Simatic HW basic / PLC Types
The original S7 series debuted in the mid-1990s as a successor to the S5 line. The current generation (S7) was introduced between 2009 and 2013 to integrate with the TIA Portal.
Siemens SIMATIC S7 controllers range from compact, entry-level units to high-performance modular systems designed for complex industrial automation. The S7-1200 and S7-1500 represent the current generation optimized for the TIA Portal, while the S7-300 and S7-400 are legacy modular systems.
| Feature | LOGO! (Basic) | S7-1200 (Compact) | S7-1500 (Advanced) | S7-300 (Legacy) | S7-400 (High-End) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - |  |  |  |  |  |
| Launch Year | 1996 | 2009 | 2012 | 1994 | 1994 |
| Status | Active (Current: LOGO! 8) | Active (G2 launched Dec 2024) | Active (Flagship series) | Phasing out as of 2023 | Active for specialized/critical tasks |
| Design | Logic Module Programmable Relay | Compact Modular | Modular with Display | Legacy Modular | Legacy High-End |
| Max Digital I/O | 24 Inputs / 20 Outputs | Up to ~280 | High Density (thousands) | High Density | Very High (rack-based) |
| Integrated I/O | Always included | Integrated onboard | No (onboard display only) | Some models only | No |
| Expansion | 35mm DIN rail modules | Max 8 Signal Modules | Max 32 modules/rack | Max 8 modules/rack | Up to 21 racks |
| Redundancy | No | No | Hardware (R/H models) | Software only | Full Hardware (H) |
| Software | LOGO! Soft Comfort | TIA Portal | TIA Portal | Step 7 / TIA Portal | Step 7 / TIA Portal |