What is your opinion on upgrading S7 hardware prematurely?

Hi,

Currently I am involved in an “Obsolescence Project”, meaning upgrading  control system hardware that is obsolete and spares are no longer available.   The vendor for a particular scope of the project dealing with Siemens based control panels is recommending that almost all the component be replaced, due to their lifecycle either being obsolete or active/mature.

Many of the components are list as obsolete, however, their successor product is basically and identically replacement.   For example Power Supplies,  Communication Cards, and in one particular case a Rack.

Note, the equipment is installed in an excellent environment and in very good condition.

What is your opinion about upgrading parts for no other reason than the part number is no no longer valid?

Thanks

Below is  list of few items

Hi KTexh,

the TIA Selection Tool offers a migration wizard for migrating the configurations of the S7-300 and S7‑400 to S7‑1500, the ET 200S to ET 200SP and the ET 200M to ET 200MP. Maybe this will help you.

Kind regards
Stefan

KTexh

What is your opinion about upgrading parts for no other reason than the part number is no no longer valid?

I think you should answer few question first and evaluate possible scenarios.

• What is expected life time of this control system?
• For how long Siemens offers repair services and what is the expected lead time? 
• Do you have stocks of spare covering all components? Or can you still built such a stock? Or is it possible to stop the control system till repair will be made?

Additionally you should calculate expected expenses for each possible scenario. Then compare them with the offer for upgrade and all additional expenses connected with this step. And you will have your answer. I think this will be in line with my opinion.