Siemens SIMATIC S7-300_-400 PLC Automation Skills

Course Overview

The Siemens SIMATIC S7-300/-400 PLC Automation Skills training offered by Pideya Learning Academy provides an in-depth understanding of automation technology using Siemens STEP7 software. This specialized course is designed to help professionals elevate their automation expertise and stay ahead in the fast-evolving field of industrial automation. With industrial automation projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 9.8% by 2030, mastering SIMATIC S7-300/-400 PLC systems is crucial for engineers, technicians, and programmers aiming to optimize operations and boost productivity. Today, more than 60% of manufacturers worldwide have adopted automation systems based on Siemens PLCs, reflecting the growing demand for professionals skilled in this technology.

This course builds on foundational programming knowledge and focuses on structured programming, diagnostic techniques, and system integration. Participants will explore advanced programming concepts, learning to develop scalable and reliable automation solutions using STEP7. Through a structured learning approach, the training covers key aspects of project design, configuration, and system troubleshooting to ensure participants gain comprehensive automation skills that can be applied across diverse industrial settings.

A core element of this training is the Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) framework, where participants learn to integrate S7-300/-400 PLCs with remote I/O systems for seamless communication and control. The course also delves into memory management, reusable blocks, and advanced instruction sets—critical skills for optimizing automation systems.

Participants will be introduced to various programming languages, including Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram (FBD), and Statement List (STL), giving them the flexibility to choose the most suitable language for different applications. Advanced instruction techniques, such as parameter-passing and symbolic addressing, will also be covered to enhance programming efficiency. These skills will enable participants to implement robust automation projects, minimize downtime, and improve system performance.

Key highlights of the Siemens SIMATIC S7-300/-400 PLC Automation Skills training include:

Mastery of advanced STEP7 programming techniques, including structured and symbolic programming.

Comprehensive knowledge of Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) and its application in modern industries.

Hands-on learning through the development and testing of complete automation projects in simulated environments.

Troubleshooting strategies using diagnostic tools to quickly identify and resolve system issues.

Advanced data management, including the creation of Organization Blocks (OBs), Function Blocks (FBs), and custom library blocks.

Flexibility in programming using Ladder Logic, FBD, and STL for a wide range of industrial automation needs.

Integration of S7-300/-400 PLCs with remote I/O stations for enhanced system communication and control.

Participants will gain a deep understanding of automation architecture, learning how to design, configure, and maintain an integrated automation environment. In addition to programming, the course emphasizes system diagnostics and performance optimization, equipping participants with the tools to keep automation systems running at peak efficiency.

At Pideya Learning Academy, we prioritize interactive and practical learning experiences that simulate real-world challenges. Participants will engage in group discussions, scenario-based exercises, and knowledge-sharing sessions to reinforce their learning and ensure they develop problem-solving and analytical skills essential for today’s automation landscape. Each module is designed to provide actionable insights that participants can apply directly in their professional roles.

By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to handle complex automation tasks, from system design to ongoing maintenance and optimization. They will have a clear understanding of the latest trends in Siemens SIMATIC S7-300/-400 PLC technology and the practical application of best practices in automation engineering. Completing this Pideya Learning Academy training ensures participants remain competitive and capable of contributing to the success of their organizations.

For organizations, this training is a strategic investment in building a competent workforce capable of driving automation initiatives, reducing operational risks, and improving productivity. With automation being the future of industries, developing these critical skills can significantly enhance business operations.

Course Objectives

After completing this Pideya Learning Academy training, participants will learn to:

Configure, parameterize, communicate, direct, and commission a Totally Integrated Automation system.

Program, document, verify, test, and troubleshoot structured STEP7 programs.

Utilize absolute and symbolic addressing in programming.

Develop Organization Blocks (OBs), Function Blocks (FBs), Function Calls (FCs), and library blocks using core application instructions.

Program binary, digital, and analog processing functions.

Create and manage reusable blocks with parameter-passing techniques.

Cross-reference program call structures and compare online to offline programs effectively.

Training Methodology

At Pideya Learning Academy, our training methodology is designed to create an engaging and impactful learning experience that empowers participants with the knowledge and confidence to excel in their professional roles. Our approach combines dynamic instructional techniques with interactive learning strategies to maximize knowledge retention and application.

Key elements of the training methodology include:

Engaging Multimedia Presentations: Visually rich presentations with audio-visual elements to simplify complex concepts and ensure clarity.

Interactive Group Discussions: Participants engage in thought-provoking discussions, sharing insights and perspectives to enhance understanding and collaboration.

Scenario-Based Learning: Real-world scenarios are introduced to contextualize theoretical knowledge, enabling participants to relate it to their work environment.

Collaborative Activities: Team-based exercises encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and the exchange of innovative ideas.

Expert Facilitation: Experienced trainers provide in-depth explanations, guiding participants through intricate topics with clarity and precision.

Reflective Learning: Participants are encouraged to reflect on key takeaways and explore ways to incorporate newly acquired knowledge into their professional practices.

Structured Learning Pathway: The course follows a “Discover-Reflect-Implement” structure, ensuring a systematic progression through topics while reinforcing key concepts at every stage.

This dynamic methodology fosters a stimulating environment that keeps participants engaged, encourages active participation, and ensures that the concepts are firmly understood and can be effectively utilized in their professional endeavors. With a focus on fostering a deeper connection between learning and application, Pideya Learning Academy empowers participants to unlock their potential and drive impactful outcomes in their roles.

Organizational Benefits

Organizations that nominate their employees for this training can expect:

Enhanced technical expertise in SIMATIC S7 300/400 PLC systems.

Improved standards development and implementation for automation systems.

Application of case studies and examples tailored to the organization’s needs.

Employees equipped with clear roles and responsibilities in automation workflows.

Personal Benefits

Participants will gain:

Up-to-date knowledge of SIMATIC S7 300/400 PLC automation advancements.

Hands-on experience with automation tools and techniques.

Certification by Pideya Learning Academy, recognizing their skill development.

Practical solutions to challenges encountered in industrial automation.

Who Should Attend?

This training is ideal for:

Programmers, commissioning engineers, and configuring engineers.

Instrumentation, control, and maintenance engineers.

Electrical and industry electronics technicians.

Mechatronic and industrial mechatronic technicians.

Service staff managing PLC systems and seeking advanced programming skills.

Prerequisites

Participants should have:

Proficiency in using MS Windows operating systems (Windows 2000/XP).

Basic knowledge of PLC systems and prior practical experience.

Course Outline

Module 1: SIMATIC Project Management

Creating, deleting, saving, archiving, and retrieving projects in STEP 7

Organizing and managing STEP 7 projects effectively

Configuring and setting up communication interfaces: MPI, PROFIBUS, PROFINET, Ethernet

Establishing online connections using accessible devices

Module 2: Integrated Hardware Configuration

Configuring and commissioning an S7 rack-based system

Parametrizing remote IO and other hardware components

Assigning module addresses and parameter blocks

Using variable and force tables for testing

Module 3: Fundamentals of Automation Programming

Programming organizational units: OBs, FCs, FBs, DBs

Structured programming techniques and modular design

Addressing schemes for inputs, outputs, and memory areas

Using LAD, FBD, and STL programming editors for code development

Downloading, debugging, and monitoring program blocks

Module 4: Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

Differentiating between system and functional errors

Utilizing diagnostic and debugging tools in SIMATIC environments

Interpreting diagnostic buffer and error logs

Debugging faulty program blocks

Module 5: Advanced Addressing and Symbol Management

Symbolic vs absolute addressing in projects

Configuring and updating symbols in hardware and software editors

Linking symbol tables to hardware configurations

Module 6: Data Handling in STEP 7

Designing and managing data blocks (DBs)

Using advanced data types: elementary, composite, and user-defined types

Addressing and accessing data elements dynamically

Retentive and non-retentive data initialization

Module 7: Binary Logic Operations

Logic gates: AND, OR, XOR applications in automation

Configuring coil assignments: set, reset, and midline operations

Implementing flip-flops and signal edge detections

Module 8: Instruction-Level Programming with STL

Understanding bit status (STA) and result logic operations (RLO)

Applying STL instructions: logical, arithmetic, and signal edge detection

Analyzing accumulator behavior in real-time

Monitoring and debugging STL code

Module 9: Advanced Digital Operations

Mathematical functions and comparison operations in automation

Data type conversions and checking for compatibility

Configuring and monitoring SIMATIC timers

Implementing complex logic operations

Module 10: Reference Data and Program Analysis

Utilizing reference tools for program navigation

Filtering, sorting, and locating project data efficiently

Managing program dependencies and structure

Comparing project versions and block statuses

Module 11: Modular and Reusable Block Design

Utilizing local variables and block interface areas

Managing reusable function and function block instances

Updating and checking reusable block interfaces

Ensuring program consistency across blocks

Module 12: Analog Signal Processing

Configuring and setting up analog-to-digital converter modules

Calibrating and scaling analog input/output signals

Managing measuring ranges for analog devices

Setting up physical module parameters in STEP 7

Module 13: Organization Block Management

Overview of different types of OBs: startup, cyclic, diagnostic, hardware interrupt

Controlling interrupt behaviors using system functions

Customizing OBs for synchronous and asynchronous error handling

Exercises: Startup configurations using OB100

Module 14: System Maintenance and Upgrades

Replacing critical components: backup batteries, CPUs, power supply modules

Swapping digital/analog modules during system operation

Managing fan assembly: fuses, filters, and PCBs

Performing real-time maintenance for uninterrupted operation

Module 15: Advanced Safety and Redundancy

Configuring redundancy for CPU and communication modules

Implementing fail-safe logic in STEP 7 programs

Troubleshooting safety PLCs and safety-related errors

Integrating safety and standard automation functions

Module 16: Industrial Networking

Setting up industrial Ethernet and PROFINET networks

Configuring and diagnosing PROFIBUS communication issues

Managing network topology and addressing in automation systems

Monitoring network performance and resolving communication faults