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node-redplcsiemens

Can NodeRed be used as an alternative to SCADA?

I am a beginner in PLC/SCADA and IIOT. I plan to use Siemens PLC S7-1200.

I need to make a very simple application in which I will read analog output from 4 sensors and store it.

I don't need to use any other feature of SCADA like graphical interface, etc.

I am unable to understand if NodeRed is an abstraction over Siemens' SCADA i.e. WinCC

OR

Using this node of Node Red, is it an open source alternative to read/write to Siemens PLC.

My point is: Do I still need to invest in a SCADA license if I use Nodered?

Solution

  • Short and clear answer: No 😀

    NodeRed is open source, free to use and created by IBM (Yep, this is wikipedia). You just need to communicate with it (MQTT, TCP, UDP, OPC UA (This might be what you want for PLC applications), ...)

    Many tutorials on using and connecting a Siemens PLC are available. Just search for "node red siemens s7-1200" and look for whatever tutorial suits you!

    NodeRed and SCADA dont have anything to do with each other directly!