Which software is used to program the Modicon M251?
The software to program the Modicon M251 is EcoStruxure Machine Expert (previously SoMachine).
In order to install this software you need to download the "Schneider Electric Software Installer" from our website. Here is the link:
https://download.schneider-electric.com/files?p_Archive_Name=ESEMACS10_INSTALLER.zip&p_enDocType=Software - Release&p_Doc_Ref=ESEMACS10_INSTALLER
Once you have the Software Installer, you should be able to install EcoStruxure Machine Expert. There is initially a 42 day trial period, after which will need to purchase a license in order to use the majority of the functionality available. However, there is a free version of the software you can use for limited functionality. Please check pages 14 and 16 on the link below for more information on the free version limitations: https://download.schneider-electric.com/files?p_Doc_Ref=DIA3ED2180701EN
Regardless of whether you have the free or licensed versions, you will need to have an account in our License Portal in order to register the software:
https://www.se.com/ww/sites/corporate/en/support/software-licensing/user-login
The previous version of the M251 software was SoMachine and the last version of this software was SoMachine V4.3 SP2.
This software is still available using the reference SOMNACS43. See below:
https://www.se.com/ww/en/product/SOMNACS43/somachine-software-v4-3-usb-drive-format/
The firmware versions for the M251 that correlate with the Software are as follows:
- for a PLC programmed in SoMachine the firmware version starts with v4.0.x.x. The firmware version to use with the last software version (SoMachine v4.3) is v4.0.6.41 due to hardware changes.
- for a PLC programmed in EcoStruxure Machine Expert v1.2.x, the firmware version starts with v5.0.x.x.
- for a PLC programmed in EcoStruxure Machine Expert v2.x.x, the firmware version starts with v5.3.x.x.
If you install EcoStruxure Machine Expert , please make sure you also the installation of the "Controller Assistant" so you can check this information.
In order to program the Modicon M251 you can use a miniUSB cable (TCSXCNAMUM3P or BMXXCAUSBH018) , a SD Card or an ethernet cable.
Released for: Schneider Electric UK
