Key Takeaways
- Siemens introduces ladder programming to Simatic AX Logic Control Engineering (LCE) tool
- XLad is the first graphical programming language in Simatic AX LCE, aimed at making software-defined automation accessible to a wider range of industrial users
- The update supports the Simatic S7-1200 G2 controller generation and combines operational technology (OT)-oriented programming with IT-style workflows
- The addition of ladder programming reduces onboarding time, simplifies troubleshooting, and supports collaboration between OT and IT users
Introduction to Simatic AX LCE Updates
Siemens has announced significant updates to its Simatic AX Logic Control Engineering (LCE) tool, designed to expand the reach of software-defined automation to a broader range of industrial users. The updates include the introduction of ladder programming through XLad, the first graphical programming language in Simatic AX LCE, and support for the Simatic S7-1200 G2 controller generation.
Making IT-like Engineering More Accessible for OT Users
Until now, Simatic AX Logic Control Engineering has been primarily used by software-focused automation engineers who are familiar with Structured Text (ST)-based engineering environments. With the addition of ladder programming, Siemens is extending the tool to service and maintenance technicians, as well as engineers who prefer graphical logic representation for control programs. This update can reduce onboarding time by up to 30%, simplify troubleshooting by 25%, and support collaboration between OT and IT users in automation workflows.
Bringing Software Workflows to Industrial Automation
XLad is a text-based ladder programming tool integrated into Simatic AX Logic Control Engineering, adding software development practices such as version control, automated testing, and continuous integration to ladder logic workflows. With support for Git and CI/CD workflows, users can manage ladder logic changes, collaborate across teams, and support software quality in engineering. The interaction of XLad with Structured Text (ST) allows users to reuse libraries created in ST within ladder logic applications, resulting in a 20% increase in productivity.
Comparison of Programming Languages
| Programming Language | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Ladder Programming (XLad) | Graphical programming language | Reduces onboarding time, simplifies troubleshooting, and supports collaboration |
| Structured Text (ST) | Text-based programming language | Supports software development practices, version control, and automated testing |
| Object-Oriented Programming | Programming paradigm | Increases productivity, reusability, and maintainability of code |
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the introduction of ladder programming to Simatic AX Logic Control Engineering (LCE) tool is a significant update that expands the reach of software-defined automation to a broader range of industrial users. With the addition of XLad, Siemens is providing a more accessible and collaborative platform for OT and IT users to work together, reducing onboarding time, simplifying troubleshooting, and increasing productivity. As the industrial automation landscape continues to evolve, Siemens' commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction is evident in this update, which is expected to benefit over 10,000 industrial users worldwide.