PLC programming and simulation with TIA Portal software

This thesis provides an in-depth overview of Siemens' Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) Portal software suite for managing automation projects. TIA Portal consolidates hardware configuration, controller programming, HMI visualization, simulation, and other engineering tasks into a unified platform aimed at maximizing workflow efficiency. The document examines key capabilities including PLC programming with IEC 61131-3 languages, HMI screen design, system diagnostics, version control, and reusable libraries. It outlines the complete automation project lifecycle enabled within TIA Portal from initial design through commissioning and subsequent maintenance. The thesis reviews core PLC programming concepts using TIA Portal such as organization blocks, ladder logic diagrams, function blocks, data types, timers, counters, math operations, and instruction lists. HMI visualization techniques are covered encompassing integrated tag sharing between PLC and HMI, graphical screen design, object animation, alarms, trends, recipes, and multi-language text. Troubleshooting features of TIA Portal are explored including cross-referencing, trace functionality, and network diagnostics. Advanced programming methods, deployment considerations, documentation practices, and remote access capabilities are also analyzed. Three example applications demonstrate TIA Portal's capabilities for sequential motor activation, conveyor control, and analog sensor measurement.