The next technological leap followed in 1996 with 'Simatic S7' - the step from PLC to Totally Integrated Automation, where the focus is no longer on the properties of individual devices, but on integrated solutions. At the same time, Siemens also laid the foundation for the integration of process control technology into the world of Simatic with the 'Simatic PCS 7' process control system, which is based on the same Simatic technology.