Efficient Motion Control Just Got Smarter: Discover the 9 Powerful Features of Siemens’ S7-1200 G2
- Alan Penticuff
- May 21
- 2 min read
Industrial automation is constantly evolving - and so are the tools that power it. Siemens has raised the bar once again with the new SIMATIC S7-1200 G2, now equipped with nine enhanced motion control functions designed to bring greater precision, synchronization, and efficiency to your operations.
Whether you’re running high-speed conveyors or coordinating multiple axes in complex machinery, these new features give you unprecedented control. Let’s take a closer look at how each one can optimize your motion applications.
🚀 1. Speed Axis
Smooth and consistent motion is critical in systems like conveyors or automated feeders. The Speed Axis feature lets you monitor and control an axis’s speed in real-time, helping maintain steady production rates and reduce mechanical stress.
🎯 2. Positioning Axis
When accuracy is everything, Positioning Axis delivers. It precisely moves an axis to a target position and includes built-in position feedback. This function enhances the repeatability and quality of positioning operations - ideal for packaging, assembly, or pick-and-place tasks.
🔗 3. Synchronous Axis
Need multiple axes to move in harmony? The Synchronous Axis function links one or more follower axes to a master axis—digitally, not mechanically. This enables precise and coordinated motion control for multi-drive systems.
🟡 4. Output Cam
Trigger outputs at exactly the right moment with Output Cam. Perfect for applications where materials need to be applied or processed at specific points along a line. This feature ensures accurate timing based on axis position.
🛤️ 5. Cam Track
Take Output Cam to the next level. Cam Track supports multiple precise switching signals based on axis position - ideal for machines with complex or repetitive switching sequences.
📏 6. Measuring Input
Need to measure or detect the position of items in real time? Measuring Input uses a digital trigger to detect axis or encoder positions on the fly. Great for tracking product locations on conveyors with precision.
🧭 7. External Encoder
With External Encoder, you can monitor externally controlled drives using either incremental or absolute encoders. This adds flexibility for integrating third-party motion systems or retrofitting older equipment.
🛠️ 8. Cam Function
Think of the Cam feature as your custom motion profile builder. It defines the relationship between input and output values - like master axis position vs. follower axis setpoint. This lets you design synchronized and dynamic motion behaviors.
🤖 9. Kinematics
For robotic or articulated systems, Kinematics is a game-changer. It calculates motion setpoints for a tool center point and converts them into motion for individual axes - essential for 2D or 3D handling applications.
💡 Ready to Level Up Your Motion Control?
At elliTek, we don’t just sell Siemens products - we support them. As an Authorized Siemens Distributor, we have four dedicated Applications Engineers ready to help you get the most out of the S7-1200 G2’s motion capabilities for efficient motion control.
Whether you're designing a new system or upgrading an existing one, these nine motion features unlock new possibilities for smarter, more efficient automation.
👉 Need support or want to learn more? Reach out to elliTek’s automation experts today. https://www.ellitek.com/contact-us or (865) 409-1555.
Comments