SIEMENS 6ES5374-1KH21
- EICHLER-art.no.: K0117481
- EAN: 4025515115588
Product description
SIMATIC S5, MEMORY CARDS SHORT DESIGN 5V ONLY FLASH-EPROM, 256 KB
Services for SIEMENS 6ES5374-1KH21
SIEMENS |
6ES5374-1KH21 –
additional product information
| Delivery information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Export identifier | AL: ECCN: | ||
| Net weight | 0.038 | ||
| Quantity | 1 Stück | ||
| Packaging quantity | 1 | ||
| Additional product information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Product status | EOP: 2006-10-01 | ||
| EAN | 4025515115588 | ||
| UPC | / | ||
| Static lot number | 85389091 | ||
| List indicator | / | ||
| Product group | 4235 | ||
| Country of origin | DE | ||
| Compliance with the substance restrictions according to RoHS directive | Since: / | ||
| Product classifications | Version | Classification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| eClass | 4 | / | |
| eClass | 5.1 | / | |
| eClass | 6.0 | / | |
| ETIM | 3 | / | |
| ETIM | 4 | / | |
| ETIM | 5 | / | |
What is the 6ES5374-1KH21 and where is it used?
The 6ES5374-1KH21 is a SIMATIC S5 Memory Card in a short-format design featuring 5 V-only Flash EPROM technology and 256 KB of memory capacity. The card is used in older Siemens automation environments where programs or configuration data must be stored in a non-volatile medium. In Siemens documentation, it appears, among other applications, in connection with the IM 308-C, where it is listed as a compatible memory card for this PROFIBUS DP interface module. Siemens also references the 6ES5374-1KH21 in connection with CPU 945 memory cards, making it particularly relevant for spare-parts identification in existing S5 installations. For maintenance and purchasing departments, the exact order number is therefore important because form factor, voltage concept and application environment are not freely interchangeable within the S5 memory card range.
Overview of the key technical specifications and what they mean
The key selection criteria are the short form factor, 5 V-only design, Flash EPROM technology and 256 KB memory capacity. The short form factor refers to the physical design and is important for mechanical installation. The 5 V-only specification means that the card belongs to the later 5-volt generation; this is particularly important in IM 308-C applications because Siemens explicitly states that only 5 V memory cards can be programmed in this environment. Flash EPROM provides non-volatile storage, ensuring that data is retained even when power is removed. The 256 KB capacity defines the available storage space for program or configuration data. In IM 308-C applications, parameters such as addressing and communication behaviour also depend on the correct preparation and installation of the memory card.
Product status, life-cycle status and obsolescence
For the 6ES5374-1KH21, EICHLER lists an EOP (End of Production) date of 2006-10-01. In the Siemens SiePortal, the product is also classified as discontinued without a designated successor. For operators of older S5 systems, this is a clear indication that supply security can no longer rely on standard manufacturer availability but instead depends on spare-parts management, tested refurbished units, exchange solutions and service processes. Historically, the 6ES5374-1KH21 already belongs to a later 5 V memory-card generation; Siemens identifies it as the successor to the 6ES5374-1FH21 and as part of the newer Flash memory generation. However, no direct manufacturer-designated successor for the 6ES5374-1KH21 itself is currently apparent.
Available EICHLER services and when they are relevant in practice
For the 6ES5374-1KH21, EICHLER offers repair, exchange, refurbished and new procurement options. For repairs, EICHLER specifies technical cleaning, preventive maintenance, comprehensive functional testing and a minimum 24-month warranty. This is particularly relevant for maintenance teams when an existing S5 installation must be returned to operation quickly without immediately replacing the entire automation platform. For purchasing departments, exchange or refurbished solutions can be attractive when rapid availability is more important than locating rare stock items. For decision-makers, the combination of service and procurement options helps reduce downtime costs and maintain the functionality of obsolete systems even when no current manufacturer successor is available. EICHLER provides these services exclusively for business customers.
| Fault Description | Possible Solution Approach |
|---|---|
| How do I resolve an IF LED on the IM 308-C when loading with a 6ES5374-1KH21? | If the IF LED lights up while importing the operating system from the memory card, Siemens describes this as an error during the loading process. Repeat the entire import procedure, reinsert the card carefully and verify that the correct memory card is being used. If the fault remains, power down the IM 308-C completely and repeat the process from the beginning. |
| Why can the 6ES5374-1KH21 not be programmed in an IM 308-C as expected? | Siemens points out that newer versions of the IM 308-C can no longer program 12 V memory cards and are designed exclusively for 5 V cards. Therefore, first verify the exact IM 308-C version, the voltage type of the memory card and the corresponding hardware release level. In mixed spare-parts inventories, confusion between 12 V and 5 V cards is a common cause of programming and commissioning problems. |
| Why do I receive the “MCRDCTRL” error when reading a 6ES5374-1KH21 in COM PROFIBUS? | In a major PLC user forum, this error was traced back to a memory-card driver that was either not activated or not installed. Check the memory-card configuration in COM PROFIBUS, activate or reinstall the appropriate driver and verify the software version as well. In the documented case, the issue was resolved after installing COM PROFIBUS 5.1 Service Pack 2. |
| How do I correctly back up the current program to a 6ES5374-1KH21 when BASP was red after a power failure and an old program version reappears? | This behaviour often indicates that the Flash memory card was not updated with the latest project version. In the STEP 5 documentation, program number 500 is reserved for SIMATIC Memory Cards; the SPS forum also refers to explicitly writing this type of card in the PG/STEP 5 environment using program number 500. Therefore, reload the complete current project, deliberately write the card using the programming device and then verify the result by reading the card back to ensure that the latest version has actually been stored. |
| Why does the IM 308-C not enter the expected DP operating mode even when the memory card is installed? | Siemens describes several conditions in which the IM 308-C does not start productive DP operation despite an installed memory card. Examples include an empty memory card, a master configuration that has not yet been exported from COM PROFIBUS, or parameters that have not yet been activated. Therefore, first check the contents of the memory card, export the master system again and activate the parameters before assuming that a hardware fault exists. |
Is the 6ES5374-1KH21 still available or has it been discontinued?
The 6ES5374-1KH21 has been discontinued. The EICHLER product page lists an EOP date of 01 October 2006, and the Siemens SiePortal classifies the card as “cancelled without replacement.” In practical terms, procurement today focuses on tested inventory, exchange units, refurbished parts and service-based supply solutions rather than regular manufacturer deliveries of new products.
Can I use the 6ES5374-1KH21 as a replacement for the 6ES5374-1FH21?
Siemens identifies the 6ES5374-1KH21 as the successor to the 6ES5374-1FH21, which generally indicates a high degree of spare-part compatibility. Nevertheless, the specific application environment remains important because, in older S5 systems, not only the order number but also the voltage concept, form factor and programming method must match correctly. Before replacement, the hardware revision and the actual application should therefore always be verified.
What does “5V-only” mean for this SIMATIC S5 Memory Card?
“5V-only” means that the card is designed for the 5-volt memory-card generation. This is not merely a technical detail but a key selection criterion. Siemens explicitly states that only 5 V memory cards can be programmed in the IM 308-C environment. When mixing older and newer spare-part stocks, this specification deserves particular attention because an incorrect voltage assignment can easily lead to programming and diagnostic issues.
Is the 6ES5374-1KH21 suitable for use with the IM 308-C?
Yes. Siemens lists the 6ES5374-1KH21 as a compatible memory card for the IM 308-C and specifies it in the documentation for IM 308-C Release 2 or higher. Siemens also notes that the card must be ordered separately for this application. For operators of ET 200 and PROFIBUS systems, this is important because the card serves not only as a storage medium but also as a key component for the parameterised operation of the IM 308-C.
Is the 6ES5374-1KH21 also relevant in the CPU 945 environment?
Yes. Siemens refers to the 6ES5374-1KH21 in its documentation relating to CPU 945 memory cards and describes its use within the corresponding CPU 945 environment. For operators of older S5-115U systems, this is an important reference when identifying and sourcing the correct memory card for a specific CPU platform.
When are repair, exchange, refurbished or new units the most suitable procurement option?
The answer depends on the objective of the installation. Repair is appropriate when the existing system structure should be preserved and returning the original component to service is the priority. Exchange is usually the preferred option when minimising downtime is the primary concern. Refurbished units are particularly attractive when both obsolescence and budget constraints must be considered. New units remain relevant when documented warehouse stock or unused legacy inventory is required. For this product, EICHLER offers all four options and supplements its repair service with functional testing, preventive maintenance and a minimum 24-month warranty.
