Automation Portal Allows for Drives Configuration With Single Interface

Siemens’ TIA Portal offers seamless integration of the drive system using Version 12 of Sinamics Startdrive. This allows users to quickly configure Sinamics G120 drives from a single graphical user interface.  The same applies to drive parameterization. The task-based sorting of drive functions reduces the start-up time for users as they are guided directly to functions via the specific task, Siemens reports. 

As with the Simatic programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in TIA Portal, the Sinamics drive is also displayed as a station in the project navigator. Simotics motors can be integrated into the engineering framework via Sinamics Startdrive. In addition, optimized safety function views have been integrated into Startdrive to ensure efficient commissioning of safe drive systems, which means that engineering for standard and safety-based programs can be implemented with TIA Portal.

Efficient drive engineering in TIA Portal is possible thanks to the identical handling of controllers, human-machine interfaces and drives.  Sinamics G120 drives can be configured in the same manner as an existing controller. The hardware catalog stored in the program can be used to add components. Bus connections can also be made via drag-and-drop.

Existing parameterization can be reused in the same or in a different project via the library. Additionally, since the power module is easily replaced via drag-and-drop menus, engineering can be modified even when power requirements change. This can save time when implementing follow-up projects.