7MH3105-1CC0 SIEMENS Communication module

Siemens Communication Modules (CMs) and Communications Processors (CPs) are modular interface components that supplement the basic communication ports of the main PLC (such as the SIMATIC S7 series). They are plug-in modules that integrate seamlessly with the automation system via the backplane bus.

Communication Modules (CMs) are typically used for establishing point-to-point (PtP) connections or specific fieldbus connections where the main CPU handles the bulk of the communication processing.

Communications Processors (CPs) are more powerful modules designed to offload complex communication tasks (like Industrial Ethernet protocols, Telecontrol, or IT functions) from the main PLC CPU, thereby enhancing overall system performance and providing specialized functionality.

The primary function is to enable data exchange between the automation system and other control devices, the IT world, or external networks.

Product Parameters

Product Advantages

1. Versatile Connectivity: Provides highly flexible options to connect to a wide array of industrial and non-industrial networks, including legacy systems, modern Ethernet infrastructures, and wide area networks (WAN).
2. Scalability and Flexibility: Allows users to easily expand the communication capabilities of the controller based on specific project needs without changing the core CPU.
3. Performance Optimization: Communications Processors (CPs) offload communication tasks, ensuring the main PLC CPU maintains optimal performance for high-speed, deterministic control tasks.
4. Integration of IT and OT: Facilitates the seamless exchange of data between the Operational Technology (OT) level and the Information Technology (IT) world, supporting concepts like Industrial IoT (IIoT) and Industry 4.0.
5. Security Features: Often includes integrated security functions such as firewall capabilities, secure remote access, and support for secure communication protocols (e.g., VPN, SSL/TLS, IPsec).
6. Simplified Engineering: Modules are fully integrated into the TIA Portal engineering framework, allowing for consistent configuration, diagnostics, and management from a single platform.

Important Notes

• Protocol Compatibility: The correct communication module must be selected based on the specific protocol and network role (Master/Slave) required for the application.
• Addressing and Configuration: Proper network addressing, parameter assignment, and configuration within the engineering software are critical for successful data exchange.
• Power and Slot Limits: PLCs have limits on the total number of communication and expansion modules that can be added and the maximum current they can supply via the backplane bus.
• Industrial Security: When connecting the automation system to external or IT networks, a robust and holistic industrial security concept, utilizing the security features of the CPs, must be implemented.
• Environmental Ratings: While built for industrial environments, ensure the module’s specified temperature, humidity, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) ratings meet the installation site requirements.

Product Applications

1. Field Device Integration: Connecting the PLC to decentralized I/O devices, motor starters, sensors, and actuators via common fieldbus networks.
2. Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Communication: Enabling controllers in different machines or production cells to exchange data directly for coordinated processes and line control.
3. Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA): Providing the link to higher-level HMI/SCADA systems for visualization, archiving, and process monitoring.
4. Remote Maintenance and Telecontrol: Establishing secure connections over WANs or mobile networks (using GSM/LTE/5G) for remote diagnostics, maintenance, and control of geographically dispersed plants (e.g., water/wastewater, pipelines).
5. Cloud and Enterprise Connectivity: Implementing protocols like FTP, email, or direct database connections to transfer production data to Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), cloud services, or corporate IT infrastructure.
6. Legacy System Interfacing: Utilizing modules for serial communications (RS-232/485) to connect older or proprietary equipment that does not support modern industrial protocols.