STEP 7 and SIMATIC Manager are actually closely related, but with a key difference in their timeline and functionality:
SIMATIC Manager:
- The Classic Option: SIMATIC Manager is the older software environment used for programming Siemens S7 PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers).
- Version Focus: The latest version of SIMATIC Manager is v5.5, and while still supported by Siemens, it's not the active development platform anymore.
STEP 7:
- The Evolving Platform: STEP 7 is the broader term for the S7 PLC programming environment. It encompasses both the classic version (with SIMATIC Manager) and the newer, more feature-rich version within the TIA Portal.
- Modern Development: The current iteration of STEP 7 is part of the TIA Portal (Totally Integrated Automation Portal), which offers a more integrated development environment for PLCs, HMIs (Human-Machine Interfaces), and other automation components. Versions after v5.5 fall under this category.
In essence:
- STEP 7 is the overall platform, encompassing both the classic and modern versions.
- SIMATIC Manager represents the classic version of STEP 7 (v5.5 and below).
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | SIMATIC Manager (Classic STEP 7) | STEP 7 (TIA Portal) |
|---|---|---|
| Version Range | Up to v5.5 | v11 and above |
| Development Status | No longer actively developed | Actively developed |
| Development Environment | Standalone application | Integrated TIA Portal |
If you're starting fresh with Siemens PLCs, then STEP 7 within the TIA Portal is the recommended option due to its ongoing development and wider range of features.
For existing projects using SIMATIC Manager, it will still function for programming and maintenance purposes, but you won't have access to the latest functionalities of the TIA Portal.