Siemens 505 PLC: Availability, Parts, Software, and Ownership

Question:

Hello, I am interested in obtaining information about the Siemens 505 PLC. I am aware that Siemens no longer produces it. Is the Siemens 505 PLC still being manufactured? Can you provide parts such as Input/Output Cards, Power Supplies, and CPUs for this PLC? What software is required for programming it, and is there a newer version available? Lastly, who is the current owner of the Siemens 505 PLC? Thank you for your assistance.

Top Replies

Control Technology Inc. manufactures a PLC that is compatible with the TI505 model. Their website, CTI - Home, showcases their 1-for-1 compatible CPUs, power supplies, I/O and communication modules, alongside newly developed modules. Originally run on DOS, the TI505's software, TISOFT, has now been replaced by 505 Workshop from FastTrak Softworks Inc. Siemens acquired the TI505 PLC division from Texas Instruments in 1988, with the product being declared mature in 2005. Explore Siemens Simatic 505 PLC Programming Software at FasTrak SoftWorks, Inc. SIOS.

Siemens retains ownership of the brand "TI505", which was discontinued in 2016. Despite the discontinuation, repairs are still available through Siemens at potentially high costs. For more information, visit SIOSsupport.industry.siemens.com.

During the 80's and early 90's, I was a devoted fan of TI technology. However, after Siemens acquired TI PLC, progress seemed to come to a halt. Even though they introduced profibus support on the hardware side, it felt like development had slowed down. It seems that Siemens may have been more interested in acquiring TI for their valuable software and firmware. In addition to TiSoft, TI also had a software called APT which featured function blocks and CFC's (Continuous Function Charts). Interestingly, these components were later incorporated into the development of PCS7. I remember attending a training session on PCS7 where the instructor was unable to explain why the PID control block used MV for the output instead of CV. This was something I knew because it was the terminology used by TI. CTI also played a significant role in the evolution of TI technology, particularly by producing communication modules for the 505 series while Siemens was still selling them. When Siemens eventually discontinued the line, CTI stepped in with newer and faster controllers.

Did you attend a class in Johnson City for that? It was there that I experienced my first Step 7 course.

Ken Moore shared his opinion, suggesting that Siemens may have acquired TI for its valuable software and firmware. Conversely, JRW mentioned hearing that the acquisition was motivated by the distributor network that TI offered, rather than building one from the ground up. On a related note, JRW asked if the other person attended a class in Johnson City, TN, for Step 7 training, as they had done. Additionally, there was mention of previous belief that PCS7 training was typically held in Pennsylvania, not in Tennessee.

Hey there! The Siemens 505 PLC, unfortunately, has been discontinued for quite some time now, and finding new parts like I/O cards and CPUs can be quite a challenge. You might have better luck checking online marketplaces or specialty suppliers for used or refurbished components. As for programming, it typically requires the Siemens 505 programming software, which may not be easily accessible now since it's no longer supported. There isn’t a direct "newer version" of the 505, but Siemens has a range of modern PLCs (like the S7 series) that would be worth considering if you’re planning an upgrade. Lastly, the Siemens 505 is part of the legacy systems, so you'll find discussions mostly in retroautomation circles, but it’s best to check with Siemens for information about current ownership or support. Hope this helps!

Hey there! You're right that Siemens has phased out the 505 PLC, and it can be quite tricky to find new parts like I/O cards and power supplies since they’re no longer in production. There are still some second-hand and refurbished options available through various industrial suppliers or online marketplaces, but they might be harder to come by. For programming, the software typically used is STEP 5, though it’s becoming increasingly rare to find. If you're looking for newer alternatives, you might want to explore the newer Siemens S7 series, which offers more advanced features and better support. As for ownership, Siemens still holds the brand, but since the PLC is obsolete, support is minimal. Hope this helps you navigate your options!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Is the Siemens 505 PLC still being manufactured?

Answer: - No, Siemens no longer produces the Siemens 505 PLC.

FAQ: 2. Are parts such as Input/Output Cards, Power Supplies, and CPUs available for the Siemens 505 PLC?

Answer: - While Siemens no longer manufactures the PLC, third-party vendors may still offer parts. It's recommended to check with industrial automation suppliers for availability.

FAQ: 3. What software is required for programming the Siemens 505 PLC, and is there a newer version available?

Answer: - The Siemens 505 PLC typically uses Step 5 software for programming. As for newer versions, Siemens has transitioned to the Step 7 software for their current PLC lineup.

FAQ: 4. Who is the current owner of the Siemens 505 PLC?

Answer: - As Siemens no longer manufactures the Siemens 505 PLC, ownership and support for existing units may vary. It's advisable to contact Siemens or authorized distributors for specific inquiries.

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