Five Reasons to Upgrade to Siemens SIMATIC S7 PLC

When it comes to industrial automation, using outdated systems can leave your business vulnerable to inefficiencies and costly downtime. The Siemens SIMATIC S7 PLC is an advanced solution that addresses many of the challenges associated with older systems. Here are five compelling reasons why upgrading to the SIMATIC S7 is a smart move for your operations:

1. Reliability

Operating on a legacy system often feels like walking a tightrope—it’s unpredictable and risky. Obsolete systems may experience frequent failures, and sourcing replacement parts can become a frustrating scavenger hunt, often leading you to online marketplaces like eBay. Over time, documentation for these systems may be lost, and the few employees who understand how to maintain them might retire, leaving your team without the expertise it needs.

By upgrading to the Siemens SIMATIC S7 PLC, you can eliminate the uncertainty surrounding system failures. Instead of worrying about when your equipment might let you down, you can focus on leveraging the advanced features and stability of a modern, reliable system.

2. Speed

One of the most noticeable advantages of the S7 is its speed. In practical tests comparing the cycle times of the S7-1500, older systems like the S5-100U, and even competitors such as Allen-Bradley PLC 5-80, the S7 consistently outperformed all others. By measuring the input/output cycle time through a relay in real-world conditions, the S7 demonstrated more than double the speed of older PLCs.

For businesses seeking faster processes and reduced production delays, this improvement in speed translates directly to enhanced productivity.

3. Efficiency

Newer systems like the S7 don’t just perform better—they make it easier to identify and resolve issues. With advanced Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs), operators can quickly pinpoint the source of a problem and understand how to fix it. This level of diagnostic clarity significantly reduces downtime compared to older systems that provide vague or incomplete error messages.

In addition, the SIMATIC S7 is far more energy-efficient than its predecessors. With tools like PROFIenergy software, you can monitor and optimize your energy usage, identifying ways to minimize your standby load and cut energy costs.

4. Cost Savings

It’s natural to be concerned about the upfront costs of a system upgrade, but consider the alternative: What is the cost of unplanned downtime? In industries like automotive manufacturing, every minute of downtime can result in staggering losses—one study estimates this at $22,000 per minute.

Upgrading to the SIMATIC S7 can double your production speed and significantly reduce downtime, making the investment worthwhile. By avoiding inefficiencies and seizing new opportunities for productivity, the long-term savings and increased revenue potential far outweigh the initial expense.

5. Staying Innovative

Transitioning to the SIMATIC S7 isn’t just about improving current operations—it’s about staying relevant in an ever-evolving industrial landscape. Siemens invests billions of euros annually into research and development, ensuring their latest technologies remain cutting-edge. However, these advancements are tailored for current systems like the S7, not for outdated platforms like the S5.

In a competitive market, businesses must embrace change to remain ahead. Failing to adopt modern solutions can result in missed opportunities for growth and innovation. Upgrading to the S7 allows you to benefit from the latest advancements, ensuring your operations are prepared for the future.

In April 2024, Siemens announced the launch of a new generation of controllers. The SIMATIC S7-1200 G2 is set to debut in Winter 2024, offering enhanced performance, connectivity, and flexibility for modern manufacturing environments.

Final Thoughts

Change can be intimidating, especially when it comes to core systems that drive your business. However, clinging to outdated technology poses its own risks, including inefficiencies, higher costs, and missed opportunities for innovation. Investing in the Siemens SIMATIC S7 PLC is an investment in reliability, speed, efficiency, and the future of your business.

At Mizen Automation, we specialize in helping businesses transition to modern, high-performing systems. If you’re considering upgrading your industrial automation equipment, our expert team is here to help you make the leap seamlessly. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits of the Siemens SIMATIC S7 and how it can transform your operations.

For more insights into Siemens PLCs, don’t miss our previous blog post: A Guide to Siemens SIMATIC S7-300 PLCs, where we delve deeper into the features and advantages of these versatile controllers.