S7-1500 Data Transfer with SEND/RECEIVE Interface
WinCC IndustrialDataBridge enables fast and flexible data exchange between automation systems and standard IT interfaces such as OPC, databases, and Office formats.
It allows process values to be stored, analysed, or shared across different platforms, including CSV, Excel, or SQL databases.
Application Objective
The example shows how to:
- Export automation data to MS Excel for analysis and reporting
- Read data from an S7-1500 controller
- Transfer values using the SEND/RECEIVE interface
System Architecture
The solution consists of:
- SIMATIC S7-1500 PLC
- TIA Portal project environment
- WinCC with IndustrialDataBridge option
- External data destinations such as Excel or database systems
This structure creates a bridge between operational technology (OT) and IT-level data processing.
Communication Method
Communication is implemented using Siemens communication blocks:
- TCON – establishes the TCP connection
- TSEND – transmits structured data over the connection
These blocks enable the reliable transfer of PLC variables to external systems.
Data Handling Concept
The example prepares structured data (ID, Name, Value) inside the PLC and sends it to the IndustrialDataBridge runtime for processing and export.
The transferred data can then be written into Excel sheets or archived for production tracking and analysis.
Engineering Workflow
Configuration includes:
- Generating runtime configuration for automated data transfer
- Creating the STEP 7 project
- Defining provider and consumer links in IndustrialDataBridge
- Mapping PLC variables to external file columns
Key Benefits
- Easy integration between PLC systems and IT applications
- Enables production data logging and traceability
- Supports analytics and reporting using standard tools
- Reduces the need for custom middleware development
- Ideal for digitalization and Industry 4.0 environments
Typical Use Cases
This solution is commonly used for:
- Production data collection
- Energy monitoring systems
- Quality reporting and traceability
- Connecting PLC systems to MES/databases
- Industrial digitalization projects
