Project specifications for Siemens

[semilogical]

I have to use a Siemens PLC for a project. I am an AB type and have little experience with Siemens on the front end. i.e. specifying what is needed for a project.

Does Siemens have a site that is similar to the AB RFQ that you can build a system with?

I don't know if I need an S7-200 or an S7-300 processor.

The job requires quite a few PID loops for control that will have several loops that are compounded into one output.

I need some direction.

The I/O count is as follows:
5 Thermocouples
9 4-20mA inputs
5 4-20mA outputs
28 Digital Inputs
16 Digital Outputs.

There will be 6 PID control schemes in the system.

Thanks.

Semilogical

 

[Kiljoy]

First, contact your local Siemens Rep. I'm sure they have an applications guy that would sit down with you and go over your options.
Second, the S7-226 would be the most cost effective solution for what you are doing. There is a PID instruction in the MicroWin software, but I've never used it. The S7-300 series is a bit more involved and like going from the AB Micrologix to the AB ControlLogix.
The S7-226 has 24 in and 16 out. There are various expansion modules to fit your needs. The S7-300 requires a few more goodies including special mounting rail, power supply, and bus connectors.