What is included in a control panel design?

A control panel design can include the control-system architecture, component selection, electrical schematics, panel layouts, I/O schedules, cable sizing, thermal calculations, terminal plans and manufacturing documentation.

Which design software does Stratos use?

Stratos uses both EPLAN and AutoCAD Electrical. The most appropriate platform depends on the project requirements, customer standards and existing documentation.

Do you provide control panel design as a standalone service?

Yes. Stratos can provide control panel design and electrical documentation as a standalone engineering service or as part of a complete design, manufacture, programming and commissioning project.

What is an I/O schedule?

An I/O schedule is a structured list of the inputs and outputs connected to a PLC. It records information such as device descriptions, signal types, PLC addresses, module channels and terminal references.

Why are thermal calculations required for a control panel?

Thermal calculations help determine whether the heat generated by the electrical components can be safely dissipated. They can identify whether ventilation, cooling or a larger enclosure is required.

How is cable size determined?

Cable size is determined by factors including the design current, cable length, voltage drop, protective-device rating, installation method, ambient temperature and fault-current requirements.

Can you redesign an existing control panel?

Yes. Stratos can review existing panels, drawings and control systems to develop an updated design for refurbishment, modernisation or complete replacement.

Can you design the PLC system as well as the electrical panel?

Yes. Stratos provides integrated electrical and automation engineering, including PLC hardware selection, I/O design, PLC programming, HMI development and wider control-system integration.

Siemens PLC Programming UK

Siemens PLC Programming for Reliable Industrial Automation

Siemens PLCs are among the most widely used automation platforms in the world, providing dependable control for manufacturing, processing and industrial applications. Whether you're developing a new control system, upgrading existing equipment or modifying production processes, professionally developed PLC software is essential for safe, reliable and efficient operation.

At Stratos, we provide Siemens PLC programming services tailored to your operational requirements. From new machine development and process automation to system upgrades and optimisation, our engineers develop robust PLC software that delivers reliable performance and long-term maintainability.

Expert Siemens PLC Programming

Every industrial process has unique operational requirements.

Our Siemens PLC programming services include:
• New PLC software development.
• Existing program modifications.
• Process optimisation.
• Machine automation.
• Production line control.
• Software migration.
• Fault diagnosis.
• Performance improvements.

Each program is developed using structured engineering principles to improve reliability, readability and future maintenance.

Siemens Platforms We Support

We work across a wide range of Siemens automation platforms, including:
• SIMATIC S7-1200.
• SIMATIC S7-1500.
• SIMATIC S7-300.
• SIMATIC S7-400.
• ET 200 distributed I/O.
• SIMATIC WinCC.
• SIMATIC HMI panels.
• TIA Portal engineering software.

Whether modernising an existing installation or developing a new control system, we can support both current and legacy Siemens platforms.

Custom PLC Software Development

Every PLC program is designed around the specific requirements of your equipment and production process.

Our software development considers:
• Process sequences.
• Machine operation.
• Safety interlocks.
• Alarm management.
• Operator interaction.
• Communication with field devices.
• Future expansion.
• Maintainability.

Developing software around your application ensures reliable and efficient automation throughout the system lifecycle.

Integration with Industrial Automation Systems

Modern Siemens PLCs form the centre of many industrial automation systems.

Our engineers can integrate Siemens PLCs with:
• Human Machine Interfaces (HMIs).
• SCADA systems.
• Variable Speed Drives (VSDs).
• Servo systems.
• Motor Control Centres (MCCs).
• Industrial Ethernet networks.
• Remote monitoring solutions.
• Third-party automation equipment.

This creates a fully integrated automation solution that improves visibility, productivity and operational control.

PLC Upgrades and Modernisation

Many organisations continue to operate ageing Siemens PLC systems that are approaching the end of their supported lifecycle.

We help customers modernise existing Siemens installations through:
• PLC hardware upgrades.
• Software migration.
• Legacy system replacement.
• Communication upgrades.
• HMI improvements.
• Documentation updates.
• Functional enhancements.
• System optimisation.

A planned upgrade strategy reduces operational risk while improving reliability and long-term support.

Testing and Commissioning

Every Siemens PLC program should be thoroughly tested before entering production.

Our services may include:
• Software simulation.
• Functional testing.
• Input and output verification.
• Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT).
• Site Acceptance Testing (SAT).
• PLC commissioning.
• Operator training.
• Final documentation.

Comprehensive testing helps ensure the control system performs safely and reliably from day one.

Why Choose Stratos?

Stratos delivers Siemens PLC programming solutions that combine practical engineering expertise with proven industrial automation experience. From software development and machine control to upgrades, commissioning and long-term support, we help manufacturers implement reliable automation systems that improve productivity and reduce operational risk.

Whether you're building a new machine or modernising an existing production line, our engineers develop Siemens PLC software that is robust, scalable and designed for long-term success.

Siemens PLC Programming That Keeps Production Moving

Whether you need a new Siemens PLC program, software modifications or a complete automation upgrade, Stratos delivers reliable Siemens PLC programming solutions tailored to your production requirements. Contact our engineering team to discuss your Siemens automation project.

Frequently Asked Questions