Based on a deep understanding of the pain points in China’s manufacturing sector, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Siemens recognizes that SMEs require not only reliable PLC and HMI products but also comprehensive support spanning the entire process from R&D to production and operations. The SMART series of compact automation products embodies this philosophy. By upgrading hardware for multi-scenario adaptability, leveraging localized services to lower application barriers, and integrating ecosystems to connect industrial chain data links, it ultimately helps partners transition from “equipment suppliers” to “solution providers,” uncovering new value growth points amid shifting market demands.

Innovation + Scenario-Driven Technology Upgrades

Regarding user demands for compact automation products:For PLCs, PID control, motion control, and high-speed counters are the most frequently used functions. User improvement requests focus on three key areas: enhanced communication capabilities, support for more industrial protocols, and improved motion control performance. For HMIs, communication interfaces, alarm diagnostics, and remote debugging are the top three functionalities users prioritize. Additionally, users expect HMIs to feature larger, higher-resolution screens, enhanced integration with cloud platforms and mobile devices, and the addition of predictive maintenance capabilities.

The innovations in Siemens’ SMART series of compact automation products are precisely developed based on these real-world user scenarios and pain points. Take the latest versions, the S7-200 SMART PLC V3.0 and SMART LINE V5, as examples: The S7-200 SMART PLC V3.0 features a dual-network port design, enabling simultaneous connection to programming devices and PROFINET devices, eliminating the inefficient practice of frequently switching network cables on-site; It supports dual signal boards and up to 8 expansion modules (2 more than the previous generation), allowing flexible combinations of digital, analog, and thermoresistor modules. This meets the temperature measurement needs of environmental water treatment, sterile parameter acquisition requirements in food and beverage, and high-precision control demands in automotive component manufacturing. Crucially, these upgrades enhance the product’s overall cost-effectiveness, precisely aligning with the cost-sensitive demands of small and medium-sized enterprises.

Service + Full Lifecycle Localized Support

The SMART series of compact automation products are locally developed and manufactured, backed by dedicated sales support teams. These teams engage with enterprises from the initial requirements discussion phase, immersing themselves in production environments to tailor solutions based on industry characteristics and workflow processes. For unexpected failures, Siemens provides 24/7 remote telephone support. Extended product warranty services are also available, reducing long-term equipment maintenance costs and making automation upgrades more cost-effective. Furthermore, Siemens regularly organizes product training sessions, delivering hands-on instruction to partners’ technical teams

Ecosystem + Enhanced Industry Chain Collaboration

Facing the challenge of slowing market demand growth, Siemens is committed to building an open ecosystem. Through close collaboration with upstream and downstream enterprises and partners, it integrates resources to provide comprehensive support for users, driving joint industry development and achieving collaborative win-win outcomes.

Siemens establishes an intelligent hardware foundation with the S7-200 SMART PLC + SMART LINE HMI. Solutions are rapidly implemented using the SMART COOL application example library, while the SIMICAS platform connects global equipment data. This comprehensive solution helps customers adapt to global technical standards, significantly shortens production line debugging cycles, and enables equipment fault response coverage across multiple markets.

In future competition, only enterprises that collaborate with partners, empower the industrial chain, and continuously create systemic value will truly transcend economic cycles and achieve sustainable development.

In China, VOGI INTERNATIONAL TRADING COMPANY will continue to uphold the philosophy of “Serving global customers from China,” empowering manufacturers, engineering firms, and trading companies worldwide to seize opportunities amid challenges and achieve breakthroughs through transformation.