Technical data

Programming with STEP 7
Manual, 05/2010, A5E02789666-01 113
5 Startup and Operation
5.1 Starting STEP 7
When you start Windows, you will find an icon for the SIMATIC Manager, the starting point for
the STEP 7 software on the Windows interface.
The quickest method to start STEP 7 is to position the cursor on the icon and double-click. The
window containing the SIMATIC Manager is then opened. From here you can access all the
functions you have installed for the standard package and any optional packages.
Alternatively you can also start the SIMATIC Manager via the "Start" button in the taskbar of the
operating system. You will find the entry under "Simatic".
Note
You will find more information about standard Windows operation and options in your Windows user's
guide or in the online help of your Windows operating system.
SIMATIC Manager
The SIMATIC Manager is the basic application for configuring and programming. You can perform
the following functions in the SIMATIC Manager:
• Set up projects
• Configure and assign parameters to hardware
• Configure hardware networks
• Program blocks
• Debug and commission your programs
Access to the various functions is designed to be object oriented, and intuitive and easy to learn.
You can work with the SIMATIC Manager in one of two ways:
• Offline, without a programmable controller connected
• Online, with a programmable controller connected
Note the relevant safety notices in each case.
How to Proceed from Here
You create automation tasks in the form of "Projects." You will make it easier for yourself if you
read up on the following basic topics before you start work:
• User interface
• Some basic operating steps
• Online help