Step 7 - The Programming Package For S7-400 - Siemens SIMATIC S7-400 Configuration And Use Manual

Programming the S7-400
7.1

STEP 7 - the Programming Package for S7-400

Introduction
The software for programming, testing and commissioning SIMATIC S7 is called
STEP 7. STEP 7 comes in programming packages for different ranges of
performance.
Software User Interface
STEP 7 runs under the MS Windows 2000 Professional and MS Windows XP
Professional operating systems and is adapted to their graphic, object-oriented
operation style.
STEP 7 is based on DIN EN 6 1131-3
The STEP 7 programming software is based on the international standard
DIN EN 6 1131-3. This means that STEP 7 has the same appearance as other IEC
programming languages for programmable logic controllers.
Advantage
The advantage of a programming language based on DIN EN 6 1131-3 is how little
time it takes a programmer to become acquainted with it. Programming controllers
from different manufacturers is very similar using these programming languages.
Comprehensive Help for STEP 7
Comprehensive online help is provided to help you to a quick start and support
your work with the various tools. It features context-sensitive instructions as well as
a wide range of reference information.
Program Structure
STEP 7 offers you the option of dividing the user program into separate program
segments. There are a variety of blocks with defined properties for the various
program segments. The blocks can be easily tested and used over and over.
Blocks to Access the System
There are block types for structuring a program, FB (function blocks), FC
(functions) and OB (organization blocks). You do not have to program every
function yourself. You can program communication functions, for example, using
pre-configured blocks that are available in the operating system on the CPUs.
7-2
Automation System S7-400 Configuration and Use
A5E00442711-02