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Logic modules add Ethernet ports and Web servers
Published:  19 February, 2014

At the Hannover Fair in April, Siemens will be unveiling a new generation of its Logo! logic modules, with built-in Ethernet ports and Web servers. The Logo! 8 modules, which replace the current series 6 and 7 devices, are said to be smaller and easier to use, with new functions for remote operation and access, and will offer more digital and analogue I/O as well as improved price-to-performance ratios. The range includes eight new core modules and a variety of add-on devices.

Siemens launched the Logo! modules in the mid-1990s as a new class of device to bridge the gap between PLCs and contactors, auxiliary relays and time switches. They are aimed at simple automation and control duties in both industrial and building applications.

Four of the new basic modules for differing voltages have built-in six-line displays with three adjustable background colours. Messages and status information are said to be more visible and easier to read than before, and fewer abbreviations are needed with each line showing up to 16 characters.

Add-on components include: a six-line text display with 20 characters on each line and four function keys; a four-port Ethernet switch; seven digital modules; three analogue modules; and various power supply modules.

There is also a new module for communications via SMS and GPS, which can be used for position detection, time synchronisation, alarms and remote control via mobile phones.

The new generation of Siemens' Logo! logic controllers are said to be easier to use

The Logo! 8's connections are compatible with previous versions and programs can also be transferred. The devices are configured using the new Soft Comfort V8 software, which helps to create and implement programs quickly and simply. For example, the communication functions of up to 16 network nodes can be defined simply by dragging-and-dropping.

The built-in Web server allows the logic modules to be used for monitoring and controlling via WLANs and the Internet. The server works with all major Web browsers on PCs, smartphones and tablets, regardless of the operating system. Web pages can depict the logic module and external text display, and users do not need any knowledge of HTML programming.