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Planning a Siemens control system upgrade starts here.

From I/O migration and cabinet layout to software versioning and virtual testing, smart modernization depends on smart preparation. This page brings together practical insights to help you plan with confidence—whether you’re just getting started or already working through your upgrade path.

Curated by Pigler Automation’s team of trusted Siemens experts, the content here reflects decades of real-world experience supporting plants across North America. You’ll find a growing mix of blog posts, technical how-to’s, and in-depth landing pages covering topics like PCS 7 upgrades, ET 200M replacement, and phased modernization strategies.

This resource is continuously updated as technologies evolve and our team uncovers new planning best practices.

📌 Looking for details on ET 200M migration? Start with the ET 200M Upgrade Hub »

Table of Contents

Section 1: Getting Started with Modernization

Pigler Insights

The Hidden Costs of Spare Parts Management Failures

Spare parts management failures cost far more than the price of a replacement component. Downtime, inflated costs, and customer impact add up fast. This post breaks down how to build a structured spare parts strategy — and avoid the hidden risks that catch too many plants off guard.

Read More »

Automation Upgrade Planning Made Easy

Upgrading your automation system doesn’t have to mean shutdowns, stress, or overspending. This post breaks down a smarter approach to automation upgrade planning—one that prioritizes risk, respects your reality, and keeps your operation moving.

Read More »

Section 2: I/O Migration & ET 200M Replacement

Secion 4: Simulation & Testing

Test smarter. Launch with confidence.

Simulation tools like Siemens SIMIT can play a critical role in validating control logic, reducing deployment risk, and preparing operators before changes go live.

We’re currently building resources to help you incorporate simulation and virtual commissioning into your modernization strategy.

🔧 Check back soon for expert guidance, use cases, and planning tools.

Section 5: Operational Readiness & Cybersecurity

Build for long-term supportability, not short-term survival.

Modernization isn’t complete without a plan for system documentation, secure architecture, and future audit readiness. From cybersecurity best practices to strategies that keep your control system supportable, we’re developing resources to help you stay ready for what’s next.

🛡 New content coming soon: security insights, readiness checklists, and long-term support strategies.

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