Cold-chain PLC — wide temperature tolerance
The 6ES7215-1AG31-0XB0: Rated for -40 to 70 °C ambient, this CPU runs in refrigerated warehouses and freezers where standard PLCs derate or fail. The 480-hour typical backup time for retentive data and the real-time clock means a power loss over a long weekend won't lose the program or time stamps.
I/O and memory capacity for a medium line
1024 bytes each for process-image inputs and outputs, with 4 Mbyte integrated work memory for code and data. The bit memory address area is 8 kbyte max — enough for most flag-based logic, but a large state machine may need to use DBs instead. Supports up to 16 signal modules dynamically — the CPU auto-configures the backplane as modules are added, no hardware configuration step needed for the slot assignment.
Network and protocol coverage
Native PROFIBUS DP, MODBUS RTU/TCP, Ethernet TCP/IP, and AS-Interface on board. No extra communication processor needed for these protocols — the CPU handles them directly, which simplifies the BOM and the wiring cabinet. UDP is also supported, useful for multicast or custom application-layer protocols over Ethernet.
Safety boundary — no PROFIsafe
PROFIsafe is not supported on this CPU. Any safety-related function — emergency stop, light curtain, safety gate — must go through a separate F-CPU or a hardwired safety relay. This is a standard CPU, not a failsafe variant.
Approvals and compliance documentation
Carries cULus, FM (Factory Mutual) for hazardous locations, UL, and CSA approval. CE mark also present. This covers North American and European installations for industrial control panels, including refrigeration machinery rooms under PSM.