Nidec – The Brand Behind the Motion

How a Japanese company became a global driving force

Whenever something spins, Nidec is often behind it. Today, the brand is a global leader in electric motors, drive systems, and precision components—built on clarity, consistency, and innovation. Founded in 1973 in Kyoto, Japan, Nidec has grown from a small startup into a multinational technology group active in nearly every sector: from home appliances and industrial automation to electric mobility.

Philosophy: “All for dreams”

Nidec’s slogan is more than a marketing line—it’s a guiding principle. Founder Shigenobu Nagamori, still Chairman and CEO, has long pursued a vision rooted in long-term thinking, uncompromising quality, and global expansion. His goal: Nidec should be number one in every field where things move.

• Fast decision-making
• High individual responsibility
• Strong focus on R&D
• Strategic acquisitions to expand the portfolio

Global Presence and Structure

Nidec operates in over 40 countries with more than 300 subsidiaries. Key brands under the Nidec umbrella include:

• Nidec Motor Corporation (USA): Industrial and HVAC motors
• Nidec Leroy-Somer (France): Generators and drive technology
• Nidec Control Techniques (UK): Drives and servo systems
• Nidec Shimpo (Japan): Precision gearboxes and positioning systems
• Nidec ASI (Italy): Industrial automation and energy projects

Technological Expertise

Nidec invests billions of yen annually in R&D. Focus areas include:

• High-efficiency motors (IE4/IE5)
• Sensorless control and digital drive technology
• Drives for electric vehicles and autonomous systems
• Smart factory solutions with IIoT integration
• Sustainable manufacturing and recyclability

Brand Identity and Design

Nidec follows a unified brand architecture, recognized with the Transform Award Europe in 2021. All subsidiaries now share a modern green logo and consistent visual language—strengthening recognition and trust among OEMs, integrators, and end users.

Conclusion

Nidec is more than a motor manufacturer—it’s a global innovation leader redefining motion. With clear vision, technical excellence, and worldwide reach, the brand is well positioned for the next industrial era.

Nidec Drives – A History of Many Names

How multiple brands became a global drive powerhouse

The story of Nidec Drives isn’t a straight line—it’s a mosaic of brands, technologies, and strategic acquisitions. What now operates under the Nidec Drives name is the result of decades of development, consolidation, and global expansion. From U.S. MOTORS® to Control Techniques and Leroy-Somer, Nidec has unified strong legacy brands into a global drive technology platform.

Origins: U.S. MOTORS® and Emerson Drives

It all began in 1908 with the founding of U.S. MOTORS® in the United States. The brand quickly became a leader in industrial and HVAC motors and later joined Emerson Electric. Under Emerson, additional brands emerged:

• Emerson Industrial Automation
• Control Techniques (UK) – specialist in variable speed drives
• Leroy-Somer (France) – leader in generators and synchronous machines

The Nidec Acquisition

In 2017, Nidec acquired Emerson’s entire drive division—including all subsidiaries, patents, and production sites. Overnight, Nidec became one of the largest providers of industrial drive solutions worldwide.

Brand Diversity and Consolidation

The challenge was to unify strong legacy brands into a consistent global identity. Nidec achieved this through a comprehensive rebranding:

• Unified logo and color scheme
• Shared product platforms (e.g. Commander C, Digitax HD)
• Standardized software, interfaces, and support
• Launch of the “One Nidec – One Drive Architecture” claim

Technology Evolution

Today, Nidec Drives stands for innovation in areas such as:

• Variable speed drives from 0.25 kW to 2 MW
• Servo systems with EtherCAT and CANopen
• Soft starters and DC drives
• Industrial PCs and motion controllers
• Cloud connectivity via DriveWizard and Edge gateways

The Emotional Side of Technology

Many customers have long-standing relationships with brands like Leroy-Somer and Control Techniques. Nidec has preserved that emotional connection while building a modern global identity. These products carry not just technical value—but legacy.

Conclusion

Nidec Drives is the result of a rich, dynamic history—shaped by innovation, brand strength, and strategic foresight. From many names emerged a global force for quality, efficiency, and future-ready drive technology.

Nidec Drives Today – Stable, Ambitious, Global

How a Japanese group is redefining industrial motion technology

As of 2025, Nidec Drives stands on solid ground as a global provider of drive solutions—and is poised for ambitious growth. With over 117,000 employees worldwide, a market capitalization of around €20 billion, and a clear focus on e-mobility, industrial automation, and sustainability, Nidec is more than a motor manufacturer: it’s a strategic technology partner for tomorrow’s connected production.

Market Position and Segment Strength

Nidec ranks among the top three global players in several key sectors:

• Home appliance motors: global leader with over 40% market share
• HVAC and industrial drives: strong presence in North America and Europe
• Variable speed drives and servo systems: broad portfolio via Control Techniques and Leroy-Somer
• Automotive: E-Axle systems for EVs, partnerships with OEMs in Japan, China, and Europe
• Energy and infrastructure: solutions for wind, hydrogen, and smart grids

Strategic Goals by 2030

Nidec’s growth strategy is built on three pillars:

• Doubling revenue in Motors & Actuators to €1 billion
• Expanding presence in Europe and North America via new plants and joint ventures
• Strengthening digital capabilities through Industrial Edge, cloud connectivity, and AI-based control

In e-mobility, Nidec aims to become a top-three supplier of electric drive systems by 2030—focusing on E-Axle, inverters, and battery management.

Technology Focus

Nidec Drives is pushing innovation in areas such as:

• IE5 motors with ultra-high efficiency
• Sensorless control and predictive maintenance
• DriveWizard and Edge gateways for IIoT integration
• Cybersecurity and digital twins for drive systems
• Cloud-based diagnostics and remote commissioning

Products are increasingly modular, software-defined, and network-ready—ideal for smart factory concepts and hybrid IT/OT architectures.

Sustainability and ESG

Nidec is committed to ambitious ESG goals:

• Carbon neutrality by 2040
• 100% recyclability for new products by 2030
• Transparent supply chains and ethical sourcing
• Investments in social initiatives and education partnerships

These efforts enhance brand value and appeal to customers, investors, and talent alike.

Customer Perspective and Service Quality

Nidec Drives delivers:

• Global support network across 40+ countries
• Local manufacturing and engineering expertise
• Fast delivery through modular platforms
• Training centers and digital learning tools for partners

Conclusion

Nidec Drives is a stable, forward-looking provider of motion technology. With clear strategy, technical innovation, and sustainable leadership, the company is well positioned to shape the industrial world of tomorrow.

Siemens S5 – The Pioneer That Changed Industrial Automation

A look back at the PLC that started it all

When Siemens introduced the SIMATIC S5 in 1979, it wasn’t just a new product—it marked a turning point in industrial control. The S5 was Siemens’ first programmable logic controller (PLC) to fully embrace software-based logic, replacing hardwired relay systems and ushering in a new era of digital automation.

A Legend Is Born

Launched at a time when industrial control was still dominated by mechanical components, the S5 offered a modular, robust, and scalable architecture. From the compact S5-90U to the powerful S5-155U, the series covered a wide range of applications—from packaging lines to chemical plants.

Technical Milestones

• First Siemens PLC to support AWL, FUP, and KOP programming
• Modular expansion with I/O and communication modules
• Redundant CPU systems for high-availability environments

Real-World Impact

The S5 was deployed globally across industries. Its longevity is legendary: many systems still run on S5 hardware today, despite Siemens officially ending support in 2020. Its durability, simplicity, and widespread adoption made it a benchmark for future generations.

Emotional Legacy

For many engineers, the S5 wasn’t just a tool—it was a rite of passage. Alan Norbury, CTO of Siemens UK, recalls: “In the late ’70s, engineers were used to relay panels. The S5 was a tenth the size and introduced a completely new mindset—software instead of wiring. It was a cultural shift.”

Relevance Today

Though discontinued, the S5 remains a symbol of digital transformation. Siemens offers migration paths to the S7-1200 and S7-1500, including conversion tools and hardware adapters. The S5’s legacy lives on in every modern PLC.

Conclusion

The SIMATIC S5 wasn’t just a product—it was a milestone in industrial history. Its story is one of innovation, resilience, and lasting impact.

Siemens S7-200 – Compact, Reliable, Underrated

How a small controller quietly shaped industrial automation

In the world of automation, some systems make a big impact without making noise. The Siemens S7-200 is one of them. Introduced in the 1990s as the successor to the S5-95U, it was Siemens’ first true compact PLC—and quickly became the go-to solution for small machines and decentralized applications.

Designed for Simplicity and Efficiency

The S7-200 was built to handle simple control tasks reliably and affordably. With its compact form factor, integrated digital and analog I/Os, and serial communication via PPI, it was ideal for machine builders, conveyor systems, and building automation.

Programming was done via STEP 7 MicroWIN—a user-friendly software tailored specifically for the S7-200. It enabled fast commissioning and was especially popular among vocational schools and SMEs.

Technical Highlights

• CPU models from 212 to 226 with up to 24 kB program memory
• Communication via PPI, MPI, Modbus RTU, Profibus (via expansion)
• Expandable with digital/analog modules, communication and positioning units
• Built-in real-time clock and PID control functions

Applications and Market Adoption

The S7-200 was deployed in millions of installations worldwide. Typical use cases included:

• Conveyor belts and packaging machines
• Pump and ventilation control
• Access systems and small production cells
• Training and education setups

Transition to the S7-1200

With the launch of the S7-1200 in 2009, Siemens began phasing out the S7-200. The new generation offered Ethernet communication, integrated safety and motion control, and full integration into the TIA Portal.

Still, the S7-200 remained in use for many years due to its reliability and large installed base. Official support ended in 2021, but Siemens continues to offer migration tools and conversion support for MicroWIN projects.

Why It Still Matters

Though no longer in production, the S7-200 remains active in many facilities. Spare parts are available through third-party suppliers, and the user community is still vibrant. For many engineers, it was their first PLC—and it still holds a place in their technical identity.

Conclusion

The Siemens S7-200 was more than a compact controller. It opened the door to simple, reliable automation and set global benchmarks. Its story proves that small systems can have a big impact.

Siemens S7-300 and S7-400 – The Modular Era

How modular PLCs became the backbone of industrial automation

Some systems don’t just set standards—they define entire generations. Siemens’ S7-300 and S7-400 are prime examples. Since their debut in the 1990s, these modular PLCs have shaped manufacturing processes, machine control, and plant architectures worldwide. Their scalability, reliability, and flexibility made them the heart of industrial automation—and the benchmark for competitors.

From S5 to a New Chapter

Following the success of the SIMATIC S5, Siemens knew the next generation had to be more powerful, flexible, and future-proof. The S7-300 and S7-400 introduced modular designs, easy expandability, and robust communication capabilities.

• S7-300: Compact, versatile, ideal for mid-range applications
• S7-400: High-performance, redundant-capable, built for complex systems

Technical Features

S7-300:

• CPU models from 312C to 319PN/DP
• Modular setup with central backplane bus
• Communication via MPI, Profibus, PROFINET
• Expandable with signal, function, and communication modules

S7-400:

• CPU models from 412 to 417H (high availability)
• Multi-channel communication and redundancy support
• Large memory and fast cycle times for complex processes
• Used in power plants, chemical facilities, airports

Applications and Market Adoption

The S7-300 became the standard for machine building, conveyor systems, packaging lines, and building control. The S7-400 was the preferred choice for large-scale plants, process control, and safety-critical environments.

• Automotive manufacturing
• Food and beverage industry
• Energy generation
• Water and wastewater treatment
• Infrastructure (tunnels, airports)

Role in the TIA Concept

With the TIA Portal (Totally Integrated Automation), Siemens created a unified engineering platform that included the S7-300 and S7-400. For the first time, users could configure PLCs, HMIs, drives, and safety systems in one environment—boosting efficiency and consistency.

Transition to the S7-1500

Since 2012, Siemens has gradually replaced the S7-300/400 with the S7-1500 series. The newer generation offers higher performance, integrated safety, and modern web diagnostics. Still, the S7-300/400 remains active in many plants due to its robustness and long lifecycle.

Siemens continues to provide support, spare parts, and migration paths. Transitioning typically involves project conversion via the TIA Portal and hardware adaptation.

Conclusion

Siemens S7-300 and S7-400 are more than just controllers—they’re industrial icons. Their legacy proves how well-designed technology can shape processes for decades. For many automation professionals, they remain the gold standard.

Siemens S7-1200 – Compact, Smart, Revolutionary

How a small controller redefined automation

When Siemens launched the SIMATIC S7-1200 in 2009, it marked a new chapter in compact automation. More than just a successor to the S7-200, the S7-1200 introduced a level of performance and flexibility that blurred the lines between entry-level and advanced control systems.

Beyond Compact

Designed from the ground up, the S7-1200 aimed to deliver a controller that was small enough for basic tasks yet powerful enough for demanding applications. Siemens adopted a modular architecture that could scale both in hardware and functionality.

Technical Highlights

• CPU models from 1211C to 1217C with up to 125 kB program memory
• Communication via PROFINET, Modbus TCP, MQTT, OPC UA
• Integrated safety functions with Failsafe CPUs
• Motion control for positioning and speed regulation
• Built-in web server for diagnostics and visualization

Applications and Market Reach

Now deployed in over 100 countries, the S7-1200 is one of the most widely used compact PLCs worldwide. Common applications include:

• Packaging machines
• Conveyor and sorting systems
• Pump and HVAC control
• Building automation
• Training and education setups

Integration with TIA Portal

The S7-1200 is fully integrated into Siemens’ TIA Portal ecosystem, enabling:

• Unified engineering with HMI and drives
• Advanced diagnostics with trace and watch tables
• Reusable code libraries
• Simulation with PLCSIM

Future-Proof and Migration-Friendly

As part of the Siemens Xcelerator platform, the S7-1200 continues to evolve. Siemens offers migration paths from the S7-200, including conversion tools and hardware adapters.

Conclusion

The Siemens S7-1200 is more than a compact PLC—it’s a flexible, intelligent automation system built for the demands of modern industry.

Siemens S7-1500 – A Platform for the Future

How a controller became the foundation for digital transformation

When Siemens introduced the SIMATIC S7-1500 in 2012, it wasn’t just a new PLC—it was a reimagining of industrial control. Designed for Industry 4.0 and digitalization, the S7-1500 combines classic automation with IT functionality, cybersecurity, and cloud connectivity. It’s more than a product—it’s a platform.

Performance Meets Integration

As the successor to the S7-300/400, the S7-1500 was built to exceed expectations in speed, diagnostics, and engineering comfort. Siemens introduced a new hardware design with integrated display diagnostics, unified form factor, and built-in safety features.

Technical Highlights

• CPU models from 1511C to 1518HF with up to 10 MB program memory
• Communication via PROFINET, OPC UA, MQTT, web server
• Integrated Failsafe functionality across all F-CPUs
• Advanced motion control with CAM profiles and sinusoidal interpolation
• Cybersecurity with TLS encryption, access control, and audit trails
• Diagnostics via display, trace function, and web interface

Applications and Industry Adoption

The S7-1500 is used across industries—from automotive and pharmaceuticals to energy. Typical applications include:

• High-speed machine control
• Process automation with safety requirements
• Robotics and axis coordination
• Edge-based data analysis and AI integration

Part of the Siemens Digital Ecosystem

As a core element of the Siemens Xcelerator platform, the S7-1500 connects directly to Industrial Edge, MindSphere, and other IIoT services, enabling:

• Real-time condition monitoring
• Predictive maintenance
• Cloud-based visualization and reporting
• Integration into digital engineering workflows

Migration and Longevity

Siemens offers comprehensive migration paths from S7-300/400 to S7-1500, including project conversion, hardware adapters, and training. The S7-1500 is built for long-term use, with lifecycle support, firmware updates, and Industrial Edge expansion.

Conclusion

The Siemens S7-1500 is more than a controller—it’s a future-ready platform for industrial intelligence.

Siemens S7-1200 G2 – The Next Generation of Compact Control

How the new S7-1200 G2 is reshaping the market

With the launch of the SIMATIC S7-1200 G2 in spring 2024, Siemens sent a clear message: the future of compact control is here—more powerful, more connected, and more intuitive than ever. The second generation of the popular S7-1200 series brings not only technical upgrades but also conceptual innovations that could redefine the automation landscape.

Designed for Performance, Connectivity, and Usability

The S7-1200 G2 targets OEMs, machine builders, and system integrators seeking compact solutions with high functionality and seamless integration. It’s fully embedded in the Siemens Xcelerator ecosystem and supports Industrial Edge, cloud connectivity, and modern diagnostics.

Technical Highlights

• CPU models with up to 250 kB program memory and 1 MB data area
• Communication via PROFINET, OPC UA, MQTT, web server, CloudConnect
• Integrated failsafe functionality without extra licensing, certified to IEC 61508
• Motion control with CAM profile management and sinusoidal interpolation
• NFC interface for smartphone-based diagnostics
• Cybersecurity with TLS encryption, user management, and audit trail

Applications and Market Potential

The S7-1200 G2 is ideal for applications requiring high performance in a compact footprint. Typical use cases include:

• Packaging and filling machines
• Conveyor systems with axis coordination
• HVAC systems with safety requirements
• Building automation with cloud integration
• Mobile equipment and decentralized control units

Thanks to its integration with TIA Portal and Siemens Xcelerator, the G2 also supports digital twins, simulation, and virtual commissioning.

Part of the Siemens Ecosystem

The S7-1200 G2 is more than a hardware upgrade—it’s a strategic element in Siemens’ portfolio. It connects directly to Industrial Edge, MindSphere, and other IIoT services, enabling:

• Real-time condition monitoring
• Predictive maintenance powered by AI
• Cloud-based visualization and reporting
• Integration into digital engineering workflows

One standout feature is NFC diagnostics: technicians can access system data via smartphone—no laptop or software installation required. This saves time and simplifies service operations.

Migration and Future-Proofing

For existing S7-1200 users, Siemens offers smooth migration paths. The G2 is mechanically and electrically compatible, and TIA Portal projects can be reused directly. At the same time, the new generation introduces features previously exclusive to the S7-1500—a true leap forward.

With regular firmware updates, Edge extensions, and cloud integration, the S7-1200 G2 is built for long-term scalability and innovation.

Conclusion

The Siemens S7-1200 G2 isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a new chapter in compact automation. Its blend of performance, safety, and digital openness makes it the ideal solution for tomorrow’s connected production environments.