Getting Started with TIA Portal: What Is TIA Portal?
Published on Jun10, 2025 | Category: tiaTIA Portal (Totally Integrated Automation Portal) is a software platform developed by Siemens for programming and configuring of PLC, HMI, drives, and other devices. TIA Portal is a complete package for configuring and programming these devices. TIA Portal comes with tools like project manager for organizing and managing automation projects, program editor for creating logic and control programs for PLCs, HMI editor for designing and configuring user interfaces for operator interaction and supports communication protocols, like Profinet, Profibus, and Ethernet/IP, and can be used with a variety of Siemens automation hardware.
What Are the Basic Features of TIA Portal?
- All-in-one software for PLC, HMI, and drive configuration.
- Graphical and visualization support for intuitive programming.
- Supports a wide range of industrial communication protocols.
- Integrated drive control, management, and configuration.
- OPC server support and third-party PLC/HMI integration.
- Advanced error detection and diagnostic tools.
- Fully compliant with IEC 61131-3 programming standards.
- Online monitoring and diagnostics functionality.
Difference Between STEP 7 and TIA Portal
- Modern Unified Platform: TIA Portal is a modern and comprehensive engineering environment that includes all features of STEP 7, plus additional tools for HMI, drives, and project management.
- User Interface: TIA Portal offers a modern, user-friendly interface that is easier to navigate compared to the traditional interface of STEP 7.
- Protocol Support: TIA Portal supports a broader range of communication protocols, whereas STEP 7 is mainly focused on Simatic S7.
- Project Scalability: TIA Portal is optimized for all Siemens automation devices and is ideal for large, complex automation projects. STEP 7 is primarily used for programming PLCs.
Create a Basic Project in TIA Portal
To create a project in TIA Portal, first open the software as an administrator.
After TIA Portal successfully launches, you will be presented with two options:
- Open existing project – if you have a previously saved project.
- Create new project – to start a new automation project from scratch.
When creating a new project, TIA Portal will prompt you to enter some details such as: project name, storage path, author name, and an optional comment. Always ensure you note the storage path, as the project will be saved in the specified location with the name you provide. The default save path can be customized. Once all information is entered, click Create.
Configure Device & Network in TIA Portal
After creating a project, the next step is to configure your device and network. TIA Portal provides several options:
- Configure a device
- Write PLC program
- Configure technology objects
- Configure an HMI screen
- Open the project view
Select Configure a device to start configuring a new device.
Add Device to Your TIA Project
After creating a new project, the next step is to add a device. You have two options:
- Show All Devices: Displays all devices currently connected to TIA Portal.
- Add New Device: Allows you to manually add a new device from the available catalog.
Select Add New Device, choose your hardware from the list, and add it to the project.
How to Create a Program in TIA Portal
In the project tree (Device view), navigate to:
PLC > Program Blocks > Main [OB1]
Double-click on Main [OB1] to open the program editor. You can now start writing your logic here.
Simple Program Example in TIA Project
Here's a simple example in a TIA project. In this logic, an input triggers a timer. When the timer reaches its preset time, the done bit is set to TRUE, indicating the completion of the timer operation.
Download Your TIA Portal Program
After successfully writing your program, the next step is to download it to the PLC (or test it in simulation mode). Click on the Download button. A dialog window will open.
In the download dialog, select the correct PG/PC Interface and the appropriate PC port for communication. Then, add the device to your project and initiate the download process. Once the project is successfully downloaded to the PLC, you can monitor and test your program.