Description

The Siemens 6AV3617-1JC20-0AX1, also known as the SIMATIC OP17/DP, is a membrane-keypad operator panel designed for text-based process visualization and machine control within the SIMATIC HMI product family . This robust unit was widely deployed in the 1990s and 2000s as a primary interface for SIMATIC S7-300 and S7-400 PLC systems .

This dedicated operator panel combines a 4-line by 20-character or 8-line by 40-character LCD display with a durable tactile membrane keypad . The Siemens 6AV3617-1JC20-0AX1 connects to automation networks via its PROFIBUS-DP interface, enabling real-time data exchange and control over distributed I/O and PLC systems .

 

Application Scenarios

In an aging bottling plant, operators used the Siemens 6AV3617-1JC20-0AX1 to monitor fill levels and start/stop conveyors. After many years of service, the backlight on the original unit dimmed, making operations difficult and increasing the risk of production errors. Sourcing a replacement was critical to avoid costly downtime while the rest of the control system remained unchanged.

The project team located a functionally tested Siemens 6AV3617-1JC20-0AX1 and re-loaded the existing ProTool configuration . The drop-in replacement restored full visibility and control, allowing maintenance staff to manage line parameters directly from the machine floor. The success of this replacement highlights the important role the Siemens 6AV3617-1JC20-0AX1 still plays in supporting legacy automation infrastructure, providing a cost-effective bridge to keep long-serving assets operational .

 

Parameters

Main Parameters	Value/Description
Product Model	6AV3617-1JC20-0AX1
Manufacturer	Siemens AG
Product Category	Operator Panel / Text-Based HMI
Series	SIMATIC OP17-DP
Display Type	LCD, Monochrome (Blue STN/Black & White)
Display Resolution	4 lines x 20 characters / 8 lines x 40 characters
Input Method	Membrane Keypad with 16 User-Definable Function Keys and Alphanumeric Keys
Supply Voltage	24 V DC (19.2V – 28.8V range)
Power Consumption	Approx. 8W – 10W
Communication Interfaces	PROFIBUS-DP (up to 1.5 Mbaud), RS232 (Serial Download/Programming)
Front Protection Class	IP65 (Dust-tight and protected against water jets)
Rear Protection Class	IP20
Operating Temperature	0°C to +50°C
Dimensions (WxHxD)	Approx. 240 mm x 204 mm x 50 mm
Weight	Approx. 0.9 kg
Configuration Software	ProTool / Lite, ProTool V6.0, WinCC flexible 2008 (Compatibility limited, TIA Portal not supported)
Lifecycle Status	Product Discontinued (EOL) – Active Support Concluded (PM500)