The IBH SoftPLC S7-315 / S7-416 executes a program in the same manner as a hardware PLC. The advantage of executing a PLC program this way is, that the PLC status can be displayed in real time. Since the Soft PLC behaves like a original SIMATIC PLC, the programming tools S7 for Windows® and STEP7 can be used. Online connections can be established serial, via Ethernet, via PROFIBUS DP and directly on the same PC. Even for project engineering and diagnostics of the PROFIBUS DP S7 for Windows® or the original STEP7 tool can be used. The program of a S7-PLC or a Siemens WinAC SoftPLC including PROFIBUS DP configuration can be transferred to the SoftPLC S7-315 / S7-416. Data exchange with the SoftPLC can be established with S7 for Windows® or Siemens STEP7. If the programming system is installed on the same PC, the SoftPLC can be reached directly. The necessary drivers are included. Alternatively data exchange can be established via serial interface using a zero-modem cable. If a Hilscher CIF30/50/60 PROFIBUS card is used, the SoftPLC can be programmed or reached from an operator panel via the connected PROFIBSU, if the drivers are correctly configured.