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Better communication performance for PC-based automation

The Siemens Industry Automation Division has equipped its PC-based SIMATIC WinAC RTX controller with a Profinet interface. This can be used for both standard Ethernet and Profinet communications, for example as a Profinet IO controller or for communicating with Profinet CBA (Component Based Automation). The controller communicates with I/O devices and other automation systems isochronously under the Profinet IRT (Isochronous Realtime) protocol standard. WinAC RTX operates the interface independently of the Windows operating system. This increases availability and guarantees deterministic response. The controller can also control up to three PROFIBUS lines.

Simatic WinAC RTX 2008 is configured and programmed with Step 7, either on the PC on which the software is installed or via Profinet or Profibus from any point in the network. WinAC RTX is program-compatible with the Simatic-S7-400 controllers so that previously created software can continue to be used one-to-one. Windows and C/C++ applications, and PC cards and peripherals can be easily integrated by means of the Open Development Kit (ODK) to adapt a PC-based solution to any particular automation task. The new controller is compatible with earlier models, and all user programs can continue to be used unchanged.