To create a new PLC connection, select the item “Controllers” in the menu on the left and click on “Create new PLC” in the upper right-hand corner.
After that, you have five options:
1 – Copy PLC
This option allows you to create a new PLC connection with the settings and variables of an existing connection.
2 – [MB] Simulator
The [MB] simulator gives you the opportunity to test the functions and processes of the DataSuite even without a Siemens PLC. This is a purely internal simulator. This means that no connection can be established to it from outside. It is also important to know that this is not the same as the simulator known from TIA Portal.
3 – PLC – Put/Get
With this option, you can integrate a real S7 controller of your choice into the software. All S7 controllers with an Ethernet or Profinet connection are supported.
A list of the supported models can be found in chapter 0.
4 – PLC – OPC UA
With this option, you can establish an OPC UA connection to your PLC. The PLC acts as an OPC UA server. This must be activated in the PLC beforehand.
5 – OPC UA Server
With this option you can establish an OPC UA connection to any OPC UA server. All variables of the server are available via the Node Browser.
Difference between PLC – OPC UA and OPC UA Server
The two connection types are very similar. The PLC – OPC UA type is based on the OPC UA Server and is specially optimized for use with Siemens controllers to enable easier data access.
