I am currently working on a project that requires the expansion of a system utilizing Siemens Posmo integrated servo and motor drives. The application is straightforward, consisting of several independent linear indexing mechanisms that do not involve coordinated motion. The programmable logic controller (PLC) in use is an S7-317. From my research, I understand that these drives were launched over a decade ago and operate on a 48V DC servo system that communicates via Profibus DP, mimicking standard cyclic I/O devices. I am contemplating replacing the existing S7-317 controller with a ControlLogix system, which would connect through multiple EtherNet/IP to Profibus DP gateways. This transition has several advantages, including enhanced modularity for improved durability and performance, better integration with surrounding systems, and the capability for future expansions and upgrades. I have a few general inquiries for the PLCTalk community: - Has anyone had hands-on experience with Siemens Posmo integrated servo drives? - Are these drives still available in the United States market? - Were these drives configured using Step7 in conjunction with the S7-300, or was it possible to set them up using Simotion SCOUT or other software via a serial connection? I have encountered documentation suggesting that Posmo controllers can be used with the C2xx family of SIMOTION drive controllers and SCOUT, while other materials indicate compatibility with Step 7. I am particularly interested in knowing if these Posmo drives can function effectively as standalone devices.
While exploring the Siemens website to verify if the product description aligned with a previous model I had used (which it did not), I encountered some obstacles in finding detailed information. It appears that this product is a standalone unit, similar to the Ultra 5000, albeit with an integrated controller and motor. Additionally, there seem to be variations available in the 24V to 600V range. Is your customer considering sticking with a product that has been officially discontinued since June of last year? Based on expert recommendations, it's advisable to steer clear of such situations to ensure continued support and reliability.
Here's the latest information on Posmo A motors: There are two variations available — the Posmo A featuring a 75-watt, 24 VDC option and a more powerful 300-watt, 48 VDC model, both equipped with various gearboxes. These are well-established products in the industry. To configure these drives, you'll primarily utilize SimoCom A software interfaced over Profibus, which is essential for their setup. Additionally, SimoCom A can be integrated with Step7 through a package known as DriveES, or it can function independently. When operating in standalone mode, the Posmo A does offer some built-in I/O capabilities and can manage basic traversing tasks. However, any adjustments to speed or position setpoints require either a Profibus master or SimoCom A software. Moreover, there is a comprehensive library of control function blocks for the Posmo A, compatible with S7300/S7400 or WinAC systems. These blocks facilitate speed control, position control, and the ability to read/write parameters efficiently. If you need manuals or additional resources, feel free to reach out. For those searching for a replacement, the S120MA drive offers a different setup altogether.
Thank you all so much! During this morning’s bidder conference, the other vendors appeared taken aback when I donned a headlamp and crawled beneath the machinery to retrieve the part numbers from the servos. We’re dealing with 48V DC drives rated at 300 watts. It turns out that there are 120 of these drives linked in daisy-chain configurations, utilizing eight Turck DP/DP repeaters. The S7-317-2DP has two channels, providing ample Profibus node numbers for our setup. I appreciate the insights regarding the software used for programming these drives and its integration with the S7 system. My sole experience with Siemens motion control has been with Simotion Scout, so I’ll need to acquire and familiarize myself with SimoCom. A.JRW, when you connected a computer to the Profibus for drive configuration, were you directly linked to the Profibus DP along with the PLC scanner (similar to using a PCMCIA card), or did you connect to the PLC via Ethernet (with a CP343-1 module) and configure through that “pass-through” method?
KenSimocom A is available for free download. I have successfully connected to the Posmo using both methods: via Step 7 "routing" and directly through Profibus. However, I haven't tested the connection using a DP/DP coupler. If you plan to undertake this retrofit, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the Profibus PPO telegram for the Posmo. You will need a solid understanding of PKW and PZD data. For more information, you can access the comprehensive guide here: https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/document/49345061/simocoma-version-v5-05-01?dti=0&lc=en-US.
A year has passed, and I’m finally rolling out this project. I recently acquired a Hilscher NT50-MPI standalone Ethernet/Profibus DP gateway device, which involves a lot of setup. To get things started, I had to work with Hilscher's IP driver, use the SyCON Basic configuration utility (not to be confused with SyCON.net), and implement a PC/PG driver from IBH Softec. The biggest challenge was getting SIMOCOM A software to recognize the driver. After nearly two frustrating days filled with "PROFIBUS ERROR" messages each time I attempted to connect, I discovered that the “Access Point” needed to be set to “S7ONLINE,” similar to what is used in Step7. The default Access Point, CP_L2_1, is typically used for network access through SIMATIC NET, and it is important not to use the standard MPI Access Point from WinCC. Now that I’ve sorted this out, I can delve deeper into the multi-master configurations and the various data blocks related to this servo system. Once everything is operational, I plan to share my findings on the IBH Softec Wiki. A big thank you, albeit somewhat late, for the assistance in this endeavor!
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