SIMATIC WinAC RTX is Siemens’ software-based programmable logic controller (soft PLC) that runs on Windows using the RTX real-time extension to provide deterministic control. It allows control logic (SIMATIC S7-like) to run on standard x86 hardware for machine and process automation where a compact or PC-based PLC is preferred.
| Issue | Probable Cause | Solution | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | "Real-Time Subsystem Failed" on boot | Driver conflict or outdated BIOS. | Update BIOS; check for conflicting third-party kernel drivers (e.g., old VPN clients). | | Demo Mode active | License missing or not found. | Check Automation License Manager; ensure license is not expired. | | Cannot ping the PLC | Network adapter configuration mismatch. | Verify that the network adapter in the Station Configurator matches the physical adapter used. | | BSOD (Blue Screen) | Incompatible hardware (typically non-Intel NIC). | Use a PC with an Intel PRO/1000 network adapter; WinAC RTX has strict hardware requirements. |
In the rapidly evolving world of industrial automation, the demand for flexibility, computing power, and seamless IT/OT integration is higher than ever. Siemens addresses this need with SIMATIC WinAC RTX – a software-based PLC system that transforms a standard industrial PC into a powerful, real-time controller.
Whether you are a controls engineer upgrading an existing line, an OEM building a custom machine, or a system integrator looking to reduce hardware costs, obtaining the newest SIMATIC WinAC RTX download is your first step toward a modern, PC-based automation architecture. simatic winac rtx download new
This article provides everything you need to know: what WinAC RTX is, the benefits of the latest version, step-by-step download instructions via Siemens Industry Online Support (SIOS), licensing, installation prerequisites, and troubleshooting tips.
| Source | Access Requirement | |--------|--------------------| | Siemens Industry Online Support (SIOS) | Free registration | | Siemens Support Portal | Maintenance contract / logged-in user | | SIA (Software Installation Agent) | Optional – automates version checks | | Legacy DVDs / Archive | For older versions (e.g., V4.5) |
🔗 Direct search term on support.industry.siemens.com:
“WinAC RTX download” → Filter by Version (newest = typically V4.7 / V4.8) 🔗 Direct search term on support
⚠️ IMPORTANT SECURITY NOTICE: Siemens industrial software should only be downloaded from the official Siemens Support Portal or the Siemens Industry Online Support (SIOS) portal. Third-party downloads pose a significant risk of malware injection, which can compromise industrial control systems (ICS).
| Error Message | Likely Cause | Solution | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | "Setup cannot install RTX driver – Windows Defender" | Antivirus blocking kernel driver. | Temporarily disable Real-time Protection and Core Isolation (Memory Integrity). | | "No compatible hardware found" | CPU lacks HPET (High Precision Event Timer) or running in a VM. | Enable HPET in BIOS. WinAC RTX does not run on VMware/ VirtualBox reliably. Use Siemens SIMIT for virtual testing. | | "PROFINET cycle time exceeded" (500 ms) | Wrong network card or Hyper-V enabled. | Go to BIOS → Disable VT-d/AMD-VI. Use an Intel I210/I350 NIC. | | "Download failed: Corrupt CAB file" | The original download was interrupted. | Delete the file, clear browser cache, re-download from SIOS using a download manager. | | "WinAC RTX not listed in TIA Portal" | Missing Hardware Support Package (HSP). | Download HSP 0290 for WinAC RTX from TIA Portal's support package management. |
The download gives you the software bits. To run it beyond a 21-day trial, you need a license. clear browser cache
Siemens officially discontinued SIMATIC WinAC RTX (the software PLC that ran on standard Windows PCs) several years ago. The direct successor and the actual new software you are looking for is:
SIMATIC S7-1500 Software Controller (formerly known as CPU 1505S / 1507S / 1508S).
If you need a pure software PLC for a PC with real-time capabilities, do not search for WinAC RTX. Instead, search for the S7-1500 Software Controller in Siemens’ Industry Mall or your local distributor’s portal.
