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## Application Context
Both Siemens SINAMICS S120 and Yaskawa Sigma-7 are used in servo press applications. Here is a technical comparison for engineers specifying or maintaining servo press drives.
## Siemens SINAMICS S120
**Strengths:**
- Centralized multi-axis architecture: one CU320-2 controls multiple axes
- PROFINET/PROFIBUS integration: easy connection to Siemens PLCs
- Advanced safety functions: STO, SS1, SLS, SOS built-in
- Strong in European and Chinese press manufacturers
**Weaknesses:**
- Higher cost per axis
- More complex commissioning (STARTER/TIA Portal required)
- Larger cabinet footprint
## Yaskawa Sigma-7
**Strengths:**
- Simpler commissioning: SigmaWin+ auto-tuning works well for press loads
- Lower cost per axis
- 23-bit encoder: 8,388,608 pulses/rev (excellent resolution)
- Strong in Japanese and North American press manufacturers (Aida uses Yaskawa)
**Weaknesses:**
- Distributed architecture: each axis needs its own drive
- EtherCAT or MECHATROLINK-III required for multi-axis sync
- Less integrated safety compared to S120
## Key Specs Comparison
| Feature | S120 | Sigma-7 |
|---------|------|----------|
| Max current | Up to 1200A | Up to 400A |
| Encoder | 20-bit | 23-bit |
| Bus | PROFINET | MECHATROLINK-III |
| Auto-tune | Manual | Automatic |
## Recommendation
S120: choose if your press uses Siemens PLC, you need centralized multi-axis control, or you are in Europe.
Sigma-7: choose if you need simpler maintenance, lower cost, or your press is Aida/Komatsu brand.