Is there any difference in programming of S7 300 and S7 1200 PLC?

Is there any difference in programming of S7 300 and S7 1200 PLC?

Yes, there are notable differences in programming between Siemens S7-300 and S7-1200 PLCs, primarily due to their different design purposes and software environments:

  1. Programming Software:
  • S7-300: Typically programmed in Step 7 (Simatic Manager), though later versions can use TIA Portal.
  • S7-1200: Uses TIA Portal as its main programming environment, which offers a more integrated interface with updated features.
  1. Instruction Set and Language:
  • S7-300: Has a traditional instruction set compatible with older Siemens PLCs.
  • S7-1200: Includes newer instructions and more standardized IEC languages, making it easier to learn and adapt for recent projects.
  1. Data Types and Addressing:
  • S7-300: Uses more complex addressing conventions, which can be less intuitive.
  • S7-1200: Introduces simplified addressing and symbolic names, which help in developing more readable code.
  1. Functional Differences:
  • The S7-1200 includes some features geared toward smaller, modular systems, including more integrated functions for communication and diagnostics, while the S7-300 may need additional modules for similar functionality.

These differences impact both usability and the learning curve, with the S7-1200 providing a more modern, streamlined experience due to the TIA Portal and updated instruction set