Siemens SIMATIC controllers

What it is

SIMATIC is Siemens' family of industrial automation products, best known for its programmable logic controllers (PLCs), the rugged computers that control machines and production lines. The SIMATIC name was registered as a trademark on 2 April 1958. The S5 series followed in 1979 and the S7 series in 1994. Newer generations, the S7-1200 and S7-1500, are programmed with the TIA Portal engineering software launched in 2011.

How it works

A PLC reads signals from sensors, such as switches, light barriers and temperature probes, runs a control programme in a fixed cycle and switches outputs such as motors, valves and drives. Engineers write the programme in standardised languages that resemble electrical circuit diagrams or structured text. SIMATIC controllers are modular, so input and output modules, communication interfaces and safety functions can be added as needed. They connect to supervisory systems, operator panels and, increasingly, to cloud and data platforms.

Why it stands out

SIMATIC is one of the most widely used PLC families in the world and a foundation of industrial automation in Europe and beyond. Many engineers learn to programme on SIMATIC, which creates a large ecosystem of skills, spare parts and compatible equipment. The system is a key part of Siemens' strategy for the digital factory, linking automation hardware with simulation and software. It shows how German engineering became embedded in the infrastructure of modern manufacturing.

Where you meet it

SIMATIC controllers are found in car plants, food and beverage factories, water treatment works, pharmaceutical production, warehouses and building systems. They usually sit out of sight in control cabinets, but they keep production lines, conveyors and pumps running.