The Siemens 6ES7488-3AA00-0AB0 is a SIMATIC S7-400 Memory Card (Flash EPROM type), designed specifically as a storage medium for S7-400 series PLCs. It is used to store user programs, configuration data, and firmware, ensuring data persistence even when the PLC power is off.
- Product Series: SIMATIC S7-400
- Product Type: Flash EPROM Memory Card (for S7-400 CPUs)
- Storage Capacity: 8 MB (key specification for program/data storage)
- Product Status: Discontinued (no longer in production; Siemens recommends migrating to S7-1500-compatible memory cards for new projects)
- Key Function: Provides non-volatile storage for S7-400 CPU programs, system configurations, and process data. Acts as a backup medium and enables fast program loading during PLC startup.
- Dimensions (W×H×D): ~85 mm × 54 mm × 7 mm (standard compact flash card form factor adapted for S7-400 CPU slots)
- Weight: Approximately 10 g (lightweight, easy to install/remove)
- Operating Temperature: -25°C to +60°C (suitable for control cabinet environments)
- Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
- Protection Rating: IP40 (protects against dust ingress; requires CPU slot cover for additional protection when installed)
- Installation: Plug-and-play design – inserted into the dedicated memory card slot on the front of S7-400 CPUs. Secured by a spring-loaded latch to prevent accidental disconnection.
The 6ES7488-3AA00-0AB0 memory card is a critical storage component for S7-400 PLC systems, with core roles including:
- Program Storage:
- Stores the entire user program (OBs, FCs, FBs), system data (SDBs), and data blocks (DBs) for the S7-400 CPU.
- Enables the CPU to load the program automatically during power-on, eliminating the need for manual re-download from a programming device.
- Data Backup & Recovery:
- Serves as a backup medium for program and configuration data. If the CPU’s internal memory fails, the card can restore the system to a functional state.
- Facilitates program transfer between S7-400 CPUs (e.g., for maintenance or system duplication).
- Firmware Update:
- Can be used to load updated firmware (CPU operating system) into compatible S7-400 CPUs, enabling performance improvements or bug fixes.
Typical Applications:
- Medium to large-scale S7-400 automation systems (e.g., manufacturing lines, process control plants) requiring reliable program backup.
- S7-400H redundant systems, where the card provides program consistency between primary and standby CPUs.
- Industrial environments where PLC power may be interrupted, as the card ensures no data loss.
As the S7-400 series and its accessories are discontinued, Siemens recommends migrating to the SIMATIC S7-1500 series. For memory storage needs in S7-1500 systems, the following replacements are recommended:
Key migration notes:
- S7-1500 uses SD cards (instead of Flash EPROM cards) for storage, requiring a format compatible with TIA Portal.
- Programs from S7-400 (created in STEP 7 V5.x) need to be converted to TIA Portal format before being downloaded to S7-1500 CPUs and their SD cards.
