Siemens adds XLad ladder logic and S7-1200 G2 support to Simatic AX LCE
- Introduces XLad, the first graphical ladder programming language in Simatic AX Logic Control Engineering.
- XLad integrates Git and CI/CD workflows, enabling version control, automated testing and continuous integration for ladder logic.
- Supports bidirectional programming with human-readable, AI-ready textual representation and reuse of Structured Text libraries.
- Adds compatibility with Simatic S7‑1200 G2 controllers, extending Simatic AX LCE from S7‑1500 to basic automation projects; showcased at Automate Chicago (June 22–25).
What Siemens changed
Simatic AX Logic Control Engineering (LCE) now includes XLad, a ladder programming option and the first graphical language in the environment, and adds support for Simatic S7‑1200 G2 controllers. Previously the tool was a Structured Text (ST)–only environment focused on S7‑1500 controllers.
OT accessibility
XLad aims to make Software‑Defined Automation more accessible to operational technology users such as service and maintenance technicians by offering a graphical logic representation that reduces onboarding time, simplifies troubleshooting and improves cross‑team collaboration.
Modern software workflows
XLad brings software development practices into ladder logic with integrated Git and CI/CD support, enabling version control, automated testing and continuous integration/continuous deployment workflows to improve change transparency and software quality.
Programming flexibility and AI readiness
The tool supports bidirectional programming between graphical and text editors, offers a human‑readable, AI‑ready textual representation and allows reuse of libraries authored in Structured Text.
Applications and rollout
Support for S7‑1200 G2 opens basic automation projects to Simatic AX LCE. Siemens is presenting these updates at Automate in Chicago from June 22 to 25.
Source: Siemens
