The Simatic S7-1500 controller family has been extended to include a multifunctional platform (MFP) device. The S7-1518-4 PN/DP MFP controller and a safety-integrated F version each have a Linux-based PC in an S7 PLC. In addition to standard modular controller functions, the MFP coordinates some PC functions into the PLC runtime, including merging of high-level language application in C/C++ and controller program on a single hardware platform; synchronized C/C++ and open-source coding and automation control; model-based software development exporting control code directly into the MFP; and database handling, custom protocol integration and technological functions.
