC and STEP 7 from Version V5.1+SP2 upwards, a PC similar to a SIMATIC S7 station can be configured and loaded over a network. This applies both to the local station on which NCM PC or STEP 7 is installed and to the remote station that is addressed over the network.

Note:
NCM PC does not contain a conversion function for LDBs that were created using COML S7. Reconfiguration is necessary.

Function overview of the communication modules with integral switch for SIMATIC PG/PC/IPC