Connect CNC milling machine with Siemens PLC - Siemens S7 communication

Our software offers a flexible and powerful interface for TCP server/client and Modbus TCP client communication. This allows you to connect your CNC machine directly to Siemens PLC - easily, reliably and in real time.

Set-up is particularly simple and takes just two steps:

1. define data channels

Using the administration of the data channels (menu: Extras → Data channels), you can define in just a few steps which information should be sent or received. For example, you can automatically transmit the current X-position of the CNC machine or receive external commands such as „Start job“ and execute them immediately (see Fig. 1).

The following commands are currently available:

  • Transmit position values of the CNC machine (X, Y, Z, A, B, C)
  • Send status code of the CNC machine
  • Send file name
  • Send G-code line
  • Send value of a G-code R parameter
  • Start job on receipt of the value
  • Stop job on receipt of the value
  • Execute reference run on receipt of the value
  • Move to zero point on receipt of the value
  • Move to parking point on receipt of the value
  • Execute macro
  • Receive change of a G-Code-R parameter
  • Reduce speed in the status bar by 10 %
  • Increase speed in the status bar by 10 %
  • Send current speed value of the status bar in per cent

2. Siemens S7 communication (JSON-based)

Siemens S7 controllers can be connected directly via S7 communication. Data is exchanged via data blocks and is fully JSON-configurable. Ideal for structured automation solutions. Siemens S7 PLC (S7-200, S7-300, S7-400, S7-1200, S7-1500) are supported.

The function is available from cncGraF version 8.0.108.

Set up Modbus TCP Client

The connection is created in the dialogue „TCP Server/Client and Modbus TCP Client“ and the desired data channel is assigned via filters (see Fig. 2).

Highlights:

  • Simple configuration of TCP and Modbus connections
  • Direct integration with Siemens PLC and other control systems
  • Flexible package definition with customised separators and markers
  • Support for Modbus holding registers and coils

Whether machine control, process monitoring or automation: With our solution, you can connect your CNC milling machine securely and conveniently via TCP/IP or Modbus TCP.