# Configuring the PLC Hardware

Configure the PLC A Programmable Logic Controller is a ruggedized computer that you can use for automating processes or even an entire production line. hardware with TIA Portal by following the below steps:

1. Launch TIA Portal, and create a new project.

2. Add the S7-1200 PLC to the project. To do so, double-click the Add new device on the left pane of the user interface, then select the correct PLC type, as shown below.

3. Double-click the Devices & networks on the left pane, select Network view on the top, then click the PLC CPU symbol. Select General on the bottom and click PROFINET interface. Set the IP address, subnet mask and gateway for the CPU as shown below.

   Note: Make sure that the PLC boots first and is on the network before powering up the vision system. If the vision system boots before the PLC is up, any static IP address setting on the vision system is changed to DHCP. This behavior is defined by the PROFINET specification.