Book excerpt: The SIMATIC S7-1500 programmable logic controller (PLC) sets standards in productivity and efficiency. By its system performance and with PROFINET as the standard interface, it ensures short system response times and a maximum of flexibility and networkability for demanding automation tasks in the entire production industry and in applications for medium-sized to high-end machines. The engineering software STEP 7 Professional operates inside TIA Portal, a user interface that is designed for intuitive operation. Functionality includes all aspects of automation: from the configuration of the controllers via programming in the IEC languages LAD, FBD, STL, and SCL up to the program test. In the book, the hardware components of the automation system S7-1500 are presented including the description of their configuration and parameterization. A comprehensive introduction into STEP 7 Professional V14 illustrates the basics of programming and troubleshooting. Beginners learn the basics of automation with Simatic S7-1500, users switching from other controllers will receive the relevant knowledge.